15 basic Jiu-Jitsu principles for a happier and healthier lifestyle

We all know that Jiu-Jitsu is a powerful tool to make anyone’s life better and healthier.

Showing up to train is basic, but you can apply the BJJ lifestyle to your overall daily routine. If you do that, it’s certain that the results will come quicker and they will also be more profound.

So, here are 15 basic principles you should follow to get the most of the BJJ way of life.

1. It’s a beautiful day to die – Every day the samurai repeats this thought upon awakening. He will do his best to see if it doesn’t happen, but if you are always prepared for the worst, you will be better prepared to face whatever life throws your way.

2. “I’ve never had a headache” – Grandmaster Helio Gracie used to brag that he had never been sick his entire life. He would credit that to his rigorous dietary methods created by his brother Carlos. Healthy eating is one of the basis of the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle. Always prefer natural foods and avoid excess.

3. Work is not splitting stones – The essence of Jiu-Jitsu is to use the least force to the greatest effect. In the field of business, this principle means productivity, in life it means happiness.

4. Any exercise is better than no exercise at all – Injuries are a common thing in practitioners’ lives. However, few justify stopping exercising altogether. Rest the injured spot, but find other ways to keep the rest of your body in action.

5. A black belt is a white belt who never gave up – We’re sure you read that one many times. Consistency counts much more than talent in the long run. The worst feeling we can have in life is to wonder what we could have become if only we had applied ourselves more.

6. Diversify! – Even Jiu-Jitsu, when it becomes an obligation, can feel like a bore. Try to include other activities in your routine of training so you don’t feel worn out.

7. Don’t be a slave to the clock – Master Carlos Gracie Jr. is known for stopping whatever he is working on to go work out or train Jiu-Jitsu. Never allow yourself to skip doing what is good for you. Make time and have a good time.

8. Have enough money so it won’t be a problem for your quality of life – You don’t have to be rich, but should have a dignified life. The pursuit of survival should not get in the way of your lifestyle.

9. Love what you do and you won’t have to work a day in your life – Life is short, so you should not waste it with something that does not speak to your heart. Be creative and find a way to make a living out of one of your passions.

10. The horse to arrive early drinks the cleaner water – Don’t be late. It’s disrespectful to others and prevents you from taking the most of what life offers.

11. Never forsake meals – An empty bag cannot stand by itself, so be sure to eat properly and at the right interval. Whenever you skip a meal, you are hurting your own body for no reason.

12. Sleep is a priority – The body and the brain need at least 8 hours of quality sleep every day to recover and be at their best. Pulling all-nighters will only make life less productive.

13. Enjoy your family – Most of Jiu-Jitsu’s driving force in the early days in Brazil came from Helio’s and Carlos’ worry with the well being of their family. That same feeling has spread all over the world and the gentle art community is nothing but a huge global family today.

14. If you build, they will come – Be a good host! Be kind, generous and welcoming at your academy or your house. Invite others to experience what you know is a great way to live life.

15. Win with grace, lose with class – A pedantic winner has the same value of a sore loser. Welcome victory showing respect for your opponent and accept defeat and learn with your mistakes.