In 1993, a young Brazilian man, Royce Gracie, would shock the world by dominating the first UFC event as the smallest man in the bracket. Back then, UFC had no weight classes and was fought tournament style. The world watched in confusion and awe as Gracie dispatched giant after giant. His fighting style was the never before seen Brazilian Jiujitsu and to this day it remains a prerequisite for all whom wish to compete in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts.

Brazilian Jiujitsu, or BJJ, is as gentle and therapeutic as it is efficiently dangerous. A pure grappling art that involves no hard striking, BJJ is safe to practice for all ages and body types. People from all walks of life enjoy the art’s numerous health and psychological benefits as well as the friendships they form. Practitioners agree that it is one of the most effective fighting system they have studied and many cite positive transformative experiences after several years of training.

There are lessons and philosophies behind what makes BJJ so deadly yet so nurturing. As a current blue belt, I have found ways to apply these lessons to my larger life as a whole. Also as a recent college graduate at UCSB, I naturally run into many activists whom wish to change the world for better. Some of these exchanges were pleasantly eye opening. Other times…not so much. Either way, I feel that the larger life lessons of Brazilian Jiujitsu can benefit these altruistic champions and their respective campaigns. Without further ado, I present the 12 Lessons of Brazilian Jiujitsu for those whom want to save the world: