The Benefits of Budo for the Mind and Body: From a Well-being Perspective

日本語

Recently, at the karate class I teach at a cultural school, two students passed their second and eighth kyu exams.

The joy and celebration that spread throughout the dojo was heartwarming.

In karate training, there is also a training method that intentionally involves ‘moving slowly.’

The benefits of this are as follows:

1. In order to avoid kicking the floor as much as possible, it is necessary to make effective use of the core muscles.
2. It teaches the rational sequence of movements required to exert force, enhancing awareness of each part of the body.
3. By synchronising breathing with movement, it eliminates unnecessary tension in the body and improves concentration.

This ‘moving slowly’ technique can be practised by everyone from beginners to advanced practitioners, including the elderly, and supports the universal value of training itself.

By continuing training, you can not only maintain physical health but also deepen bonds with peers and strengthen social connections.

This is truly the form of well-being where mind and body are united.

I believe that the value provided Budo goes beyond mere technical improvement.