Inspiration with Swords

 I first want to say that I am new to the Mythical Kommunity.  So I don't know if a blog is the best way to share this but here goes. I wanted to share a bit about Historic European Martial Arts (HEMA) and how it is helping me.  I think that historical study and sword play might be a interest to other mythical beasts out their.

  So a summery of what led to me finding out about HEMA. (I'm trying to keep this short) I found I had Multiple Sclerosis , I got to a point of being really out of shape and have symptoms that make it hard to work out. I deal with extreme fatigue, sensitivity to heat, and so on from MS besides being seriously obese.  I wanted to find a activity I could do at my own pace, something that would get me off the couch and moving.( while I still am able) Also studies have shown people with MS who are active are able to be active for longer, like with so many things in life the more healthy you are the better you function. I decided to get some wooden practice longswords to mess with in the back yard. Had ideas of maybe "sword fighting" with my brother or friends...playful like something we did as kids. I thought I should look on youtube for sword techniques or moves... I found that their was a whole world of people doing this to further degrees then I ever knew of.

 I'm not talking about Renaissance fairs, this is the study and practice of weapon techniques from old treatise and sword manuals from centuries past...fencing but with Medieval weapons. I watched multiple videos of people sword fighting with longswords and even tournaments. started finding websites online which helped me find study groups in my area. I joined the Meyer Frei Fechter Guild (MFFG) a group that studies and practices techniques From Joachim Meyer's work in 1570. His work includes longsword, pole arms (halberds, staff , and spears ect), Dagger , wrestling moves, and Rapier.

 I have been reading and practicing the longsword techniques...it is great as a work out and even more of a cardio work out when doing free play bouts. Not only am I able to handle more activity then I had, it inspired me to quit smoking, start walking, and trying to eat healthier. It has become a great inspiration for me and has had many benefits: physical activity that is fun, Reading and study, also becoming part of a social group with great commradery.

 So Anyway I wanted to share this and see if other mythical beasts are into it as well or help them discover it.