“Kickboxing
and Boxing Improved My Mental Health”
www.empowerher.com ; written by Rheyanne Weaver
This past week
the world mourned Robin Williams and became a little more aware of depression
and mental illness. The subject is
“trending” and almost every other facebook post is a quote from the famous
comedian/ actor. My guess is that people
are asking, “How could someone so funny and full of life be that
desperate?” The answer may be that
mental illness is just that~ an illness.
Like any other illness, cardiovascular exercise can improve
symptoms. This month, in honor of Robin,
I researched how kickboxing can improve mental health.
The article
I read is written by a kickboxing student who found that through kickboxing,
she felt relief of depression and anxiety.
She cites that she not only feels better about herself, but has
benefited from less overall physical health problems through kickboxing. Punching and kicking is a great way to
relieve negative emotions such as anger, frustration, irritability, stress in a
healthy, positive outlet. Losing weight
and gaining physical strength is an added bonus. Instead of a downward spiral common with
negative thinking and depression, kickboxing gives a mental boost and builds
confidence. It also fuels motivation
which counteracts depression. Each class
gives a sense of accomplishment as well as being fun. Both are good for fighting mental
illness. Learning new skills and meeting
new people are also benefits of kickboxing.
By learning new skills, a student is exercising their mind~ occupying it
with something positive. Being a part of
a class provides the opportunity to socialize/ build relationships that also
counteract the loneliness and isolation associated with depression.
The author, a woman, also cites that by doing
a traditionally “masculine” workout, she is empowered and feels strong and able
to defend herself.
Again, this
counteracts feelings of helplessness.
Having a trainer to encourage and push her, gave her very satisfying
results.
Although I
was saddened to hear of Robin Williams' struggles, I think it can be an
opportunity to take a serious look at safeguarding mental health. Sometimes, we can get too focused on losing
weight or another physical goal. It is
important to be aware of one’s own mental health and taking care of it. Kickboxing has so many benefits~ It’s good
for body, mind and soul. Most people are
aware that exercise lowers blood pressure and is good for arthritis and
diabetes. The cardiovascular benefits in
kickboxing are also that feel-good chemicals are released in the brain. For those suffering from anxiety and
depression, kickboxing can be a healthy alternative for coping. Instead of retreating into self, kickboxing
class is an opportunity to socialize with others. It’s also a distraction that stops the cycle
of negative thinking for a time.
The
calming effect after kickboxing is felt throughout the day; enabling a person
to think and process more clearly.
This
month, I’m choosing to honor Robin Williams' memory by having this
awareness.
Written By: Kerry Carron Kickboxing Instructor
Choe's
HapKiDo Karate of Flowery Branch
7380 Spout Springs Rd
Flowery Branch, Braselton, Buford, Hamilton Mill 30542
(770) 967-1700
