Systema To Reduce Tension
Systema, a form of Russian martial art, is a philosophy of
life focused upon reducing tension in all aspects of your life. It is not
directly obvious that any martial art would have application to medicine, but in
this case it does. The number of medical conditions that would be improved upon
if there was less tension in someone’s life is too numerous to count. And who
wouldn’t want less tension in their life or agree that having less tension would
improve quality of life?
According to Systema a key element in tension reduction is
breathing. Not just breathing per say but with Systema there is a different
focus on the quality, timing and intent of breathing. This is different from Yoga,
Pilates or other disciplines that focus on breathing. In through the nose (to
increase oxygen more quickly to the brain) and out through the mouth (to
facilitate the restoration of the rest of the body). At least as important is
movement, which is initiated by proper breathing technique. In fact, it is the
act of breathing that initiates quality of movement as opposed to the more common
perception that people breath more heavily after movement.
There is another important element in the foundation of Systema:
through breathing, movement and tension reduction one can reduce fear and start
to enjoy life every day. Clear your world, change your world and maybe change
the world. Naturally there are several exercises and situations that are
incorporated into Systema training for the ultimate purpose of self-defense however
with Systema the focus is more on performing with relaxation (no tension) right
from the start. It is not as important that you learn specific movements as
that you learn to perform all movements with relaxation.
Since that is not so easy to accomplish reducing tension has
to become a philosophy of life. Side effects include such as improved endurance,
balance, flexibility, self-esteem, and yes a sense of personal awareness that allows
you to defend if you ever happened to be in an uncomfortable situation. Since
so much of this is personal it is very important that you find a teacher who really
knows what they are doing.
Fortunately since reducing tension is one of the tenants of
Systema most certified instructors should be sensitive to individual
limitations and needs. That too is a real plus as it means that virtually
anyone can improve their quality of life by learning and practicing Systema.
Since reducing Total Load, the total number of things that do not allow someone
to be well, is key to any treatment program at Piedmont Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation,
we encourage anyone who wants to look at reducing tension in their life to
explore Systema.
Systema Greenville (systemagreenville.com)
