What happens when a world-class athlete shares her journey into the intricate domain of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? We find out as we chat with the incredible Sa'idah Zeinab Durkee, also known as the Ginja Ninja. With a brown belt to her name, Sa'idah's deep dive into the sport is more than just about acquiring the belt or winning competitions. It's about the transformative effect Jiu-Jitsu had on her overall health, the resilience she built, and the community she found.  She reveals how training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can transform your mental and physical and shares her personal journey to the sport, how it helped manage her autoimmune disease, and the inclusive, tight-knit community it provides.

"Jiu-Jitsu saved my life. It really is like human chess - you're constantly trying to get to checkmate." - Sa'idah Zeinab Durkee

The beauty of Jiu-Jitsu lies not only in its potential as a self-defense technique for all sizes but also in its capacity to build mental stamina and foster a sense of belonging. It's about the power of repetition in habit formation, the nerve-wracking excitement of competition, and the invaluable lessons learned on the mat. As we navigate the world of this male-dominated sport, Sa'idah offers strategies for success, particularly for women, in carving their niche and rising up the ranks.

The conversation doesn't stop at the physical and mental benefits of Jiu-Jitsu. We delve into how it becomes a touchpoint for human connection and a platform for community building. We hear about Sa'idah's role as a mentor, helping students navigate through these challenging pandemic times with online classes. From fostering confidence to providing a sense of community and acting as a form of self-defense, Sa'idah illustrates how Jiu-Jitsu transcends conventions, welcoming everyone from all ages, races, and occupations. If you've ever wondered about finding a Jiu Jitsu Academy and getting started in the sport, this episode is an absolute must.

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Sa'idah Zeinab Durkee feels privileged to coach people of all ages and backgrounds in Jiu-Jitsu, bringing them together as a community focused on mutual growth, care, and empowerment - connect with her here:

GinjaNinjaBJJ on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ginjaninjabjj/?hl=en

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