Various scientific studies confirm the effectiveness of the ancient techniques of martial arts in emotional, cognitive, and overall health. Significantly, a growing number of people are also choosing martial arts for healing from various psychological and physiological disorders.
According to Dr Ritesh Reddy, a psychoanalyst and founder of Institute of Combat Studies (ICS) in Bengaluru, Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do (JKD) is a modern, scientific combat arts that helps improve musculoskeletal fitness, neuromuscular coordination and functioning of the endocrine system that regulates metabolism, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep and mood, among other things. He explains that "the holistic nature of JKD brings the body, mind, and spirit in harmony. With the individual's natural ability to heal thus upgraded, they are better able to respond to the modern medicinal treatment, if there are any".
Mumbai-based Sahil Attar, a trainer at the Shaolin Temple India, informs that the 'Yi' aspect of the Shaolin Temple, directly deals with the healing of illnesses. "Shaolin Temple has three main elements: Chan, based on Chan philosophy; Wu, the science of martial arts, also known as Shaolin Kungfu; and Yi, Chinese medicine." Only a Shifu (master) is authorised to heal through the methods of Yi.
The underlying principle of martial arts' methods of healing is that all emotional and physiological inadequacies reflect in bodily sensations, which can then be repaired through an entire range of motion and contemplation.
Dr Reddy says that as an individual goes through their practice, "their aggression is increased to help them deal with the troubles of modern life, while simultaneously, they are schooled in compassion and kindness to help them heal".
JKD has benefited students suffering from all sorts of chronic and acute issues including serious injuries such as ACL tears and slipped discs.
For 37-year-old avionics and software engineer Prithvi Krishnamurthy from Bengaluru, JKD almost cured him of severe asthma. Lung exercises and strenuous workouts improved his condition and eventually helped him get off steroid medication.
Similarly, 24-year-old Delhi-based Mohit Sharma found that Shaolin helped him kick the bottle. "I had an alcohol addiction for four years. Determination and discipline that Shaolin instilled in me helped me," he says.
Box - Timely results
With regular practise, results (health benefits) are noticeable within the first month, though complete recovery varies from person to person. The average time needed for any catharsis is at least three months of training, a few times a week, say martial arts masters.
