Mental Health and Martial Arts

[evmdimples]

I'm reminded that the practice of martial arts/meditation seemed to have a huge positive impact on my now ex-gf who had a host of emotional disorders, BPD being the most prevalent. Unfortunately her work scheduled changed and she had to stop. Noticeable difference, in a negative way! I am wondering if anyone else has made this correlation? I am certain that it's because of the mindfulness of the practice, it brings awareness of the mind/body into the here and now. Between the controlled physical aspect of the practice and the mental exercise (learning the philosophy behind the practice) that all seemed to bring an incredible amount of peace to her, she seemed a lot calmer and focused on the positives vs. the negatives. Even her angry outbursts became history. Anyone else have knowledge/experience with this? I think the practice of mindfulness, however it is achieved, is such an essential tool in my own recovery process and now i'm thinking it might be a good tool for mental health. Thoughts? I'm posting this under the mental health threads as well.

[sweetlikesugar]

In my own experience, when I was still playing Judo, I felt less stressed; therefore, more focused and less likely to get angry fits. I stopped, though (due to injury). I just work out in a gym now and I participate in yoga classes when I chance upon them in the gym I'm part of.