Jiujiteira Magazine Sep/Oct 2021

JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM

issue nine | sep/OCT 2021

samantha seff is

QUEENTHE WOLF
FROM BJJ MATS TO THE OCTAGON reigning supreme • page 16

SEP/oct 2021 cover story 16

Samantha Seff 24
28
sections: 32
38
COACH TALK 44
Omoplata
4
BY DAVID SUTTON 36
46
BEAUTY IS A BEAST
It's a Balancing Act

BY VHILENA NELSON

YOGA FOR JIU-JITSU
Mind Yourself

BY EVELYN SUT TON

OUT OF THE CAGE
A Journey on Cutting Weight

BY SAMANTHA SEFF

ASK THE DOC
Whiplash

BY CHRISTINE FLETCHER

every issue:

PUBLISHER'S CORNER
Shiny is the Crown
CLOSE CHOKE
Natasha Grigorian
JIUJITEIRAS AROUND THE WORLD

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8

MEDUSA JIU-JITSU
On a mission to become the greatest
Jiu-Jitsu organization in the world for women,
the inaugural historic Medusa event marks
the beginning of a new Era of women's BJJ.

PHOTO: BLANCA MARISA GARCIA, KING'S TABLE STUDIOS

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EVELYN SUTTON is on a mission SEP/oct 2021
to uncover and promote the universe
of women in one of the deadliest № 9ISSUE
martial arts in the world.
PUBLISHERs

PUBLISHER’s corner &

Shiny is the Crown. king's table
studios

At 27 years old, Elizabeth Tudor became the point where you are exhausting yourself Creative Director & CEO
queen of a highly polarized and dangerous and your resources. You must strategically
England in 1558 without political experience learn to allocate your energy, money and time Evelyn Sutton
or training. Her father, King Henry Tudor VIII in a way where less is more and you are work-
had Elizabeth's mother Anne Boleyn behead- ing hard but smart (Turn to page 28 and read writers
ed when Elizabeth was three years old, their our Beauty is a Beast column on balance). Chris Fletcher
marriage determined invalid, and Elizabeth Charlotte McKinley
declared an illegitimate child, removed from Develop Daily Self-Improvement: Train, David Sutton
the line of succession, and never expected exercise, get up early, eat healthy and get Evelyn Sutton
to rule, thus she did not receive the proper serious about your to-do lists. Successful
upbringing of a monarch. Despite the odds, women consistently do things that help Girls in Gis
Elizabeth managed to reign for 45 years and them stay on track, happy and productive. Samantha Seff
is celebrated for her many victories at war- Sophia McDermott
fare, economic policies, progress she brought Don't Apologize: A couple of issues ago, Vhilena Nelson
to England and patronage of the arts. There Samantha Seff, The Wolf Queen who
is no doubt she was one of the most badass beautifully wears the crown on our cover proofreading
female rulers history has witnessed. this month (photo by the talented Michelle
Chopp) wrote for her Out of the Cage column Edgard Esperança
Shiny is the crown and we all want to wear it. in our magazine, a piece entitled "Sorry, not
But can we handle the dedication, responsi- Sorry." In essence, it means living life on photography
bility and discipline it demands? your own terms and going after your dreams King's Table Studios
regardless of what anybody else thinks. The Blanca Marisa Garcia
Defying the odds and going against what is most liberating and powerful feeling in the
expected of them is what powerful women do. world is giving yourself permission to go after Evelyn Sutton
But how? All successful women share certain what you want without the need to explain Michelle Chopp
habits and traits we can learn from. Here's a yourself or apologize to those who don't un-
few to get us started: derstand your vision and motivations. 880 Mc Clendon Street, Melbourne, FL 32935
jiujiteiramagazine.com U 321.917-1599
Vision: Successful people know that you can’t Take calculated risks: You can't achieve great
get anywhere if you don’t know where you’re things if you're afraid of failure. One of the Subscribe online at JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM. Please allow
going. Have a clear picture of what you want to reasons there are still more men than women 6-8 weeks for subscription to start. Jiujiteira Magazine, LLC is
accomplish, on and off the mats, and pursue in power in society is the fact that statistical- published in partnership between LuxDei Studio in Florida and
what will help you bring that vision into reali- ly, men are more likely to take risks compared King's Table Studios in California. The contents of Jiujiteira Mag-
ty. “Create the highest, grandest vision possible to women, especially when under stress. azine, associated websites, advertisements, articles, graphics,
for your life, because you become what you photographs and any other published content are protected by
believe”, Oprah Winfrey, Queen of All Media. Be Yourself: Authenticity works. It's per- copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed or modi-
fectly ok to look up to other women who you fied without prior written consent of Jiujiteira Magazine. Jiujitei-
Goals: Success is defined by achieving goals. admire and learn from them, but don't aim ra Magazine does not necessarily endorse, verify, or agree with the
It's imperative to turn your vision into big and to become a copy of anyone. You are uniquely content, and makes no guarantees as to the accuracy, complete-
small milestones to make it attainable. destined for something of your own. Your ness, timeliness, or usefulness of any content. Jiujiteira Magazine
flaws and talents are part of the mixture that shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions in the content.
Work Hard, Work Smart: Every successful make you who you are. Never forget that. ©2021 All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or in part, is
woman I know is a powerhouse. They put prohibited without written permission from the publishers.
150% into everything they are involved in Enjoy this issue. It's full of majesty. Oss!
because they don't believe in doing anything
halfway. You must hustle, everyday, but not to

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HAPPENINGS

MEDUSA

A NEW ERA OF WOMEN'S JIU-JITSU

STORY BY EVELYN SUT TON
PHOTOS BY BLANCA MARISA GARCIA & KING'S TABLE STUDIOS

The most anticipated women's C R OW N E D Q U E E N S O F T H E F I R ST E V E R M E DU SA F E M A LE- O N LY J I U- JITS U
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu event of the year TOURNAMENT STRAWWEIGHT CHAMPION FATIMA KLINE
took place October 2nd in Cancun, AND BRIANNA STE-MARIE, BANTAMWEIGHT CHAMPION WITH
Mexico and delivered an exciting ME D USA'S FO UN D ER S, ED D IE B R AVO A N D V ICTO R DAV IL A .
night full of surprises. The inaugu-
ral event of Medusa, a women-only
BJJ league created by Eddie Bravo
and Victor DaVilla showcased a pair
of eight-women brackets split under
Combat Jiu-Jitsu and EBI rules. The
success of the event left athletes and
audience wanting more. One of the
fighters, April Parks said: "The en-
tire tournament was fire! Best run
promotion I have ever seen. Every
lady was ridiculously talented." We
can't wait for the next one!

Follow Medusa on IG: medusafojj

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FIGHT LIKE
A GIRL.

#TRAINWITHCONFIDENCE

ZebraAthletics.com

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COVER STORY

Samantha Seff

TWHE OLF QUEEN
is howling at the moon

The Wolf Queen appears in lore across cultures, from the Ancient
Romans to the Celts and can even be found in African folktales.
Although the stories of her origin may differ, one thing remains the
same, the Wolf Queen is always described as a fearless female

warrior of mighty strength and beauty. Samantha Seff
personifies the legend and she’s taking a bite out of combat
sports confirming her status as MMA royalty. Inspired by
her journey, we asked her to share with us her personal
experience from humble beginnings to the center stage
of Invicta, the largest women’s MMA organization
in the world. Samantha is a blogger (wolfqueenmma.
com) and contributing writer to several publications,
including our own Jiujiteira Magazine. Her well-crafted
words and honest approach to controversial subjects
women in combat sports deal with on a daily basis
have motivated countless women to take action
and control their destinies. A natural born leader, this
queen leads her army of Jiujiteiras as the wolf queen
leads her pack, guiding, teaching and empowering.

