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Exploring Kalaripayattu, a millennia-old martial art from Kerala
What's the story
Kalaripayattu, the millennia-old martial art from Kerala, India, is not just about self-defense.
It's a holistic way of life that improves your physical and mental well-being.
This art form combines strikes, kicks, grappling techniques, preset forms, weaponry, and healing methods.
Practicing its basic techniques can increase flexibility, agility, and mindfulness.
#1
The art of the warm-up
Before diving into the complex world of Kalaripayattu, warming up is crucial.
It begins with rhythmic exercises that increase circulation and prime the body for action.
The warm-up sequences target large muscle groups while incorporating breath control, fostering a sense of harmony between the mind and body.
This thoughtful approach to preparation establishes a solid foundation for the rest of the training session.
#2
Mastering animal postures
What sets Kalaripayattu apart is its emphasis on animal postures.
These postures go beyond mere imitation of animal movements - they are about channeling the essence and power of the animal itself.
Each animal posture, whether it's the graceful peacock or the agile tiger, targets different areas of physical fitness like balance, strength, and flexibility, all while sharpening mental focus.
#3
Weaponry as an extension of self
In its advanced stages, Kalaripayattu incorporates weaponry training. You learn to use sticks, swords, shields, and more.
This isn't just about learning to handle weapons, it's about understanding them as extensions of your own body.
It demands precision, control, and a heightened awareness of your surroundings.
These skills translate to everyday life, helping you maintain focus and calm under pressure.
#4
Healing techniques: The hidden gem
Kalaripayattu is unique as it emphasizes healing techniques in conjunction with combat training.
Students master massage techniques using medicinal herbal oils, which improve flexibility and accelerate injury recovery.
This fosters a profound reverence for the body as both a weapon and a temple, necessitating nurturing care.
It's not just a workout, it's a path to mind-body harmony, honoring ancient wisdom for physical and spiritual evolution.