Kempo Essay: Sara

When I started Kempo, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was looking to try something different, a new challenge. I found that, and more.

Kempo has improved my physical well being drastically. Before I started Kempo, I was constantly hindered and immobilized by chronic neck and back pain due to Degenerative Disk Disease. Kempo has been, hands down, more successful in managing this pain than both physical therapy and a chiropractor. The pain is now much less frequent and the (non-good) soreness much less severe than before I started Kempo. My goal is to continue working towards being as pain free as possible.

Beyond decreasing my neck pain, Kempo has improved my overall physical fitness. Before Kempo, I had a hard time motivating myself to do the same old boring workout routine everyday. However, Kempo offers something new every class. Every day presents a new challenge to overcome, a new lesson to learn, and I barely notice that I’ve worked up a sweat while practicing and training. Alongside strength and stamina, better balance and flexibilty are key physical traits that I am constantly looking to develop. I would also like to improve the speed and efficiency of my movements (Kempo-related or otherwise), while also maintaining control of my body.

Over the last few months, I’ve found myself much more mindful and mentally peaceful. For example, if something isn’t going well or how I would like, I find myself not being frustrated or upset, but much more patient, relaxed, and able to accept that which I cannot change. I have become much better at not dwelling on the past and not thinking anxiously about the future. I attribute much of this personal growth to Kempo. Kempo has taught me that if I can’t do something today, with some hard work, I have a good chance of being able to do it tomorrow, or in a month, or a few years from now.

I am striving to continuously improve my mindfulness. Kempo is a great aid towards this goal. Each class offers an opportunity to escape any stresses and concentrate on my training. It is also great practice for improving my focus and mindfulness outside the dojo.