Sometimes we’re conscious, other times we are blissfully unaware of the changes that are happening. I’ve been setting myself some new challenges which include increasing my overall fitness and returning to BJJ competitions. I signed up for a comp in May, but unfortunately, I couldn’t get matched up, despite the small setback, I’ve still managed to lose a few pounds and started to develop my Jiu-Jitsu game. Signing up for a couple more comps later in the year means I’ll stay focused and maintain the progress already made.
Investing the Time
If we want to develop or progress, we are often reminded that we have to invest time and effort before we see the benefits. What is often neglected or misinterpreted, is that those benefits might not come in the form we expect or initially desire. Yes of course it’s nice to win matches and competitions, but success and rewards can be found in the most unusual places.
Through my training sessions, I have learned the value of social interaction, and camaraderie and made several new friends on and off the mats. At the beginning of a ‘roll’ (spar), we hand slap & fist bump, then attempt to control, break and choke each other. Whilst training, there is mutual respect and unspoken agreement that it’s friendly competition but not personal. You always protect your partner and adhere to the rules of the sport.
Over the weekend, I had the privilege of visiting Rick Young affiliated/sister club PranaBJJ. I’ve known and trained with the Head Coach JK for many years, beyond being a phenomenal martial artist, John is a true ‘warrior-gentleman’. Along with Craig and the rest of the team, PranaBJJ is bringing a unique brand of martial arts and personal development. The club has been running for a couple of years now, so the visit was overdue. In hindsight, I think the comfort and familiarity of my club stopped me from dropping by. When I arrived to train on Saturday morning, I noticed a tinge of anxiety. I was going to be the newbie. I knew John and Craig, but what was the vibe and the energy going to be like? Of course, it was great, I was welcomed with open arms (and under hooks). The session was exploring spider guards and triangles, which is not something I incorporate a lot in my current game. We did some positional rolls, and then a couple rounds of open sparring. I enjoyed the training (special thanks to ‘Judo’ Colin and fellow ‘purple’ Steve) and the new environment, which took me out of my comfort zone. What I was reminded of (which frequently occurs in BJJ), is that it’s good to be a little uncomfortable, that’s where the growth occurs.
Your training partners are the key to your progression. Take care of them, because without them you are nothing.
Not just in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but in many aspects of life, the ego can get in the way. Often it is the self that puts the pressure and unrealistic expectations in place. Where does this come from, and why? On reflection, I’ve come to a few conclusions. Much of my stress is rooted in my sense of worth, value and self-esteem. We all have an ego (it’s not the demon it’s often portrayed), and in my case, accepting that I must return to my internal locus of evaluation if I want significant changes to occur. The truth is, only I can bring my true happiness, growth and contentment into my existence. Still, I acknowledge, like so many of us, that seeking external validation is a common driver. I am learning to accept that balance is key to keeping on track.
Strategies
During periods of transition and uncertainty, I’ve found it useful to have strategies to manage and cope with the discomfort. The path can seem like an uphill struggle or a long bend on the track. Planning and preparation have been essential to my process of working through change. I’ve found a great deal of peace through breathing and meditation. In addition to the well-documented physical benefits, meditation has allowed me to stay calm, still the mind and reduce distractions. By identifying my feelings and emotions, I can find a clearer direction of where I want to go. Other outlets I frequently use, are exercise and music, these tools often help me decompress from the depths of life.
Evolving
The process of listening and observing the signals has allowed me to grow in several aspects of my life. Development of my health, nurturing my relationships and progression in career development all require self-reflection.
By stopping and observing what’s going on, I allow myself to become more aware. The utilisation of breathing and mindfulness has let me elevate and expand from various challenges and situations. This is not always easy, or simple in the moment, but when successful, it can help me to respond rather than merely react. It’s a work in progress, but what I have been experiencing, is that when my intention is aligned with my truth, the flow is far smoother. My actions occur with less struggle and the synchronicity of events and interactions appears unmistakably clear.
Life is a transition from one form to another. The life of this world is the material for a new form. - Leo Tolstoy