Weekly Silambam: Traditional Martial Arts Class

Sri Saradha Devi Ashram has now begun its weekly Silambam class, a traditional martial arts practice. The class is conducted by Kelab Silambam Taman Sri on every Sundays at 3pm. 

Martial arts have become an important part of many people's lives, among both adults and children. Parents enroll their kids at schools to improve their focus and discipline. Many adults have made the practice of martial arts a way of life.

Why are the arts important and why do they play such a central role in the lives of so many? Let's have a glance through on the importance of practicing martial arts in our daily lives. 

1. It acts as a Self Defense

The most obvious reason why you should learn martial arts is that it teaches you how to defend yourself. It is undeniable that there is violence in the world. It occurs unexpectedly and without regard for who the victim is. Violence can affect all of us. It is important to be prepared for such occurrences and the crux of training is to learn fighting skills. Not only do you learn specific techniques, but you also develop toughness and stamina needed to endure a physical altercation. This knowledge and conditioning leads to other benefits besides just being equipped with techniques.

2.It Inspires Confidence

Because you can handle yourself physically, you begin to develop confidence in yourself and your capabilities. You walk taller with your head up, you're prepared, calm, and self-assured. You would be surprised at the change in your mental attitude after a decent sparring session at the dojo. You learn that you can endure, that you can apply real self-defense techniques, and that you are capable and strong.

3. It enhances focus and awareness

In training, you must be very aware of your actions and the people around you. You become more aware of your environment, which helps to keep you safe out in the world. This broadening of awareness is important in life. It can help in school, work, and in your relationships. It can generally help you navigate your way through life.

4. You Make Friends

It's an understatement to say that you make friends in martial arts. My experience is that your teacher and fellow students are family. Your instructor is more than just a teacher, he becomes a confidant, a father, and a counselor. Your friends at the dojo are part of your social circle, helping you through thick and thin. They become good people to have in your corner.

5. Reduces Stress the Right Way

There are plenty of bad ways to reduce stress and many of us have tried all of them. Martial arts offers a positive way to reduce stress. You direct your energy in a physical way that is beneficial and there is no doubt that hitting a punching bag is a great way to release pent up energy and stress.

6. Improves Health

Martial arts is a complete workout. You build stamina, strength, and flexibility. You also develop coordination and balance. You feel better physically as your body becomes stronger and more capable. You breathe better and blood flows to all the necessary parts of the body more freely. Martial arts is a fun way to stay in shape.

7. Improves Character

At the dojo, you learn respect, discipline, how to cooperate, and how to be humble. This is all part of perfecting your art. You work with your partners and learn from your instructor in a setting where bowing and handshakes are commonplace and helping each other is the norm. You must focus and be open to being corrected. You use criticism to improve yourself. The martial arts school is a great environment for learning the importance of perseverance and excellence.

And this is why many martial artists call their training a way of life. It permeates a person's life and creates solid relationships and a sense of justice and respect.