A Martial Arts-Informed Therapeutic Programme

Programme Title

🥋 Balance:

For emotional regulation, confidence, and voice-hearing support

🎯 Programme Overview

Balance is a 12-week, structured martial arts and mindfulness programme designed to:

• Reduce the impact of distressing auditory hallucinations
• Improve emotional self-regulation and body awareness
• Boost self-esteem, discipline, and self-efficacy
• Provide grounding, routine, and goal-setting via physical practice

Based on trauma-informed practice and adapted martial arts principles (non-contact), Balance is ideal for adults with schizophrenia, PTSD, depression, anxiety, autism, and substance misuse histories.

🧠 Why Martial Arts?

• Rhythmic movement helps calm nervous system dysregulation
• Structured sequences build routine and internal focus
• Breathwork & stances promote grounding in the present
• Discipline and progression offer measurable self-efficacy
• Group practice supports safe social connection

 

📋 Programme Structure (12 Weeks)

🔹Block 1: Grounding & Awareness (Weeks 1–4)

• Introduction to breathwork, stances, and safe body movements
• Learning how to “drop into the body” when overwhelmed
• Techniques for re-focusing attention away from intrusive voices

Outcome: Learner can use 3 grounding techniques when distressed

🔹 Block 2: Control & Expression (Weeks 5–8)

• Introduction to martial arts patterns (kata/kihon style drills)
• Using movement to manage frustration, sadness, and inner conflict
• Journaling how moods shift after movement sessions

Outcome: Learner reports improved ability to manage emotional outbursts or rumination using physical routines

🔹 Block 3: Power & Presence (Weeks 9–12)

• Personal power drills (confidence stance, voice projection, focus drills)
• Final pattern choreography (e.g. symbolic “breaking through fear”)
• Group reflection and celebration of journey

Outcome: Learner demonstrates increased confidence in posture, speech, and emotional self-awareness

👥

Target Group●

Adults aged 18+ with

• Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or hearing voices
• Trauma-related disorders (PTSD, complex trauma)
• Autism or learning disability with emotional regulation difficulties
• Depression, anxiety, or substance misuse history

🔁 Progression Pathways

• Transition to Step Forward (Latin Dance & Movement)
• Enrol in Step Up (Functional and Digital Skills)
• Become a peer mentor for new Balance cohorts

 

🛠 Delivery Format

• Group size: 4–6 learners per cohort (up to 2:1 for high needs)
• 1 x 90-minute session per week + optional 1:1 debrief
• Online or in-person (venue dependent)

Facilitated by trained martial arts instructor with MH/SEND training.

📊 Measurable Outcomes

● Reduction in frequency/intensity of distressing voices (self-reported)

● Increased confidence in posture, eye contact, and assertive speech

● Improved emotional vocabulary and use of self-regulation tools

Progress tracked via PEARL Awards and structured reflections

🔐 Safeguarding and Suitability

• All facilitators DBS checked and trained in trauma-informed practice
• Suitable for EHCP-funded, NEET, or supported housing residents
• Adaptations made for mobility, sensory needs, or neurodivergence

🧭 Optional Add-On (Balance Plus)

6–12 week mentored extension programme for learners who wish to:

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Deepen their martial arts practice

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Train in assistant coaching techniques

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Explore career options in fitness, wellbeing or peer support