Taekwondo is practiced for as many reasons as there are people doing it. Some people are interested in only the self-defence aspect, while others like the physical challenges the moves present. Whatever the reasons for taking up Taekwondo, people find that the benefits exceed their initial expectations. All it takes, according to Taekwondoworld.net, is a one-hour session twice a week, for you to experience an improvement in all areas of your life.
Along with the physical health benefits, practitioners experience a renewed respect for life. Consideration for others is one of the core facets of Taekwondo. As those practicing the art grow and increase their awareness of self, they learn that they can impact positively on the lives of others by changing their attitudes and perceptions. They learn that while they can’t control other people or world events, through selflessness and generosity, they may be able to subtly effect positive changes in the world around them.
The demand placed on practitioners, by the art itself as well as by their instructors, increases self-discipline. In the real world this translates into a higher work ethic and acknowledgement of responsibilities. There is a greater sense of accountability, and the realisation of martial arts goals motivates people to set more goals in their work and professional lives. As more is achieved, the desire to achieve grows. This initiates a healthy cycle of ambition and reward.
The primary purpose of Taekwondo is to enable the strong to defend the weak. It’s expected that they will stand against oppression and prejudice and lead by example with a keen sense of justice and appreciation for the gift of life. In this way, practitioners contribute to creating a peaceful and meaningful existence for all.
While those who take part in Taekwondo are encouraged to improve all the time and strive for perfection, they also realise that perfection is impossible to attain. This results in a reduction in stress levels as they learn to appreciate the journey of life and shift their focus away from completing the journey as quickly as they can. The increased recognition of beauty and wonder has a significant impact on mood and temperament and can even be used to successfully combat depression.
Mental power receives a boost because learning new moves, techniques, and routines increases the rate of neuron firing and encourages neural growth in the brain. The benefits of this are felt well into old age. Practitioners retain their mental perspicacity and flexible thinking long after their peers have lost theirs.
The essence of Taekwondo philosophy, and the ultimate spiritual goal of all practitioners can probably best be summed up by Confucius, who said, “to promote the sense of morality one must treat others with faithfulness and sincerity based on righteousness, and to eliminate completely vicious thinking”.
By Sandy Cosser
www.amazines.com
Taekwondo for spiritual and moral upliftment
