#88 The Mind’s Martial Art featuring Julio Rivera - Grace Lauren Wong

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Today I’m joined by Julio Angel Rivera, a martial arts instructor, writer, and mental health advocate whose life story is as powerful as the lessons he teaches. When Julio was just eight years old, he witnessed a violent event that became the root of his struggles with complex trauma, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.

Despite those challenges, Julio has dedicated his life to turning pain into purpose. Through martial arts and writing, he empowers others to face resistance with resilience. He’s the author of Brokedown Sensei: How I Fought Trauma and Bipolar Disorder From the Outside In, and his new book, Internal Jiu Jitsu: How to Conquer Mind and Body Resistance by Giving Way, was just released with White Deer Publishing in celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month.

In this conversation, we’ll explore Julio’s journey of managing complex trauma, living with comorbidities, and how the principles of martial arts can be applied to mental health and healing.

InternalJiuJitsu.com Go check out his new book! https://a.co/d/f3d7tiE

📚 Mental Health & Crisis Resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) – Call or text 988 if you’re in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.
  
  
• SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) – A confidential, free, 24/7 resource for individuals and families facing mental and substance use disorders.
  
  
• Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
  
  
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – nami.org | Education, advocacy, and local support groups for individuals and families navigating mental illness.
  
  
• CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) – chadd.org | Evidence-based ADHD resources and community support.
  
  
• International Bipolar Foundation – ibpf.org | Education, support, and resources for people living with bipolar disorder and their families.
  
  
• Sidran Institute – sidran.org | Specializes in resources for survivors of trauma and dissociation.
  
  

🥋 Martial Arts & Healing Resources

• Internal Jiu Jitsu: How to Conquer Mind and Body Resistance by Giving Way by Julio Angel Rivera (White Deer Publishing, 2024).
  
  
• Brokedown Sensei: How I Fought Trauma and Bipolar Disorder From the Outside In by Julio Angel Rivera.
  
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