How Do You Deal with Your Mental Health?
Mental health is finally getting the attention it deserves, but it’s still something many of us don’t check in on as often as we should. Recently, I had a meeting with a group of successful and long-standing dojo owners, discussing the different challenges we’re all facing. One senior instructor shared a heartbreaking story: a long-time student of hers, who had started training with her as a young child, recently took his own life at the age of 16. She never saw it coming, and it weighs heavily on her mind. This tragic event reminds us of the importance of mental health and the need to be open about what we’re going through—whether we're instructors, parents, or students.
Suicidal thoughts are serious, and addressing them requires understanding the source of those thoughts and emotions. Mental health is a cause close to my heart, thanks to my late friend Jason David Frank, known to many as Tommy, the original Green Mighty Morphin Power Ranger. Jason was a true Houstonian who owned three thriving dojos in our city. I first met him during my early days in media, interviewing voice actors, comic book artists, and stars at Comic-Con. We quickly became friends and stayed in touch over the years, even meeting for the last time at a Comic-Con in Scotland with some amazing talent like the cast of Sons of Anarchy and Jean-Claude Van Damme.
Months later, I got the news that Jason had passed away by suicide. He was a true hero, inspiring so many people to seek help, yet he ultimately faced his own battles. Many believe that losing his daughter to suicide earlier that year and a series of other hardships pushed him to a breaking point. His passing devastated his family, friends, students, and countless fans around the world. His legacy reminds us that our choices deeply affect those around us and that there are people who care about us, even when we feel alone.
To anyone struggling right now: You matter. Your life matters. Whatever you’re going through, know that you are not alone, even if it feels that way. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out—call a friend, a loved one, or reach out to us here at the Dragon Clan. We are here for you. Even if we don’t respond right away, just know that you still have one more day. Life can go from bad to worse quickly, but we have to remind ourselves—sometimes it’s even okay to tell ourselves a little lie—that there’s another day to get through it.
To everyone reading this: it’s okay not to have everything figured out. Sometimes, the best we can do is take things one step at a time. The first step is often self-forgiveness, for whatever pain or trauma you’re carrying. Your story isn’t over, and there’s always hope for a new beginning. You have one more day.
Break the Chains: Proven Steps to Fight Mental Stress and Find Real Connections
The alarming rise in suicide rates, especially among young people, highlights an urgent need for mental health support, community involvement, and healthier coping mechanisms. In 2021, suicide was the second-leading cause of death among 10-14 and 25-34-year-olds, with young people seeing a troubling increase in suicide rates over the past two decades. Comparatively, the suicide rate among men is approximately four times higher than for women, showing the intense toll of mental stress across demographics.
The Importance of Real-World Connections
Research underscores the value of community and real, in-person connections. Whether joining a local club, attending social events, or engaging with others in shared activities, these interactions can provide a strong foundation of support. Isolation, while increasingly common in our digital age, has been shown to exacerbate mental health issues, making it vital to stay engaged in community-oriented activities. Social interactions, especially those away from screens, have a lasting positive effect on mental well-being, countering the negative effects that excessive online consumption can have on emotional health.
Martial Arts as a Life-Changing Practice
Martial arts training offers transformative benefits for mental health. Studies indicate that physical activity, coupled with the discipline and focus required in martial arts, leads to better emotional resilience and stress management. The practice encourages community support and shared purpose, both essential for mental well-being. In fact, martial arts programs have seen countless success stories, where individuals found a renewed sense of purpose and connection, often describing it as life-saving.
For anyone interested, local martial arts gyms and even online programs offer supportive, goal-oriented environments. Joining a martial arts community can be a powerful step toward building meaningful relationships, strengthening mental resilience, and gaining a sense of belonging that’s especially valuable in today’s isolating world.
Avoiding Emotional Burnout
It’s crucial to recognize and avoid things that overstimulate the brain or trigger emotional burnout, such as excessive social media, constant news consumption, and other overstimulating digital interactions. Prioritizing real-life experiences and community can improve mental clarity and reduce stress. By focusing on genuine, face-to-face connections and healthy outlets like martial arts, you can build lasting resilience and a supportive network to navigate life’s challenges effectively.
Taking small steps to connect with others, nurture your mind, and avoid harmful digital habits can be profoundly impactful.
How Do I Know I Am Ready to Spar in Class?
Sparring is one of the most exciting and transformative parts of martial arts training, but it’s also one of the biggest milestones for any beginner. For new students, sparring represents a new level of physical and mental challenge, so it's natural to wonder, "When am I ready to spar in class?" While each martial arts school has its own guidelines, certain key indicators can help you gauge your readiness.
1. Solid Foundation in Basic Techniques
Before sparring, it’s crucial to have a good grasp of basic techniques, whether striking, blocking, grappling, or footwork.
Signs You’re Ready:
You can perform basic techniques with control and accuracy.
You understand defensive and offensive movements.
You can move fluidly between techniques without hesitation.
2. Understanding the Rules and Etiquette of Sparring
Sparring isn’t about going full-force or "winning"—it’s a controlled, respectful practice designed to help you and your partner improve.
Signs You’re Ready:
You know and understand your school’s sparring rules and boundaries.
You have practiced controlled movements without the intent to harm.
You respect your sparring partner’s limits.
3. Control Over Power and Speed
Learning to control force, move deliberately, and regulate speed ensures safety and effectiveness in sparring.
Signs You’re Ready:
You can adjust the force of your strikes based on your partner’s level.
You stay calm and measured in close quarters or intense moments.
You have practiced slow, controlled drills.
4. Basic Defensive Skills
Sparring is about both offense and defense. Being able to block, dodge, and evade strikes is essential.
Signs You’re Ready:
You can effectively block or evade basic strikes.
You remain composed under pressure.
You have practiced defensive movements and disengagement techniques.
5. Comfort with Physical Contact
Feeling comfortable with controlled exchanges and close-range movements is important.
Signs You’re Ready:
You are comfortable with controlled physical contact.
You stay calm when close to a partner.
You’ve practiced safe falling techniques.
6. Trust in Your Instructor’s Guidance
Your instructor has experience seeing students progress and will guide you accordingly.
Final Thoughts: Sparring is a skill in itself. If you have a solid foundation, control, and the right mindset, you’re ready to step into the ring and embrace the next stage of your martial arts journey.