Tatami Therapy

Mat Therapy 2.0

Photo: Stefan Kocev

I’ve previously written about the therapeutic benefits of training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Mat Therapy 1.0). You enter a different realm when you step onto the mat in any martial school, gym or garage. The Japanese term Dojo means ‘place of the way’.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Garage

Mat time is where you develop your muscle memory. Focused time and effort allow you to bear the fruits of your labour. Tatami (畳) are types of mats used as flooring material in traditional Japanese-style rooms. Tatami Fightwear is also one of the most established BJJ brands in the UK.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has provided me with a place and a way to escape, focus, trust and grow. Amidst the hectic pace of modern-day life, BJJ frequently provides me with ‘Tatami Therapy’

There are numerous physical and psychological benefits from training BJJ (or any martial art for that matter). But perhaps the biggest connection I have found between therapy and BJJ is the aspects of mindfulness.

On the mat, you must be in the moment; work, family, stresses, and problems, all disappear when your partner/opponent is attempting to choke or lock you to the point of unconsciousness or submission.

“Tap, Snap or Nap”

Through ‘Tatami Therapy’ you can find so much about your strengths and weaknesses in the art. But perhaps more importantly, you can learn about the power of your mind.

In 2000, Renzo Gracie went to battle against the Japanese catch wrestler Kazushi Sakuraba. Renzo was caught in a kimura during their epic ‘Pride 10’ fight, seconds away from potential victory. Refusing to tap, Renzo suffered a dislocated elbow.

It was an unforgettable day. Sometimes defeat teaches you better than victory. 

- Renzo Gracie

Through adversity, ‘Tatami Therapy’ allows many individuals to reflect and develop. For me, the ‘gentle art’ possesses a humbling nature, which all at some point (in fact frequently) must submit. BJJ is synonymous with chess, indeed — ‘you must think first before you move’

(Artwork: Meerkatsu)

Just like any therapeutic experience, there are times when it may be tough to face some painful truths and feel like you don’t want to step back on the mat.

Your fears. Your insecurities. Your anxieties. Your sadness. Jiu-Jitsu will reach inside and rip them out.  - Saulo Ribeiro

But like anything worthwhile, you must invest. Ego can derail you, so be kind to yourself and choose your goals wisely. My journey on the mat, helps me explore my issues and gain a greater understanding of myself.

Tatami Therapy:

The process in which the practitioner (martial artist) hopes to gain from time spent on the mat, and effect beneficial change in self & others.

BJJ legend Jean Jacques Machado eloquently talks about living not just learning.

“Jiu-Jitsu starts when the training stops.” - Jean Jacques Machado

Leave it on the Mat

Clients who come to see me for counselling, frequently reflect on the benefits of leaving their worries in the room. By offloading their stresses and anxieties in a safe and confidential space, they are provided with a sense of relief and freedom.

When we train (particularly after a hard session sparring), we are encouraged to ‘leave it on the mat’. Some days that’s easier than others, but one thing I have come to realise, is that we all experience it. Young and old, through the ranks, hobbyist to world champions. From my observation and studies, it appears those who traverse the tatami the best, are those who can let go. And by letting go, I don’t mean giving up or not caring, but rather not becoming too attached.

The mat doesn't lie, embrace the truth.