INTRO BY EVELYN SUT TON
AUTOBIOGRAPHY BY SAMANTHA SEFF
PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CHOPP

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mall in stature, big stubborn than ever to take on bigger have difficulty trusting others and
in heart; a phrase and bigger tasks. Napoleon Bona- building bonds because I always as-
I have often used to parte apparently has nothing on my sume the worst of inevitably being
describe myself and “little man syndrome” as I decided let down and hurt.
my larger-than-life to pursue my dream of an inherent-
dreams that re- ly violent sport usually associated Because of my excellent academic
quired dedication, with gargantuan male Spartans. standing, I followed the only path
sacrifice, hard work, in which I received guidance and
and effort. Just I was an athlete my whole life, using advice, which was to continue my
like almost anyone sheer willpower and tenacity to secondary education at a university,
in existence, I have had a make up for the deficient areas in specifically Florida State in Talla-
multitude of setbacks and which my size lacked. I played varsi- hassee. I studied Criminology and
roadblocks threatening to ty sports throughout my high school Psychology and used my time in
impede my journey in the martial career and excelled in academia. I school to focus on behaviors, man-
arts world, but by learning to pri- always dreamt of pursuing martial nerisms, social cues, body language
oritize and starve my distractions arts as I constantly displayed my and tics, and the whole nature ver-
while nourishing my mind and aggressive tendencies on the soccer sus nurture theory on why people
feeding my focus, I have found to be field and thirsted for something commit certain acts or grow up to
more than capable of accomplishing more liberating when it came to the become the way that they do. All
great feats I once thought were far- amount of allowable force executed. while dreaming of doing something
fetched and impossible. Turns I was, and still am, fiercely indepen- more meaningful with my life in a
out I am not just the little engine dent and wanted to pursue a sport way that impacted others.
that could, I’m the freaking tank that was much more reliant on an
train that chugga-chugga-choo- individual performance rather than It’s hard to explain it, but I always
choo’d herself to the peak of the depending on the inclusion of those felt like I was destined to achieve so
railroad tracks. on my team. It’s one of the reasons much more in my life and wanted
that drew me to my current gym, to break free of the barriers threat-
a fighter from where my teammates are much ening to hold me back. I graduated
the Craddle more like family and excellent in on a Friday and that day packed
their support but it is still up to me everything up to move with family
I was born in New York, at Long to execute a skilled performance on in North Carolina and begin my
Island Jewish Hospital as a preemie my own. This independent streak training days later on Monday, never
triplet 5 weeks early. It is also one of my biggest flaws, as I
seems to be that even once looking back.
from birth, I had chal-
lenges thrust forth in BJJ + MMA
my direction to teach
me to learn how to cul- My first day at a BJJ
tivate my inner most gym was riddled with
strengths and become insecurities. I was one
more and more deter- of very few women
mined to succeed. My training, easily the
genetics and prema- smallest person there,
ture birth as a multiple in mismatched attire,
always kept me at the and knowing almost
bottom of the growth nothing about what I
charts, which perhaps was getting myself into.
led me to become more Every day I felt like I
was wasting every sin-
gle person’s time that

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cover story samantha seff

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"...I always
felt I was
destined to
achieve so
much more
in my life
and wanted
to break
free of the
barriers
threatening
to hold me
back."

got stuck working with me.
Only realizing years later
that it is sometimes more
beneficial to teach the me-
chanics and fundamentals
to someone newer to the
sport. Still, I showed up
daily, morning and night,
in order to embrace the
suck and hopefully also
start to suck less. Little by
little, I was learning, and
utilizing strengths I never
even knew I had.

I began vigorously train-
ing. I spent all of my free
time in the gym, learning
Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, kick-
boxing, and weight-lifting.
I would forgo a social life
in lieu of this pursuit
(although I had plenty of a
rebellious and downright
dangerous social life as

an adolescent in south Florida and surgery and was wondering when hurt heart. After recovering fully,
later in my college years). I set out all of these negative occurrences I threw myself into rehabbing my
goals and put lots of pressure on would cease to overwhelm me. injury and preparing for my future.
myself to achieve them. My knowl- Even switching gyms to the one
edge was limited and after some While I was going through one of the my new boyfriend ran as it was
trial and error and faltering in local darkest periods of my life, something very competition-oriented and just
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, incredible happened. I had started what I needed to shift my focus
I started devoting some time to spending a lot of time with some- into fighting. I was simultaneously
educating myself on nutrition and one I actually met at a Royce Gracie working a well-paying office job,
the human body as well. I never seminar when he paired us up as which I found out, was detrimental
went into anything half-assed, and partners. We occasionally cross- to my mental health. I was meant to
I was determined to bring my full- trained together at another gym and be active and creative and couldn’t
cheeked A-game to this dream. he was helping me pack up my place stand the structure of a rigid and
to move and then came to visit me robotic work environment. Just
After about 15 months of consistent when I was stuck at home recovering another hurdle to overcome. I also
training, I was awarded my blue from surgery. I wouldn’t say we were had to learn the balance of figuring
belt. Soon after that, I took my dating, it kind of just happened, out my role in a pre-established
first MMA fight, finishing by arm but pretty soon we realized we were family where kids were involved, a
bar submission in the first round. spending a lot of time together and task I am still not sure I’ve gotten
Getting my hand raised was an a relationship blossomed. It’s crazy the hang of all these years later.
exhilarating feeling and I knew that how these things find you without
this was the path I was supposed you even looking for them, and just With my new boyfriend as my head
to be on. I trained hard and began when you need it the most. BJJ instructor (who would win Mas-
working towards my second fight, ter’s Worlds as a brown belt a short
where again I won with a first round I rushed back into training and time later) and a new expert level
submission against a more experi- fighting without being fully healed Muay Thai instructor (and former
enced opponent. I was determined from a traumatic injury and surgery pro fighter) that moved to our gym, I
to make this my future. And then, it and lost my next fight by decision was more than prepared for my next
all came crashing down. with a very swollen knee and a very bout which I won by submission. It
was also my first time cutting weight
I was young and naive and didn’t (approximately 15 lbs) to fight at my
recognize what the signs of being in current weight class of atomweight
a toxic relationship were, and unbe- (105 lbs). I felt unstoppable. That is,
known to me, I was also repetitively until I got TKO’d in my next bout.
cheated on. We lived together and Fortunately for me, rather than
the termination of this relationship dissuading my passions, I became
came to final blows when a shotgun reinvigorated and began working
was pulled on me with the threat on my shortcomings and fixing my
of imminent harm and suicide. It mistakes. Next fight was my fastest
was one of the lowest moments of submission win ever. Then another
my life. And then it got worse. My loss via stoppage that again, I learned
job had suddenly closed leaving me from. Onward and upward.
without work. Then, as I was about
to start camp for my third amateur I then began preparing for a title
fight, I suffered a catastrophic freak fight a weight class up (strawweight,
accident in training where I tore my 115) solely because I would get to
ACL, my MCL, LCL, meniscus, and rematch and try to avenge my first
dislocated and fractured my patella. ever loss against the same oppo-
I required immediate reconstructive nent. Right before stepping in the

