Kendo increased my courage

by Stella
(Indonesia)

I was a social anxiety person. I'm feeling awkward when I need to talk in front of the class and talking to the people I haven't met before, even introducing myself.


When I was practicing kendo for the first time, I was taught to be brave in front of my partner. I need to do kiai in front of him for the first time, and I feel so awkward. But sensei always says "that is ok, don't feel embarrassed, afraid, or anything, just scream!"

Then I did it and it relieves my doubts and stresses. The next day, when I need to do a presentation, I feel nothing but calm and confident, which is very unusual.

I spoke well even though I haven't prepared the material, answering questions well, not saying "uhhh" or silenced in a long period. That's very different.

I'm sorry for my bad grammar; I'm not an English speaker.

Kendo-Guide.Com: Alright! Thank you for sharing! That is great!! Keep up the good work!!

Comments for Kendo increased my courage

Average Rating starstarstarstar

Click here to add your own comments

Sep 10, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstar 		I made a similar point
by: Thomas Sluyter

Interestingly I made a similar point in my recent article for Kendo World #6.4. In this article ("Living with shikai") I discuss general anxiety disorder (GAD) and it's workings with kendo. Both how it affects myself and GAD sufferers, but also how kendo has helped me along.

Kendo-Guide.Com: Thank you for sharing that! And everyone should get Kendo World Magazine!

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Benefits of Kendo.

Show / Hide