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From What I Know

The Musings of a Karate Guy

Can Martial Arts Training Help with Depression?

9/26/2022

2 Comments

 
Picture

A while back I heard an expression that goes something like this:

Exercise is the best therapy that we don't want; and nutrition is the best prescription we don't want to fill.

I often say with a smile, but never joking, that "training is cheaper than therapy"; I've done the math.  There are quite a few studies out there on the benefits of training on mental health; particularly when training is used alongside other therapeutic plans.  I'll link some of those research studies below if you feel like nerding out like I often do.



Training has been shown to:
- alleviate stress
- reduce frustration
- improve self-esteem
- increase focus
- release "feel-good" chemicals 


While the studies show a benefit, my n=1 study confirms the findings.  I've got a long-standing battle with depression myself, and training regularly is actually part of my treatment plan.  The community.  The sweat.  The challenge.  The encouragement.  They all help produce feelings and hormones which help "steady the ship."

Of course, I'm not a doctor and will not give medical advice; I can only share what I've learned along my journey.

Be blessed! (oh...studies linked below:-)
​Sensei Bob

BMC Study
Moore, Dudley, and Woodcock
NIH Library

Prevention and Rehabilitation
2 Comments
Iris Smith link
12/21/2022 11:27:38 pm

It's great to hear that practicing martial arts has been proven to reduce stress and irritability. My sister enjoys Kobudo, but she is always so busy and stressed out at work that she cannot find the time. I'll advise her to enroll in Kobudo classes so she can set up a strict schedule for herself.

Reply
Jessie Holloway link
3/21/2023 03:43:12 pm

Thanks so much for pointing out that karate training has shown to improve self-esteem and reduce frustration which is great for your mental health! I have a friend who struggles with depression and they've been wanting to get into a physical hobby to help give them more routine in their life and reduce their symptoms. We'll have to look into finding a dojo that takes adult students so they can learn and help their mental health.

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