"GETTING MY HAND RAISED WAS AN

EXHILARATING FEELING.
I KNEW THIS WAS THE PATH
I WAS SUPPOSED TO BE ON."

cage, we got the call that a beloved Motivation always waxes and wanes, I won’t pretend that I don’t suffer
training partner was on the brink but establishing schedules and rou- from some internal struggles day
of life and death after a severe car tines help you find your way back on in and day out. This sport can be
wreck. I was determined to win for track, and I am forever grateful to incredibly isolating and only the
him. Another first round submis- remaining true in my disciplinary strongest people physically and
sion win and nothing feels better nature to never quit. mentally can endure the grueling
than recovering from your past and weight cuts, strenuous fight camps,
growing as a fighter and athlete and 2021 started with a bang. First, my lack of support from family, out-
bringing your belt to a warrior who brother and his wife gave birth to side ridicule and criticism from
survived the odds. Then I won an- a baby over 7 weeks early and he strangers, and all the other nega-
other title fight at atomweight with finally was able to come home from tive consequences that come with
again another first round submis- the NICU. Then, I turned 30, which being in the public eye for a mere
sion. Then won a kickboxing fight. I I still haven’t come to terms with. few minutes of fight time where
was ready to turn pro. After that, I was taken on a trip anything can happen, even with the
to Jamaica and after over 4 years most prepared athlete. I constant-
The Road to Invicta together, my partner hit me with a ly question if I am doing the right
surprise proposal during dinner at things, over-train my body riddled
I had a lot of difficulties locking in the beach. Out of all the good things with nagging injuries and pained
that first fight. And when I finally to happen, this was easily the happi- joints and ligaments, struggle with
did, I was so rundown with exhaus- est day of my life. guilt if anything wavers, and punish
tion and recovering sicknesses and myself every time my expectations
stressful situations in my home life Then, my big break came. My name of myself fall short. But I am trying
that I had such a lackluster per- was given to Invicta FC by integral to learn healthier ways of coping
formance where I lost by decision. people who had seen me put in hard and more positive self-talk and affir-
Mentally, I wasn’t there, and my work. They needed a last minute mations within myself.
cardio even failed me, something alternate for their upcoming atom-
that has never happened before. weight tournament. I had 15 days to Fortunately for me, I am in an
I was disheartened to lose my pro lose 18 pounds and welcomed the incredibly happy and healthy rela-
debut, but I never stopped training, challenge. Hardest struggle of my life tionship (soon to be marriage) and
and even through the chaos of 2020, (turn to page XXX to read all about Sa- I train at a gym with an excellent
kept to my vigilant routine. I dealt mantha's weight cut). Covid protocols atmosphere. Even on my hard days
with loss of friends and loved ones, allowed us only one coach, my fiancé I know I still have a good life and I
through deaths and alienations, but was out of the country, and I suffered get to keep chasing this dream every
I remained steadfast in my dreams a close betrayal as well. But I learned day. I have been at it over 8 years, 2
and kept a positive front despite I was mentally strong enough and stripes on my brown belt, countless
whatever inner turmoil I was deal- by hard work and sheer willpower, I IBJJF gold medals, 13 fights, and lots
ing with. Bouts of depression and made the weight, won my bout, and of opportunities for growth. I have
anxiety constantly threatened to solidified some strong connections put on seminars, raised money for
hold me back, but I kept climbing. in the sport. charity, organized events, been a

reliable training part-
ner, assisted in coaching
endeavors, been vulner-
able in various writing
jobs and compilations,
and will always be will-
ing to face a challenge
head on. I have people
who believe in me and I
won’t let them or myself
down. I feel like there is
so much more I need to
accomplish in this life
and I am always worry-
ing that I am not doing
enough, but I promise
to keep on trying every
single day. And hopefully
by the time I depart this
world, I will have impact-
ed others and left the
world a better place sim-

ply because I existed. Y

JOIN THE PACK:

SAMANTHA.SEFF

WOLFQUEENMMA

WOLFQUEENMMA.COM

coach talk

Omoplata
from
closed guard

The omoplata, which means scapula
in Portuguese, is a highly effective
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu submission. The
omoplata is an excellent weapon
for any arsenal. In this issue, coach
David Sutton shows how to execute
the omoplata from close guard.

BREAKING IT DOWN: SCAN THIS QR
1. From closed guard: open your guard, place one foot CODE WITH YOUR
on your opponent's hip grip their sleeves. PHONE'S CAMERA
2. Get into a lasso guard by looping your leg around the arm you TO WATCH THE
plan to attack and connect your leg to your opponent's armpit. STEP-BY-STEP
3. Create space, keep the sleeve grip on the arm you're attacking, VIDEO TUTORIAL
and begin to rotate on your shoulders inward towards your
opponent getting ready to roll up into position for the omoplata. DAV ID S U T TON is the lead coach and owner of Carlson Gracie
4. Keep the rotation going until you come all the way up. Jiu-Jitsu Team in Melbourne, FL. With over 18 years in martial arts
5. Drop your leg down on their arm with force and currently a brown belt in Jiu-Jitsu, David is responsible for
to pin them in place and stop them from a successful kids, adults and womens' program at his gym.
posturing up. Control your opponent's arm Contact him at: bjjmelbournefl.com
above the elbow and right below the shoulder
further restricting their movement and
eliminating any opportunity to escape.
6. You can choose to triangle your legs
when doing the omoplata, but you really
only need one leg firmly hooking the arm.
7. Lean in and flatten your opponent so their
chest is flat on the mat.
8. With your free hand, reach up across
their back and grab on to their shoulder.
Move up further as if you're going to tell them
a secret. The more you move up, the more
pressure gets applied to their shoulder
forcing them to submit.

LEVEL: Intermediate

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girls in gis

SEX

razilian Jiu-Jitsu is a male dominated sport JIU-JITSU MAKES Although Jiu-Jitsu is far
originally designed to cater towards the WOMEN FEEL from a feminine sport,
smaller exclusively male fighter., Despite female athletes are still
this, its focus on using leverage and tech- “SEXY” being hypersexualized
nique has attracted more and more women for advertising content.
to the sport. Women’s participation in IN A DIFFERENT Hypersexualization of
what is considered a man’s sport is becom- WAY. IT GIV E S women as a means of ad-
ing more widely accepted and spreading. THEM A vertising is nothing new,
There is also an increase of professional SPACE IN A but the Jiu-Jitsu industry
ROOM THAT takes it to another level.
female jiu jitsu athletes, serving as role models for IS US UA LLY These companies want
young women and those who may be considering CONTROLLED athletes who will “look
trying Jiu-Jitsu. It’s encouraging to see women publicly BY MASCULINE good” in their apparel,
holding a prominent space in what is considered such a E N E RGY, A N D and have a social media
masculine activity, and a prominent one at that. following, but female
TEACHES THEM BJJ athletes are painted
As the number of professional female Jiu-Jitsu athletes TECHNIQUES in a different light than
increases, so does the demand for sponsorships. Athletes their male counterparts.
will often represent Jiu-Jitsu apparel or gear companies TO DOMINATE In what is such a heavily
in exchange for help covering the costs of competition. THAT SPACE. male dominated sport,
In addition to competing on the mats, these women now female participants are
compete for sponsors and recognition. more judged on appear-
ance and sex appeal.

VICTORIA D ’AN THON Y is a blue belt and has been training
Jiu-Jitsu for almost four years. She is a student, and enjoys traveling,
writing and training whenever she can. When she’s not on the mats or
at the beach Victoria enjoys spending time with close friends and is
always looking for exciting new experiences.

