Contemplative practices come in various modalities from passive to active, with each form providing its very own brand of benefits. Drawing mandalas, guided meditation, cultivating mindfulness practices, engaging in Shinrin-Yoku, reading sacred scriptures, journalling, tarot card readings, dream interpretation, the list goes on…

I’ve been studying contemplative practices in an academic setting for several years and have had the opportunity to engage with many different forms to see what they might have to offer. Imagine my surprise when I found my leading source of contemplation in sports, of all things. I’ve been a martial artist for three years now, meaning I’m not an expert by any means, but I’m also not a complete rookie.

My main goal was to pick up a more physical hobby to balance out all the cognitive and emotional work I do in my day-to-day work. Jiu-jitsu was meant to be a hobby, something just for fun to “get into my body” a few times every week. Yet over the years, I noticed something peculiar was happening with my training. When I entered the dojo, I would completely shed the day’s worries and responsibilities.

My roles were peeled off as I changed out of my clothes and into my Gi. When my feet padded onto the soft mats my mind was completely still because my only task was to listen to my sensei and execute the techniques for the next hour. I was completely tuned into the present moment; pain has a way of doing that, if you’re distracted, you’re likely to take a hit right on the chin. 

Before I knew it, class would be over and I would reverse the transition: change out of my gi, slip back into my clothes, bow out of the mats and return to my day-to-day grind. Yet there was something more, I would find myself making connections between my mind and my body. Connections between the physical practice, and the contemplative studies I immerse myself in my day to day. Jiu-jitsu gave me a tangible and practical canvas to visualize and integrate insights in a way that passive contemplation could not provide.

As a part of PSYKEON, I’ll be sharing series of blog posts with you to outline some of the insights I’ve picked up along the way during my training. Even though these insights were born out of the practice of jiu-jitsu, I strongly believe they are transposable to the challenges of day-to-day life. You don’t need to be a martial artist, or even into sports to glean something from this series. You will find that these tips can be applied in several different dimensions of life. This series will include insights about interpersonal relationships, friendship, goal setting, overcoming adversity, tolerating discomfort and finding meaning throughout the journey (no matter what your journey might be).

Oss

Hekate of Psykeon

Glossary

Dojo: martial arts school

Gi: uniform

Jiu: gentle / Jitsu: style, technique

Oss (versatile term): formal yes, sign of respect, greeting, motivational exclamation to express perseverance and determination, acknowledgment of opponent’s skill and confirming information.