I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Eric Fisher shares a unique approach to combating addiction and mental health struggles using martial arts in the book “The Martial Art of Recovery.”

The Synopsis

Addiction has been given various explanations – some regard it as a choice, a habit, a disease, a moral failure, brought on by traumatic experiences, or a combination.

The Martial Art of Recovery offers a unique metaphorical approach to treating addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Techniques and concepts from American Kenpo, a martial arts style, intersect holistically with mental health and addiction treatment.

Striking self-sabotage begins with a single move.

The following is a brief summary of the book’s contents:

1. Sixty-six American Kenpo martial arts techniques translated for addiction treatment.
2. Ninety-eight martial arts terms have been translated and presented with practical examples to aid in addiction recovery.
3. Techniques from the American Kenpo martial arts style are translated into coping skills and strategies for anxiety, depression, and trauma.
4. A section that provides information, examples, and techniques related to the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual domains that play a role in the recovery process.
5. The “Five Swords” for addiction treatment and mental health.
6. How to view the addiction as “The Opponent.”
7. How to practically apply martial arts techniques and concepts in daily life.

The Review

For such a unique and creative new take on the battle of addiction and mental health, the author’s book felt both relatable and driven in a way that people familiar with the struggle should be able to relate to. The book’s title may seem to indicate that martial arts is the key component to this technique. Instead, the author does a great job of using martial arts as a creative mindset and viewpoint, focusing on mentally transforming these struggles into external forces that can be combatted. 

The book’s slow, steady pacing and the author’s inspirational writing will stay with readers long after it ends. The haunting reality of addiction and mental health is not shied away from, but instead harmoniously brought together with the authors’ unique way of bridging the gap between recovery and martial arts mindsets and training. The book tackles not just the physical but also the mental in a healthy way. It even takes on philosophical, psychological/medical aspects as well, exploring the impact of grief and how the brain itself can be mapped and explored in depth.

The Verdict

The expressive, entertaining way the author writes and the heartfelt message of hope that the author’s writing and techniques promise make this a truly compelling must-read nonfiction book. The way the author incorporates everything from different fighting techniques to the other belts that martial artists earn, and how he relates these to mental health awareness, as well as the at times light and empathetic way he uses his voice, will keep readers hanging on to every word. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Eric Fisher is a certified counsellor based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He has over 13 years of experience working in outpatient and inpatient treatment settings in the US and Canada. Eric is a master practitioner of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), both of which are evidence-based treatments for trauma. Eric’s private practice, Recovery Arts Counselling, serves individuals, couples, and families locally and remotely. He also works as an associate for local clinics in the surrounding area. In the past, Eric has supervised master’s-level graduate students and counsellors early in their careers. Additionally, Eric has a black belt in two martial arts styles: American Kenpo and Wadō-ryū. Eric enjoys hiking and riding his bike outdoors, trying new foods, travelling near and far, and meeting people.

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