“Sex sells” and Jiu-Jitsu What is the consequence Finding a QUESTIONS?
athletes are not immune of perpetuating and per- balance is key WE GOT
to this. Some practi- sonifying our sexuality in
tioners capitalize on and Jiu-Jitsu? Does sexuality There's a difference ANSWERS.
lean into this notion., If have a place in Jiu-Jitsu? between being exploited,
they’re going to be sexual- I want young women who and taking the narrative What topics do you want to
ized no matter what, they are entertaining the idea into one’s own hands. read about? Got questions on
may as well take owner- of trying MMA to feel These athletes need to being a woman in a male domi-
ship of it and gain recogni- empowered and welcome take ownership of the nated sport? Anything Jiu-Jitsu
tion in the process. in that notion rather than narrative surrounding related you want to know more
intimidated by precon- their sexuality in order to about, send us an e-mail and
Thankfully, female Brazil- ceived gender norms. The avoid being exploited for our experts will answer.
ian Jiu-Jitsu athletes are Jiu-Jitsu gyms and train- recognition and sponsor-
also expanding upon what ing facility have a mutual ships and to be solid role Send your e-mail to:
is deemed “sexy.” Female ground where people can models. It should be up [email protected]
Jiu-Jitsu athletes can be grapple and face adversity to the individual woman
strong and assertive while both physically and met- to decide how she wants
still being sexy. The activity aphorically. This makes to navigate her sexual and
of grappling and fighting the hypersexualization of professional narrative in
is far from glamorous, but women hard to ignore
grants a level of confidence relation to Jiu-Jitsu. Y
that is undeniable.

Jiu-Jitsu makes women High Quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Kimonos, Rashguards, Tank
feel “sexy” in a different Tops, Workout Leggings, Sports Bra, Shorts & BJJ Belts.
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Beauty is a Beast BALANCE

Bait'sla ancingACT IS AN EFFORT.
WITH SELF
BY VHILENA NELSON
AWARENESS
YOU C A N STAY
HE A LTH Y A N D

STILL BE A
SUPERWOMAN
TO YOURSELF

AND TO THE
PEOPLE IN
YOUR LIFE.

2 8 | J I U J I T E I R A MAGAZINE | JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM

his month's article is on balance which really
ties in well with the Libras of September
and October as the scales are their cosmic
sign. A balanced person has an even keel
that allows them to deal effectively with all
situations. Balance is of course important not
just for Libras but for all people. Balance may
play a greater role than usual in our lives at
present. In fact, balance may actually help us
overcome many challenges and obstacles
during these times when change seems so
prevalent and uncertain.

As women we are often feel that everyone allow ourselves to not feel our own needs and those
expected to do so else knows what they guilty when taking care of of others? What about our
much. We must want better than we do. ourselves. This includes job responsibilities? Our
take care of others while How can we know where hobbies that are not only personal goals? And how
still taking care of our- other people stand? Where good for our physical health do we handle the inevita-
selves. It's like walking should we put our energy? but also our mental health. ble conflicts that arise?
on a tightrope; if you fall Should we try harder to Taking care of yourself does Here are some ideas that
one way or another, your understand their point of not mean being selfish, might help you achieve
life falls as well. This view, or spend more time but it certainly doesn't the perfect balance:
means that we need to trying to get ours across? include neglecting yourself.
maintain both sides of any In relationships, balancing You don't have to give up 1Be clear about your
situation: our own needs the two different points of anything to keep yourself priorities. Are you
and desires, and those view is difficult enough. happy and healthy. We willing to compromise
of others around us. The But when we consider the must remind ourselves how or sacrifice something for
challenge here is how best whole picture, there are much more difficult it is someone else? If so, what
to accomplish this. many factors involved. to give from an empty cup will it be? If not, then
compared to one filled with what are your top three
We play a role Finding the balance to love and appreciation. things that you absolutely
in so many make sure everyone's cannot let go of? These
people's lives, needs are met as well So how do we find are your "must haves" .
from family members to as our own takes practice the right amount Make sure you're aware
friends to co-workers. We and experience. We have to of balance between of them before making

JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM | J I U J I T E I R A MAGAZINE | 2 9

decisions. Otherwise you'll never be 6Stay calm. Stress is a natural 11Find time to relax. This
able to tell whether you've achieved part of life. It's important to doesn't mean that you
the proper level of balance. remain flexible, even under should neglect your respon-
pressure. Remember that there sibilities. But it does mean that you
2Consider all aspects of the is a difference between stress and have to carve out some special time
problem. When faced with anxiety. Anxiety is fear. It's normal for yourself. This doesn't have to be
a decision, think through to feel anxious sometimes. But if anything fancy. Just fifteen minutes
every angle possible. Don't assume you become overwhelmed by these to sit quietly and unwind, perhaps
that just because you understand emotions, they can negatively affect listening to soothing music.
the facts that you fully grasp the your ability to function.
entire issue. Sometimes you can 12Don't try to please every-
learn new information that changes 7Keep a positive outlook. It's one. You will never be able
everything. Look at each side of the easy to get caught up in nega- to satisfy every person.
equation. Think of all the possibil- tive thinking. However, if you Trying to do so will only create frus-
ities. Try to see all angles at once. dwell on bad experiences, they can tration and resentment. Instead,
Then decide which course of action drag you into a downward spiral concentrate on pleasing the people
will be most beneficial overall. of negativity. So try to focus on the who are truly important to you.
good, instead.
3Avoid extremes. An extreme These 12 solutions are a few
position is always wrong. 8Let yourself feel. Emotions ways to help maintain harmo-
Whether it's too much effort can be very powerful forces. ny and balance in our lives.
or too little, or giving too much or They can help us make better We must always keep our priorities
not enough, either choice is usually decisions and move forward with straight and not allow our emotions
poor. Instead, choose something in confidence. At the same time, how- to rule our actions. As women, we
the middle. That way you won't hurt ever, they can cloud our judgment. are expected to be strong, indepen-
anyone's feelings, but neither will It's best to keep them to yourself, dent, capable, caring, supportive,
you cause unnecessary problems. unless you really have to share. compassionate, nurturing, loving,
understanding, sensitive, gentle, pa-
4Learn to say no. There are 9Be open to change. Change tient, selfless, giving, faithful, honest,
times when saying yes is is inevitable. We can only humble, responsible.
simply out of reach. Maybe control the path we walk. The
you can't afford to take on a project, only thing we can do is adapt to the As you can see these are a lot of
or maybe you just don't feel like ever-changing world around us. responsibilities! And as you
doing it. In these cases, you need to can also see, balance plays an
politely decline. Your refusal may 10Pay attention to details. important role. When you achieve
seem harsh, especially if you haven't Details matter. Every- balance, you will find that you can
said no often. But remember, if you thing has a purpose. deal with almost any situation.
can't refuse, you can't ask. It's better Small things are often overlooked,
to turn down a request now than to but they add up to make a big im- Remember that the key to
regret a yes later. pact. If you pay careful attention to balance isn't just about
the small stuff, you will be amazed at achieving a certain amount
5Take time to reflect. After a how much more you can accomplish. of time for ourselves, or working
stressful situation, step back
and examine what happened. V HIL E N A N E L S ON is a professional hair stylist and owner of
Did I do the best that I could, given His & Her Mobile Hair Salon in Melbourne, FL. A blue belt in Jiu-Jitsu,
the circumstances? Could I have han- Vhilena competes in BJJ and is a local advocate for women in the
dled myself better? How can I avoid sport. You can contact her at: [email protected]
repeating this mistake? These ques- or hisandhermobilehaircare.com
tions can help you gain perspective.

