One of the best things a student can learn from the practice of the martial arts is the art of the response. When you look closely at the types of interpersonal crime being committed in Indianapolis you will find that it is based on poor choices being made in “the heat of the moment”. The issue isn’t that the people committing these “crimes of passion” are bad people; it’s just that they lack the self-control and training in using proper response needed to handle the situations in which they find themselves. Take steps today to make sure you don't fall the most dangerous weapon in the world - the "loaded tongue" - join your favorite local martial arts school!
Training in the martial arts can help you develop the skills you need to handle bad situations with grace and self-control. One of the key aspects of training in any martial art is the development of what is known as “automatic reflex”. This automatic reflex is different than an untrained reaction. To develop good automatic reflexes you must evolve through a few steps first.
Everyone starts out with the untrained reaction. This includes both verbal and physical reactions. These reactions are natural and often the worst possible thing that can be said or done. As Dr. Thompson, creator of Verbal Judo, says, “Take care not to make the greatest speech you’ll live to regret.” When you study any of the traditional martial arts you will be taught proper physical responses to attacks and bad situations and be retraining your natural, untrained reactions. This lesson in “think before you leap” will translate into your verbal reactions as well. You will begin to understand how to give consideration to your words and body language before saying something you will regret later. You will be learning that a response is far superior to a reaction and that the only real difference between the two is the act of thinking first. While you can read books and listen to speakers on this subject, being part of a martial arts school gives you the opportunity to practice these skills in a controlled and supportive environment.
As you progress in the art of your choice and deepen your understanding and physical skill you will begin to develop what your Instructor will call an “automatic reflex” to various attacks and situations such as falling or being tripped. You will have taken the next step in the evolution of your physical skills; your body will be able to respond on what seems like “automatic pilot” in self-defense. These actions, however fast and seemingly without thought, will still be superior to natural untrained reactions. The automatic reflex is a pre-programmed, pre-considered, thoughtful response. By honing those skills through practice the mind and body begin to work in harmony and your actions will require less thought in the “heat of battle”. The same evolution can be achieved in your verbal response patterns. As you learn how to respond more appropriately and practice those responses in the controlled environment of your martial arts school, the basic patterns and responses will become habit. You will be better “armed” to respond appropriately, such as applying Anger Management skills, with little or no delay and resolve issues without making things worse.
Training in the martial arts, especially the traditional arts, is about much more than simple physical skill. Learning the physical can lead you to develop better mental and verbal skills as well. Don’t miss out on all that training in the martial arts has to offer!
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