Breathe - A Life In Flow

I recently restarted training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) so I decided to read this book from the fighter Rickson Gracie whose family invented the sport.

The memoir covers how Rickson’s father and uncles developed BJJ, his own fighting career, and the mental side of combat, offering valuable life lessons beyond the fights themselves.

Fighting Is Also A Mental Sport

Rickson's first big vale tudo (no rules) fight was against the then undefeated King Zulu. After a rough first round, his father calmed him, helping him win in the second round. My favourite quote from Rickson is after this fight:

My insecure mind came from the fear of losing. If you fear something that has not even happened then quitting becomes a form of self-protection.

Ego Will Limit You

After a seminar in France Rickson selected the 30 toughest looking attendees for a sparring match. He saved a particularly rude character for last, who turned out to be an olympic Judo player, defeating him in less than 10 seconds.

This story highlights a common theme throughout the book and in BJJ (and is why I like training the sport): it pays off to be humble. Keeping an open mind helps you learn things and keep improving.

Oss.