4 minute read
PUT UP YOUR DUX
Having a “Correct Spirit” in Martial Arts
By The Real Frank Dux
Most all martial artists are told that to study the martial arts correctly this journey depends on our developing the “correct spirit.”
Sadly, a vast majority of instructors when asked what they mean by “correct spirit” their explanation falls short with them conflating this with our having school spirit you’d experience a pep rally.
Having a correct spirit in the realm of martial arts is another way of describing our operating with Emotional Intelligence.
Having the correct spirit is merely having the ability to manage our emotions as we encounter the emotional tells of others.
There exist what I call the five elements by which to judge if one possesses or lacks “correct spirit” in the martial arts world.
1. Self-awareness - Be aware of your emotions in the moment as they impact your actions, reactions, and behavior Pay attention and take notice when your breathing, heart rate and any tensing in you occurs in response to anger frustration. Develop true selfconfidence by pressure testing yourself.
Strengthen your ability to remain calm in the face of great adversity
2 Self-regulation - Manage your emotions in stressful situations by maintaining a positive outlook Possess what military special operations forces call “the offensive mindset ” This is a proactive mindset.
Having it controls impulsive feelings and behaviors and empowers you to innovate, adapt, take the initiative as well as following through on commitments.
“Change yourself and you change the world” Frank Dux
3. Social awareness – be able to recognize nonverbal cues that others use to communicate; determine their emotional state and what is important to them.
Read the room.
4. Relationship management – Control your emotions, manage your relationships effectively.
This includes having the skills and capability of bonding with others, managing conflict, handling adverse group situations by acquiring skill sets needed in developing productive relationships.
The last but surely not the least trait to discover is probably the most important piece to the puzzle.
5. Empathy - Understanding the emotions, needs, and concerns of other people.
In conclusion, cultivating the correct spirit in both daily life and martial arts requires a deep commitment to personal growth and emotional intelligence.
Finding the inner peace and sustained true spirit in both your daily life and in your martial training can benefit you both mentally and physically.
Self-awareness, the foundation, enables you to understand your own emotions and motivations
Self-regulation helps you manage your impulses and maintain composure, especially in challenging situations.
Social awareness allows you to perceive and understand the emotions of others, fostering a compassionate and inclusive environment.
Relationship management emphasizes building and maintaining strong, healthy interactions with others
Lastly, empathy ensures you can connect with others on a deeper level, enhancing your personal and professional relationships
There is no ultimate guide for everyone to find peace and harmony within oneself. However, these five aforementioned concepts and practices can help you find a true peace that can move you to find the way that works for you
By integrating these five elements into your daily practices, you not only become a better martial artist but also a more balanced and harmonious individual
About the Author
Frank Dux is best known as the creative mind of the hit blockbuster films “Bloodsport” and “The Quest” He has written the book “The Secret Man,” Published by HarperCollins 1996.
He is currently Head of Family for the IFAA / Official Black Dragon Fighting Society and lectures and creates tactical solutions for law enforcement. As well as a source contributor to the US Navy SEAL Spec-War Manual K431-0097.
Frank is currently working on the finishing touches of his newest book, “Ninjas Are Bullshit ” A new enlightening account of the true origins and understanding of Ninjutsu and his involvement with the real history of its use
Frank Dux is a monthly columnist to International Martial Arts Magazine, where you can find his interesting perspective on the martial arts and the martial arts community
