When you think of mortal combat, does the word art come to mind?

Probably not.

Martial arts are not only hard. They have an internal part, the softer part that develops roots in philosophical ideals often unknown to non martial artists. The fact that martial arts have two sides is an important reason why instructing children in the martial arts is a great idea.

Many parents worry that teaching their kids martial arts will make them more aggressive and more likely to fight. The opposite is actually true. And there is a fundamental reason why.

All martial arts have an external component and an internal component. Think of the Chinese yin-yang symbol which literally indicates that everything has an opposite. The earth has sky, fire has water, and good has evil.

What is referred to as external martial arts is what most people are familiar with. This is the action you enjoy on the movie screen and on television. It’s the sometimes violent or even deadly, hard hitting power that one can learn to use to overcome an opponent. But remember, that what you see on the screen is only what Hollywood deems glamorous.

A martial art is never, never taught only at its external, physical root. As with the yin-yang, the martial arts are surrounded by philosophical underpinnings of peace and harmony that form the internal, mental root. Specifically, internal martial arts study embraces the philosophy of Consequentialism or “right action.”

Consequentialism is a moral belief that producing the right kinds of consequences is one of the highest moral values a person can have. All actions result in consequences. Martial artists are taught that it is their duty to produce the right kinds of overall consequences, meaning bringing about the most good to the most people.

These principles involve recognition of others while developing greater personal patience and insight. Most martial arts began in the countries of Asia where Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism is rooted. The philosophical ideals of these belief systems permeate the martial arts.

An ancient Korean proverb states, “Peace within the individual brings peace within the family; peace in the family brings peace in the community; peace in the community, peace in the country and peace throughout the world.” as translated by author Doug Cook. It’s easy to understand the idea that choosing the “right action” can have a phenomenal affect to not just the individual but eventually the world.

The concept of “right action” is but one of the many philosophical ideals that make up the internal root of martial arts study. A student of martial arts learns many punches and blocks, stances and kicks that in combination sculpt a complete external picture. Equally important are the internal concepts that provide the framework for that sculpture.

Children who receive martial arts instruction learn the physical actions of self defense that build strength and increase flexibility. They become more confident and begin to absorb the philosophical ideals of good citizenship. As they learn to know the “right action” combined with this increased confidence, they become fundamentally better decision makers. It becomes apparent that defense is no longer a concern because they know how to avoid the situations that would need defending.

Suddenly, harmony around the globe doesn’t seem so far out of reach.