Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey, football, and debating the news of the day. It’s mainly about gratitude. When I think about what I’m most thankful for, jujutsu tops the list every time. So, grab your leftovers and get cozy . Let's go on a journey of all the incredible things jujutsu has gifted me—and why I’d love to share them with you.
Philosophy: Finding Wisdom on the Mats
They say jujutsu is the gentle art, but if you’ve ever been caught in side control, it doesn’t feel so gentle. Yet, through those moments, deep truths come to the surface: Patience is powerful, small adjustments lead to big changes, and sometimes the only way out is through. It’s a philosophy that transcends the mats and seeps into everyday life. When life feels like it’s got a chokehold, remember to breathe, find the leverage, and escape with grace.
A Value Set to Live By
Respect, discipline, humility—jujutsu doesn’t just teach these values; it demands them. You can’t fake respect when your training partner is helping you learn, even if they’re also the reason your arm feels like a noodle. You can’t pretend to be humble when a 15-year-old white belt submits you (yes, it happens). And discipline? Well, that comes with showing up to class when Netflix and snacks sound far more appealing.
Spiritual Fulfillment: The Zen of Sparring
Some people meditate in quiet rooms. I find my zen in the lessons of sparring. There’s something spiritual about the flow of jujutsu—the way your mind and body sync, the dance of techniques and counters, the quiet moments of stillness. On the mats, I’ve found a deeper connection to myself, to others, and to something greater than all of us.
Physical Fulfillment: The Fountain of Youth (and Sore Muscles)
Jujutsu has expanded the gift of physical health. I’m stronger, more flexible, and more coordinated as i refine techniques. It’s like a cheat code for staying young—though let’s be honest, it also comes with the occasional bruises that make me look like I moonlight as a stunt double. But those are badges of honor, right?
Mental and Emotional Balance
If you’ve ever had a bad day, you know the mats have a magical way of resetting your brain. Jujutsu teaches you to focus under pressure, stay calm in tight spots, and let go of what you can’t control. It’s therapy, but with armbars. After every class, I leave with a clearer mind, a lighter heart, and the confidence to tackle whatever comes next.
A Solid Community
Jujutsu has brought incredible people into my life—my students are people who lift me up, laugh with me, and occasionally choke me out. Watching my students grow is one of the greatest joys of my life. I see them become more courageous, more confident, and more aware of their value as human beings. It’s like watching a flower bloom…except the flower can now execute a solid rear-naked choke.
Overcoming Life’s Obstacles
Life throws curveballs, but jujutsu teaches me to adapt, persevere, and sometimes just roll with it (pun intended). Whether it’s a tough spar or a tough day, I’ve learned that obstacles are opportunities in disguise. On the mats, I’ve failed more times than I can count, but I’ve also risen every single time. And that resilience is something I’m eternally grateful for.
Join Us on the Mats!
What Jiu-Jitsu Has Given Me? It's given me the joy to write this and ask If you’ve ever wondered what jujutsu could give you, why not find out? At Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, we’re building a community—a family of people who lift each other up and help each other grow.
We’d be thankful to have you join us on the mats. So, come roll with us, laugh with us, and discover everything you never knew you were capable of.
Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: jujutsu doesn’t just teach you how to defend yourself. It teaches you how to live in your own skin with confidence. And for that, I am endlessly grateful.
Ready to get started? Your first class is on us—because YOU are worth defending!
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Thought of the Moment: "The struggle ends where the gratitude begins." - Anonymous
What Jiu-Jitsu Has Given Me (and Why I’m Thankful Every Day)
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