3 0 | J I U J I T E I R A MAGAZINE | JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM

on one aspect of our life at a time. fact that we can't do everything. It's It can be difficult to make this
Balance is a constant state of being. okay to say no, and it's okay to ask kind of a commitment, especially
It's not something you can have at for help. We can't do it all, and that's when you are faced with so many
the end of the day. Balance is a pro- okay.Being firm about the things we demands and responsibilities. But
cess. It's a way of life. It's a lifestyle. are not willing to sacrifice is key to you can make the change if you want
It's not a goal. It's not a destination. balancing our lives. to. It takes time, effort, and patience.
It's not something that happens. It It is not easy, but it is possible.
is something that you do. It's a way Understanding the value of
of looking at the world. It's a way of your happiness is import- Balance is an effort. It's not al-
seeing the whole picture. It's a way ant. Happiness is something ways comfortable, and it's cer-
of living. It's a way of thinking. It's a that is hard to define, but it is tainly not simple. It requires
way of acting. definitely worth pursuing. Happi- us to constantly reevaluate how we
ness is a feeling of contentment and spend our time. Sometimes we have
Allowing ourselves the free- well-being. It is the fulfillment of to make sacrifices. Other times, we
dom to know what is most your needs and desires. Even if you may have to cut back on some things.
important to us is a way of are a mother, wife, business woman As long as you are self aware, you can
maintaining that balance. When etc. you can and should still put maintain a healthy balance. You can
you are happy with your choices, your needs as a priority. Happiness make changes in order to keep your-
you are balanced. We don't have is a choice. It is a decision to take self happy and you can be flexible.
to sacrifice our hobbies, goals, and care of yourself. It's a decision to pri- You can still be superwoman to the
dreams to be a good mother or wife oritize your own wants and needs. people in your life and superwoman
or friend. We don't have to give up It's a decision to let go of the things
our careers or our independence. you don't need. It's a decision to stop to yourself as well. Y
We just have to learn to accept the comparing yourself to others.

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yoga for jiu jitsu

id you know that with a little bit also a healthy and positive mind. This form
of daily, consistent practice, you of self-care can help us modulate our think-
can develop greater awareness ing and consciously decide which thoughts
of your thoughts and learn to we want to pursue and which are best to let
control your mind? Yoga is an go. Don't feel pressured by what's going on in-
ancient practice that doesn't side your head. It's true that what consumes
just focus on developing and your mind, controls your life but you are fully
maintaining a healthy body, but in charge of the narrative.

Mind Yourself
learn to monitor your thoughts with yoga

BY EVELYN SUT TON

For the most part, our perception relax the body relax the mind
defines our reality. Two people can
be going through the same situation It’s a good idea to start with a few Now, it's time to become the observ-
and have completely different expe- yoga postures to open up the body, er of your mind. Close your eyes and
riences depending on their personal let go of tension and feel light. If imagine a large movie screen before
lenses. For instance, two Jiujiteiras you're not used to stretching, you'll you. Pay attention to the screen
who train at a gym where they are notice that in the beginning the and begin noticing what images
the only female can have opposite body is stiff and unsteady. Don't let (or sounds, shapes, shadows, etc)
feelings about that. One perceives yourself get discouraged. Gently come up. Don't judge them or try to
it as an opportunity to grow and push through and it will become control them. Allow the manifesting
get stronger while the other one easier. Take this time to pay atten- mind to flow. This first exercise is
perceives it as a gruelling obstacle tion to areas in the body where you meant to develop greater awareness
to overcome. A situation can either seem to hold more tension. This is and learn to "see" your thoughts. Do
make us feel free or imprisioned, our body's way of asking for TLC. Fo- this for 2 minutes. Next you will be-
powerful or defeated, depending on cus your attention on that area and gin to sort through your thoughts,
our state of mind. Wouldn't it be nice take in a round of five long, deep selecting what you want to keep and
to be able to notice when we are in inhales as you visualize the body what needs to be discarded. Notice
a negative mindset and effortlessly softening, relaxing and healing. how you feel when a certain thought
switch to one that benefits us most? Stretch for 2 minutes. comes up. If you feel depressed,
angry, hurt, anxious, scared, de-
TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL: Begin a daily meditation practice of just feated or any other negative way,
5-minutes a day. Find a quiet place, free of distractions, sit comfortably consciously let go of this thought
and close your eyes. Don't focus on trying to change your thougths, simply and substitute it for something that
observe them and focus your mind on your breathing. brings you joy. You'll be neutralizing
the damaging effects of negative
E VELYN SUT TON is a E-RYT200 yoga teacher and owner of thinking by replacing it with em-
LuxDei Studio in Melbourne, FL. Publisher of Jiujiteira Magazine, powering and life giving thoughts.
Evelyn applies her personal practice and knowledge of yoga to
her Jiu-Jitsu training and helps others do the same. Send questions Practice for 1 minute. Y
for this column to: [email protected] or luxdeistudio.com

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PROFESSORA MOM

The Rise of Women's

Wrestling

ust as women’s Bra-
zilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ)
is growing, so is Women’s
Wrestling. I am part of
the last generation of
women who came up
training in my academy
without other women
to train with, so you can
imagine how excited I was
this past year when I was
asked to be the Assistant Coach
for the local High School Girl’s
wrestling team when they offi-
cially started one. Unfortunately,
I think there will be more hurdles
to overcome and more growing
pains in women’s high school and
college wrestling than we had in
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

I am writing this article a couple receive a singlet to compete in. 2021 was the first year the camp had ‘All
of days after returning from a Star’ matches and singlets for the girls. The event was arranged because
four-day wrestling camp at West- of female numbers for the 2019 Camp, (the 2020 Camp was cancelled).
ern Colorado State University in To hold the female ‘All Star’ event, the girls were broken into four weight
Gunnison, Colorado. The team I classes vs the 14 the guys had. It was great to see them spotlighted. I am
help coach had 29 boys and 5 girls so grateful the girls in attendance had high school coaches to support
from the team at the camp. It was them and a camp that is adapting to include them.
a record number of girls going to
the camp from our school and we While I was at the camp, I had a chance to chat with Coach Piper, Head
had one of the largest girls’ team Coach for Men’s Wrestling, of Western Colorado University. With so
in attendance. The camp holds an many colleges announcing the start of women’s wrestling teams, I just
‘All Star’ match on the last night
where the two kids with the best A L IC IA SA N DOVA L is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, competitor
record from each weight bracket and instructor on the legendary Carlson Gracie Team. She is the first
wrestle in a showcase match and woman to be awarded a black-belt directly from Master Carlson
Gracie Jr. She owns Carlson Gracie Team Arizona with her husband.
Contact her: [email protected] or carlsongracieteamaz.com

