Practicing martial arts can actually support and even
boost our brain function. The physical
techniques we practice on a regular basis helped integrate the right and left
hemispheres of our brain. “The cooperation
between our two brain hemispheres is essential for us to learn better, function
more intelligently, and become proficient in anything.” [Ref. 1]
I will describe the various movements that forces both
hemispheres of the brain to communicate which increases the use of those neural
pathways which in turn improves our brain functions. And note that some of the examples I list below
could be in several categories.
1. Cross-lateral
Movements
Cross-lateral movements are working both sides of the
body at the same time with alternating patterns. Basic techniques in attack stance and side
medium block are examples of cross-lateral movement.
2. Crossing
mid-line
Crossing the midline is any movement where a part of
your body (i.e., hands, feet, arm, leg, etc.) crosses the mid-line of the body.
Basic cat stance, high block, low block,
double knife hands across the body, augmented medium block, extended knife
hand, hook punch, downward or upward ‘X’ block, crescent kick across the body, cross
block are all examples of techniques we practice that cross the mid-line. In fact, if you analyze Mepojan One, almost
every technique crosses the mid-line.
3. Asymmetrical
or mismatched movements
Asymmetrical movements are when your limbs perform
different movements at the same time. “This
could be the legs, or arms, or three limbs, or four limbs simultaneously moving
differently in shape, motion and pace to the other.” [Ref. 2] Examples of this are
combination medium block/ high block to side of the head, combination low block/medium
block, knife hand high block/ knife hand strike, combination outward hammer fist
/ hook punch to name just a few.
4. Variations
When combining something familiar with something not
as familiar we are forcing the connection. “The left brain is better with familiar
movements, but the right brain is better with new things, so by combining
familiar and new you are encouraging your hemispheres to cooperate.” [Ref. 1]. Mirroring hyung, different stances with
different upper body techniques that are not the basics, altering the hyung
with different combinations are all examples of variations.
Therefore, the more we practice martial arts, the more
we are increasing the communication across our brain hemispheres which will improve
our brain function. “This increased
communication has been linked to improvements in a wide range of cognitive
functions, including memory, attention, and creativity.” [Ref. 3]
Regards,
Kelly
“Learning a technique is not the end in
itself, it merely indicates where you need to start.” ~ Masaaki Hatsumi (1931 –
present), founder of the Bujinkan Organization
References:
1. https://sequencewiz.org/2014/08/13/integrating-right-and-left-brain/,
accessed 9/2/12024
2. Cross
Lateral Movements in Tai Chi and Qigong Practice (earthbalance-taichi.com),
accessed 9/21/24
3. Cross-Lateral
Exercises: The Science Behind their Brain Boosting Benefits (wyllowfranklin.ca),
accessed 9/21/24
