I never had any desire to practice martial arts until I was 25 years old. I randomly stumbled upon it and it changed my life forever. What I thought would make me strong and safe turned into something that gave me the tools to conquer anything I want to do in life…including parenting.
Parenting is one of the toughest but most rewarding things I will ever do. If I didn't have the tools that I learned from marital arts I really don't know what I would do. Patience, self-discipline, structure and respect are the best qualities a mom can have and my favorite tools for creating a positive environment for my children.
The most valuable thing I learned in Martial Arts was discipline — actually self-discipline. Self-discipline is the trait needed to accomplish your goals independently. When I stay focused on what’s most important to me and my family than I can be the kind of mom I want to be and not be distracted by things that don’t matter. I would venture to say that self-discipline is invaluable for relationships, school, work and even happiness.
Although there are many times that I forget to use these tools, 
I am able to be flexible and patient with myself to get back on track and be the type of parent I want to be. I am so thankful that marital arts has made me become a better mom and ultimately a better person.
Toni Langdon is a stay-at-home mom of two daughters and an in-home child care provider. She is a black belt in martial arts and has worked with Chester County, PA children with special needs. Visit her blog, Tickles and Time Outs.