"Growth for Women’s BJJ aging camp participants don’t have the age limits
was a bit easier in that we to bring their girls along that exist in wrestling
don’t have the age limits with the boys’ teams. today. In addition, it was
that exist in wrestling today. done by women them-
In addition, it was done A related challenge I see is selves via a grass roots
by women themselves via college teams cannot grow effort. Think about it
a grass roots effort." without high school pro- - a tournament is an-
grams to recruit from. I nounced, and we sign up.
had to ask Coach Piper if they would be starting one. think the better-quality fe- If we don’t see anyone in
While the hope is there, he provided insight to the male high school programs our bracket, we post on
challenges of starting a new college sports program in that emerge will help feed social media to encour-
general. It is not just as simple as hiring a coaching into college teams. Re- age others to join us.
staff and recruiting a team. There is the logistic of mat cruiting will be key, along
space, coordinating mat space use with the guy’s team, with the right majors to be To this day I feel blessed
keeping the right athletic director to sports team’s offered in attract female to have the women who
ratio (an issue whenever a new sport is added), athletic talent. In addition, the were willing to step on
trainers to support the new team, resources for trans- NCAA and NAIA may need the mat with me. I am
portation - just to list a few. Despite that, Coach Piper to just have a woman’s divi- also proud that so many
is committed to drawing attention to female partici- sion to start versus trying of them also stuck with
pate at the high school camps he hosts and is encour- to have different divisions it and made it to black-
(D1, D2, etc.) the way they belt. Women’s Brazilian
do for the men. Jiu-Jitsu still has a ways
to go and hopefully fe-
Growth for Women’s BJJ male wrestlers will have
was a bit easier in that we
the same success. Y

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close choke

Made in Brazil

Natasha Grigorian is quite possibly the most positive and friendly person
you'll ever meet in Jiu-Jitsu. Kind, helpful and easy going, she's the type
everyone enjoys being around. Not too long ago, Natasha left the concrete
jungle of São Paulo, Brazil, to build a new life for herself in the United States.
This tropical beauty radiates the natural South of the Equator warmth
many Brazilians are known for. But get her on the mats and it's a different
story. When it's slap and bump time, she has no problem slicing your neck
in a guillotine. Determined to conquer her American Dreams and her
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu birthright, Natasha is here to slay.

STORY & PHOTOS BY EVELYN SUT TON

JM: Tell us about yourself. NG: When I was young- endeavor, so they are happy NG: I’ve been training
How old are you? Where er, I trained Taekwondo to help. Outside of Jiu-Jitsu, non-stop for a year and a
were you born? back in Brazil, and won it's very hard to meet such half. Despite moving and
NG: I am originally from the championship for my nice and helpful people switching gyms, I’ve never
São Paulo, Brazil and I am city (São Paulo). I always who share your passion. stopped training. I began
33 years old. Three years wanted to train Jiu-Jitsu, at Fabin Rosa BJJ in Or-
ago I decided to change but I felt I did not have JM: What impact has lando, and currently I’m
my life completely and enough time and my focus Jiu-Jitsu made in your training at Carlson Gracie
move to the United States. was on other things. What life, as a woman, and Melbourne under David
I sold the majority of my I love about Jiu-Jitsu is individual? Sutton. I used to be a GI
things in Brazil and came the strength it gives you NG: It’s boosted my confi- Jiujiteira, but nowadays
to the USA with only three mentally and physically. dence greatly, enhanced I am liking being a NoGI
suitcases. I was alone. No Modern life is stressful, my body awareness, and Jiujiteira better!
friends, no family, no job, and Jiu-Jitsu is the best made me stronger, more
and full of uncertainty. medicine to release stress! flexible, with much more
I had my faith in God to endurance. I’ve also made
sustain me and determi- JM: How was your very a lot of great friends! Fi-
nation to make my Ameri- first BJJ class? nally, it keeps me in touch
can dreams come true. NG: I was lost. I did not with my culture because
know what to do. But my sometimes I miss home.
JM: Have you trained mar- training partners made me
tial arts before and what feel comfortable quickly. JM: How long have you
attracted you to BJJ? Most people that train been training? Do you
know this is a difficult prefer gi or no-gi?

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You will have good days,
and you will have many
bad days. The key is to
keep going. Secondly, …
BREATHE! You may have
a bad training session or
a bad day, but it doesn’t
mean you aren’t cut out
for Jiu-Jitsu. Remember
who you are and why you
started. You are beautiful,
strong, capable, and brave!

"...no one is coming to save you on the mat, JM: What’s something
so you need to be your own hero." people would be surprised
to find out about you?
JM: What’s your favorite JM: You are originally NG: Attitude is everything. NG: A few years ago I
position and favorite from Brazil. In your opin- Some women fear the broke my tailbone in a car
submission? ion, what are some of the fire, some women simply accident. Some days it's
NG: I like to play closed differences you’ve noticed become it. If you remem- very painful to train, but
guard, and I love to use between the community ber who you are and I fight through it. I’ve also
guillotines! of Jiujiteiras in Brazil and train hard, the game will fractured a few of my ribs
the community of Jiujitei- change for you! and sometimes I struggle
JM: What things do you ras in the United States? with my confidence due to
find hard in training? NG: The only real differ- JM: Do you have any pain. Instead of letting it
NG: Because I am a woman ence is the language. Every female BJJ role models stop me, I view it as a chal-
and usually the smallest gym I’ve trained at has you look up to? lenge to overcome and try
or weakest person on the been full of empowered NG: I follow Rafaela to force myself to become
mat, I have to be aware of women who share the Guedes and Rose Namaju- stronger physically, men-
my technique and make same drive, passion, and nas. Rafaela is so intense, tally, and spiritually.
sure it is perfect or I’ll get energy. I’ve seen a lot of but smooth! Rose is one
smashed! I don’t have the women use the practice of of the best Mixed Martial JM: What have you
luxury to power out of bad Jiu-Jitsu to overcome trau- Artists in the world. Both learned from Jiu-Jitsu
positions. matic events and improve of them put a lot of heart that you apply to your
themselves. I’m happy to and feminine energy into daily life?
JM: And what do you be a part of it, and I don’t what they do. I really draw NG: Be yourself. Believe
find easy, what comes think we’re going to stop or inspiration from them! you can do something and
natural to you? be held back! you are halfway there.
NG: I am very competitive JM: What is your advice We often become our
by nature, so wanting to JM: What do you consider for women who just start- thoughts. Jiu-Jitsu forces
compete and trying to get the greatest challenges ed training BJJ? you to go outside of your
better is easy for me. for women in Jiu-Jitsu? NG: Don’t stop! Jiu-Jitsu comfort zone and face
is a frustrating sport. your fears. Losing is part of
Jiu-Jitsu, but it is turning
that loss into self-improve-
ment that is important. No
one is coming to save you
on the mat, so you need to

be your own hero. Y

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out of the cage

A Journey on
Cutting Weight

"I will never be convinced that women are the weaker or more inferior sex
because they continue to defy the odds day by day. Nursing their infants
one second, and striking fear into the hearts of their adversaries the next."

n May 26th, 2021, I received a phone call that would
alter the course of my future career indefinitely. In-
victa FC is one of the most elite MMA promotions
in the country, and definitely the highest level for
women in combat sports outside of the UFC. It is
also the biggest promotion in the continental US
that showcases atom weight (105 lb) fighters. They

needed an alternate spot filled for their upcoming
Phoenix series 1 night atom weight tournament On
June 11th, 2021. Meaning I would have to weigh in at the
allotted weight (105 +/-1) in 15 days on June 10th. I immediate-
ly jumped on the offer to say yes, instantly regretting the French fries and
spinach and artichoke dip I ate outside of my intermittent fasting window
at a going away party for a team member the previous day, and the delicious
sodium-packed jerky I snacked on earlier. Stepped on the scale and saw one
of the highest weights for myself staring back at me, 124, when I normally
walk around at 120. Time to buckle down and get right to it.

