Kenisha Coy

This paper is a part of Dr. George Jennings’s panel. Our bodies evolve chronologically, yet how often do we consider evolving our perspectives and engagements with ourselves and each other? As our “Brothers and Sisters Keeper,” we must be mindful of the stories we’ve cultivated and brave enough to break away from familiar paradigms. The proposed presentation, “DEALBreakers – Narratives that Bind and Confine,” delves into the intersection of Martial Arts Breaking, NeuroNarrativity and Community Wellness Engagement.

Connected to ongoing debates in martial arts studies, such as Effectiveness vs. Traditional Virtues and Gender Equity and Inclusivity, this proposal challenges historical narratives that confine martial arts practices and wellbeing, on and off the mat. Inspired by Bruce Lee’s call for inclusivity and Grandmaster Jhoon Rhee’s incorporation of music and forms, the proposal will addresses questioning traditional systems, the application of loyalty and the ensuing dysfunctional loyalty.

Emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, the presentation will be applying a blend of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including Auto-Phenomenology, Ethno-Dramatics, and Narrative Analysis. By merging Martial Arts Breaking with NeuroNarrativity, the aim is aid in breaking away from maladaptive norms, incorporating mental health education and community wellness facilitation for comprehensive well-being. This exploration reflects a commitment to progress beyond familiar paradigms, fostering principles that benefit our collective well-being.