Ninja Power is a unique program that blends the ancient wisdom of the martial arts with the mind-body approach of modern integrative medicine. During group classes, we teach real martial arts skills, transforming young cancer patients from “victims” to “Ninja Fighters”. Our martial arts therapists also teach children how to manage pain and fear, building self-confidence and self-esteem in a positive, affirmative and upbeat atmosphere. Our therapists work with children who are in physical pain and/or psychological distress, with children in active treatment and children in remission, with children who are becoming stronger, and with children who are gradually weakening. For all these children, Ninja Power creates a sense of power, inner control and happiness.
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Ninja Power offers powerful messages of hope, opportunities for success and achievement, concrete techniques to manage pain and fear, the opportunity to connect with peers without feeling “different”, and time to feel “normal” and in control. The child who is torn down physically and psychologically by disease, rebounds with martial arts therapy, gaining control of negative emotions and rebuilding self-confidence and self-esteem.
Martial arts therapists are skilled martial artists who have specialized training in the medical and psychological aspects of pediatric illness and pain management.
During one-hour group classes, children learn karate moves, plus meditation, visualization and breathing techniques. Through meditation, children develop their own Internal Energies (“Chi Kung”), becoming empowered and focused on positive outcomes. Breathing techniques and visualization help children conquer pain and negative emotions. Active karate movements boost children psychologically and improve balance and coordination. Learning karate improves self-confidence and self-esteem, and children quickly develop their own “Indomitable Spirit”. Throughout the class, Ninja Power participants experience “normal” childhood fun, engaging in new and exciting activities with peers and/or siblings. All participants are provided with Ninja Power martial arts uniforms.
Martial arts therapy takes into account consideration of the medical needs of young cancer patients. When learning karate moves, children practice by punching and kicking into the air or against soft target pads. There is never any body-to-body contact or sparring during Ninja Power programs. As a precaution, children must receive physician clearance to participate in this program.
Very young cancer patients (2-5 years) have the opportunity to participate in Little Ninjas – a specialized martial arts therapy group that includes the parent or caregiver. Developed by a Stanford and Harvard-trained public health specialist, Little Ninjas program focuses on developmentally appropriate and safe martial arts activities that promote normal physical, emotional and social development. Through group games and other fun activities, toddlers and their parents are taught gentle karate moves, breathing, meditation and pain management techniques. In addition to the physical and psychological benefits experienced by the children, parents benefit from networking and social support opportunities.