Iwas already at the gym teach- cery lists, mile markers I needed to 1 ST P I C: M AY 2 8 T H A F T ER T R AIN IN G
ing my cardio kickboxing class hit on certain days, and calculated A L L DAY A N D O N E DAY A F T ER G ET TIN G
when I received the call, and the calories I would be consuming THE CALL FROM INVICTA. 2ND PIC: JUST
asked members from my household and burning over the next fort- BEFORE WEIGHING IN ON JUNE 10TH
to drop off some thicker layered night. I messaged all my coaches,
clothes and sweats to wear under cancelled all extracurricular plans PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA SEFF
my gi so I could get started on the for the next 2 weeks, and started
process. I pulled up my phone and mentally preparing myself for what
started making scheduled lists of I knew was about to be the most
nutrition and caloric deficit needs difficult and grueling task I would
as well as my exercise routine, gro- undertake to date.

4 0 | J I U J I T E I R A MAGAZINE | JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM

That weekend, I head out at a location that emphasized
of town to attend We Defy humidity as well as heat. I was
seminars. I see the scale beginning to get in my own head

barely decreasing in numbers and I at the slow rate ounces were

felt an internal panic set in. I know disintegrating and stress coupled

it had only been a few days, but I with lethargy and exhaustion

had a complete drastic overhaul on can not only inhibit weight loss,

my diet, only consuming clean and it puts your immune system at WITH SHANNON KNAPP, PRESIDENT OF
natural food items during a 6 hour risk. My zinc and vitamin C sup- INVICTA FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS
window (following an 18:6 intermit- plements went into overdrive as I
tent fasting schedule where you eat staved off any sniffle threatening Iwould spend my ensuing days
during a 6 hour window and fast for to make me ill. training nonstop, pushing
the remaining 18). Everything I was the pace, doing a full hour of
consuming was only things you can No one was there to hold elliptical machines at the gym
hunt, fish, grow, or gather; absolute- my hand through these until I burned 600 calories at
ly nothing processed, artificial, or tasks. I set my alarms minimum, wear multiple layers
with any dyes or additives whatsoev- even earlier than usual to begin to shed extra sweat, attend those
er, meaning I was prepping almost my days with fasted cardio. I grueling hot yoga sessions for 75
the entirety of all of my meals so I pre-proportioned all of my meals minutes at a time, and still find
would know every little thing going and scheduled the times they the strength to prepare my foods,
into my body. I was also consuming would be consumed. Because of get the right balance of vitamins
around 1.5 gallons of water daily, this super short notice bout, my and supplements to not harm my
which fortunately for me, I normally fiancé, who happens to be my body, and make sure I was using
consume close to a gallon on average main Jiu-Jitsu instructor and any spare time to pack, prepare,
anyways so this wasn’t too much one of my cornermen, was gone rest, sleep, and recover. I was
of a stretch, I just had to pee a lot most of the time with prior obli- allowed only one corner to travel
more frequently. I rolled constantly gations and commitments. Other with me due to lingering Covid
throughout the weekend, taking people I normally turned to for protocols, and both my usual
zero breaks and ignoring any nag- support and help were suddenly coaches were preoccupied (one
ging pains, and still wasn’t losing MIA as they dropped me quickly with his work business, and my
weight as fast as I would have liked. in lieu of their own social lives. fiancé actually being out of the
When I tell you that absolutely country) so it was just another
The next week started with devastated my heart and soul, I little bump on the road on this
my energy levels much lower can’t begin to reiterate enough. journey to success.
due to the extreme deficit However, I had zero time to
I hurriedly approached, and my dwell on the heartache it caused
mind weighing heavily on the lack

of progress I was seeing. My skin because I had a job to do. Weeks Fight week had me flying
however, was the clearest it had later, it still causes me pain, but out early that Monday
ever been and my joints weren’t as I am also grateful for knowing morning, still 6 pounds
arthritically swollen and creaky as I can always rely on myself and away from goal weight with now
usual, definitely a plus. I scheduled push me to do what needs to be the added factors of stress from
training throughout the week as done regardless of the support travel and isolation. I had my
well as booked 2 hot yoga sessions (or lack thereof) around me. carry-on bag, a massive checked

bag full of fight gear, necessary

SA MA NT HA S EFF, "The Wolf Queen" is a BJJ brown belt under Team snacks of unsalted nuts, a pro-
Rubao Carioca at Schell Shock BJJ in Fuquay Varina, NC. She's a professional tein and suppergreens powdered
atomweight MMA fighter and writes a weekly blog: WolfQueenMMA.com. supplement to mix into my
In her spare time, she enjoys cooking & baking and besides her water, a sauna suit, and thick
title belts, her color-coded self-written cookbook is her most prized

possession. You can reach her via DM on Instagram @wolfqueenmma

JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM | J I U J I T E I R A MAGAZINE | 4 1

clothes for extra sweating power. I Icompleted 60 minutes on the if I could make it with 3 lbs left to
was also checking my portable sau- elliptical, burning approximately go. Then I passed out feeling utterly
na to ensure I could get out those 600 calories. Then, went outside defeated and went to bed.
last few pounds of water. Upon into the blistering summery heat
landing in Kansas City, we were and did 5 full laps around the build- Imade a promise to myself the
allowed a trip to the store to pick up ing. Went inside, put ice water on my night before. I knew I needed to
necessary items. I purchased what face to cool my external body heat weigh in at 10:15 am this day at
I would need for a weight cutter’s and change into fresh sweats so my 106 lbs or less. If I saw an 8 any-
bath (more on that later), extra core body temperature could relax. I where leading the numbers, I would
water for the week, electrolytes ate one celery stalk, 1 broccoli floret, do a weight cutter’s bath. If I saw a
and hydration supplements for my and 1 oz of unsalted nuts. Then my 7, I would just use the sauna. I was
rehydration process, the proper trainer and I cranked up the heat in lucky that when I woke up, although
foods for my refueling process, and the room and did a full hour of MMA I felt tired and weak, the headaches
pistachio muffins as a treat for after training on the mats provided. Fin- and spasms subsided somewhat.
the fight which are my favorite and ished the workout by diluting some Barely any energy in me, I saw 108.5
I can’t find anywhere. Bless Sprouts protein/greens in water. on the scale an began preparing my
and their stores full of delicious, bath. My mentality would have been
organic, and whole foods. Wednesday morning was shot, save for the fact that my fiancé
the final full day of must have told members of the gym
We immediately got Covid cutting weight. Every that I was struggling and I woke up
tested upon our arrival workout was the same as the previ- to a bombardment of encouraging
to the hotel and were ous day, even the food but without messages motivating me and sup-
quarantined to our rooms until the nuts and water was cut by half, porting me in my journey. It helped
the results the next day. Invicta meaning I was consuming just un- push me when I thought I was done
provided us with mats to train in der ¼ of a gallon and only consum- and I am so grateful to those who
the rooms and we also had our ing sips past 3 pm. I also added an took time to say something positive.
weights checked to ensure no one extra 30 minutes on the elliptical
was risking their health and safety in the evening, just after having to My trainer drew a scalding
by cutting too much. That day I sign autograph posters. Went back hot bath, dumped in 5
continued my water intake, burned up to the room and sweated 40 bags of Epsom salt and 5
approximately 500 calories in the minutes in the sauna before I show- bottles of rubbing alcohol. I got in
room, ate 2 oz of unsalted nuts, ¼ ered and got ready for an early bed and told him to tell me when 20
of a banana, 2 pieces of broccoli just past 8 pm as I was exhausted minutes were up. I probably would
and celery apiece, and my protein/ and simply had zero energy. All of have been crying at this point if I
greens powder diluted in one cup of a sudden, I was hit with an excru- had any tears left in my body. After
water. Tuesday morning, I took my ciating headache and lower back that torture, er, I mean bath, I got
vitamins and supplements, drank a spasms located just behind my out and immediately got wrapped in
little bit of water, took care of all the kidneys. I wasn’t even hungry, just several layers of blankets and towels
media day scheduled tasks since ev- desperately thirsty with nothing with nothing but my face exposed,
eryone was now medically cleared, to whet my needs. I messaged my known as the fighter sushi roll. This
and did all my duties despite how fiancé, his last night teaching at traps heat in my body and keeps me
drained I was starting to feel. After- our gym back home before he flew continuously sweating out water. I
wards, I threw on some sweats and out of the country to Costa Rica. I stayed in there for a brutal 40 min-
heading to the elliptical. was feeling terrible and doubting utes, with my trainer rubbing ice on

"My trainer drew a scalding hot bath, dumped in 5 bags
of Epsom salt and 5 bottles of rubbing alcohol. I got in."

