In Depth Martial Art Aspects
- Part 4 -
Dr. Hanjabam Barun Sharma *
Martial art has also an intimate relationship with herbal science, physiotherapic practices and nutrition. Kalarippayattu gurus are well-versed in the practice of massage & Ayurvedic medicine; so are Thang-ta gurus/ojas.
Ginseng or man-root (an oriental herb) is used as a Chi tonic. Red ginseng supplements a man's Yang energy, while white ginseng, Yin energy.
The oriental martial art masters utilize their Ki knowledge for Shinjutsu (acupuncture), and Seiho (a combination of finger pressure & massage).
In traditional Kung-fu training, eating etiquette is also another important aspect considered. The Sumo fighters are fed with specially prepared meals. It is said that 'chop stick' is the favorite weapon of a Kung-fu master.
Martial art has profound health enhancing effects. The coordinated movements of the art activate both cerebral hemispheres, creating new nerve-nets, which are essence of learning process, and also the complexity of such movements demand instance central nervous system mobilization along with other systems.
Also there occurs the production of neurotrophins, enhancing the growth of nerve cells. Activities of muscles & joints help blood and lymphatic circulation, and reduce ecchymosis. Regular cardiovascular exercises regulate blood pressure & cholesterol.
Control of weight reduces the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases etc; whereas weight bearing exercises reduce the risk of osteoporosis & fractures.
Breathing exercises are beneficial in preserving lung elasticity, preventing hardening of the rib cartilages & enhancing lung ventilation capacity.
It reduces the effect of ageing on the heart, muscles, joints & even brain; and reduces the effects of injuries to muscles, tendons & joints from daily wear and tear. Stretching exercises increase the elastic capacity of muscles and increase the flexibility of ligaments & tendons.
Exercises in aged arteriosclerosed patients increase the albumin content, decrease globulin & cholesterol content in their blood, and greatly alleviate the symptoms of arterosclerosis.
Exercises prevent and even cure illnesses of digestive systems in motion, secretion & assimilation which arise from nervous functional disorders.
It is also greatly helpful in preventing and treating mental disorders and illnesses. It improves mood, & the 'feel good factor' boosts the immune system, & the calming effect on stress due to release of endorphins.
Self-defense is another important aspect taught in all styles. The ability to survive is the most valuable thing we get from it. Martial art makes you aware not only of techniques, but options as well. Options result consequences.
Also martial art is a great confident booster, & helps in conquering as well as controlling any & all fears created by the world around us, or by our own minds, with the power of the mind itself.
Martial artist know certain vital, target points in the body, which are the most vulnerable to hit. This knowledge is specially helpful in self-defense by women or children etc against a stronger, longer, & faster attackers.
Such points are called "Atemi" (in Jujutsu), or "Kyusho" (in Karate), and they are:
- Eyes,
- Throat,
- Mastoid process,
- Solar plexus,
- Ribs,
- Edge of rib,
- Groin,
- Knee,
- Shin,
- Ankle etc.
To be continued.....
* Dr. Hanjabam Barun Sharma is a regular contributor to e-pao.net .
He is at Martial Art & Combat Sports Club (MACC), Raipur (C.G.) also Secretary, Raipur Taekwondo Vikash Samiti, Raipur(C.G.).
The writer can be contacted at wang_fei03(at)rediffmail(dot)com
This article was webcasted on November 15, 2008.
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