From my experience, people can be remarkably genuine in the different settings of BJJ. During and after training, we share experiences that are difficult to fully understand unless you've been through them yourself.

We all know what it feels like to drive home after an open mat where we got tapped fifteen times. We know the satisfaction of finally pulling off a new move. And we know that, in order to get better, we have to challenge one another, even when that means getting humbled in the process.

These shared experiences create a particular kind of connection. We challenge each other, help each other improve and spend time together without necessarily needing much in common outside the gym. For many people, that sense of belonging is an important part of what keeps them coming back.

I've also heard people talk about the mental health benefits they associate with Jiu-Jitsu, particularly when it comes to loneliness, anxiety and stress. I remember hearing Theo Von and Joey Diaz discuss how good it felt to reconnect with people after the pandemic on a podcast. It made me think about how much we can take these everyday interactions for granted.

Going to training gives you a reason to leave the house, see familiar faces and share an experience with other people. Sometimes you have a great session; sometimes you get absolutely destroyed. Either way, you've shown up, spent time with others and become part of something beyond yourself.

I think that's one of the things worth appreciating about Jiu-Jitsu. Not just what happens on the mats, but the people who show up, the relationships that develop and the sense of belonging that can come with it.

And that's the part of Jiu-Jitsu I want BONSAE to document.