4 2 | J I U J I T E I R A MAGAZINE | JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTOS BY INVICTA FC

my head every 10 minutes to avoid a with electrolytes. I felt great as we
medical emergency. After the timer headed to the venue. It’s amazing
went off, he started heating up the how quickly the mind and body
sauna while I dried off and checked can recover when you are in good
my weight. Fully nude, it said 106. health, good spirits, and fully sati-
On the phone with one of my other ated. I felt and looked great at the
coaches, he told me to rest these publicized weigh ins and couldn’t
remaining 2 hours as I would lose wait to be ready to eat a full meal
another ounce or 2 and hopefully be when returning. It was awesome to
able to weigh in with some clothing. see myself in comparison to so many
Not that my completely exhausted women in my weight class when it
body cared at this point. I just want- had been a long time since I have
ed it done with. been able to have matches at atom-
weight, let alone be surrounded by
Just before 10, we made it so many in that category. I truly felt
downstairs. Everything was a like I belonged.
blur to me. It was like my brain
was under water and I had only That night, I ate plain pasta
the faintest idea of what was going and butter, more bread, and
on. My name was called. I stripped some chicken. I finished all
down to the tiniest and thinnest of my water. I went to bed so happy
undergarments, big grin on my face and full but not stuffed or bloated
knowing it was almost over, and and slept better than I had in weeks.
stepped on the scale. The commis- I woke up feeling even better and
sion yelled out 105.9. I freaking with more energy than I had in a
did it! To say I was proud of myself long time. I also knew for certain I
is an understatement. I endured would have a fight so all that hard
the most physically and mentally work would not be for naught. I
grueling task of my life and passed fueled myself that day with dark
with flying colors. I now know there cherries, a muffin, cold pressed juic-
is no limit to the things I take on as es, and half a sandwich, my usual
long as I put in 100% effort and I am pre-fight consumptions. By far, that
capable of so much more than I ever was the best I had ever felt going
gave myself credit for. into a bout and it showed. I had the
very best time and it solidified the
As soon as I stepped off the love I have for my job, my career,
scale, I slowly began sipping and the entirety of the fight world.
my Pedialyte and my water. I am so grateful to Invicta for giving
Halfway through, I ate a banana. I me this opportunity and to every-
finished my Pedialyte, and ate some one who supported and encouraged
bread and butter and a few bites of me on the way. And even to those
chicken. My stomach had enough who doubted me or spoke negatively
at this point. I knew we had the on me. Ya girl is 100% fuled by the
media weigh ins in a few hours and pettiness of the haters who dream
planned a heartier meal after that. to achieve what they are too afraid
For now, I was letting my stomach to work for. I love this life and I am
calm down from the trauma as I here to stay. I can’t wait to see what
continuously sipped water from my
gallon jug and another bottle filled else the future holds. Y

JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM | J I U J I T E I R A MAGAZINE | 4 3

ask the doc

Whiplash

is Not Just for Car Accidents

hen a person SIGNS AND
lands from a SYMPTOMS OF
takedown during WHIPLASH
a match, their
neck can be put in ▶ Neck pain
some very awkward ▶ Neck stiffness
angles. This can create ▶ Arm pain
some very painful and ▶ Arm numbness/tingling
potentially serious issues ▶ Headache
in the neck that can pull ▶ Dizziness/vertigo
a person off the mats for ▶ Nausea and vomiting
weeks or months. ▶ Insomnia
▶ Hearing loss or tinnitus
The cervical spine is made ILLUSTRATION BY DUSTIN SCOTT▶ Fatigue
up of seven vertebrae that ▶ Visual disturbances
are separated by discs and the incident that caused the ▶ Difficulty with memory
a canal that houses the whiplash and the onset of and concentration
spinal cord. At each verte- pain. This lag is explained by ▶ Psychological
brae, two nerve roots leave the facet joints of the cervical distress (depression,
the left and right side that spine taking a few hours to anxiety, anger, fear,
provide sensation and mo- build enough inflammation hypochondriasis)
tor control to the muscles to create pain.(2) Immediate
of the arms. There are six pain after injury indicates 50%Roughly
major ligaments and an that a more severe injury has
assortment of muscles occurred, such as a fracture. of all people who sustain a
that surround the cervical spine. whiplash injury will recover
within three months of injury
In a study of various throws and
takedowns, the forces on the neck
at impact are similar to road ac-
cidents. (1) Whiplash is the mech-
anism of hyperextension of the
lower cervical spine with a relative
flexion of the upper cervical spine.
There is usually a time lag between

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Roughly 50% of all people who sustain buy oneHolidays 2021
a whiplash injury will recover within get one
three months of injury, but the other
25-40% of people will have persistent
symptoms at one year post injury and,
in some cases, 39% of patients will still
have symptoms at seven years post
injury. Delayed recovery is seen in
older age groups, females, people with
pre-existing neck pain, and people
with neurological deficits and high
initial intensity of neck pain. (3)

Early active management of whiplash The content in this article is for Packed full of great content,
shows consistent results in the re- informational purposes only - it is inspirational stories, coverage
search for the best possible return to not intended to delay or substitute for of main BJJ and MMA events,
pre-accident activities as soon as pos- professional medical advice, diagnosis, extraordinary stories and
sible. High quality education on the and/or treatment. The content is not interviews, Jiujiteira Magazine
injury, prognosis, and treatment help intended to promote understanding of is the perfect gift for the
immensely with positive outcomes. various musculoskeletal injuries. Content special Jiujiteira in your life.
Hands-on therapy from a physical may not apply to your specific condition As a THANK YOU to your
therapist, chiropractor, or massage or symptoms. Always seek the advice of support, for a LIMITED TIME
therapist in conjunction with exercis- your physician or other qualified medical ONLY when you purchase one
es that target strength training and professional for any question you have subscription, you will get a
endurance training in the cervical for a medical condition. second subscription FREE!
spine were the most beneficial over
passive treatments like soft collars, REFERENCES Hurry! Offer valid only
strict rest, and modalities such as 1. KOCHHAR T, BACK DL , B MANN B, SKINNER J. while supplies last.
ultrasound or TENS units. (4)
RISK OF CERVICAL INJURIES IN jiujiteiramagazine.com/
Whiplash in the neck can happen MIXED MARTIAL ARTS. get-the-magazine-2
with takedowns, sweeps, or a rogue
hit to the head. Early active man- BRITISH JOURNAL OF SPORTS MEDICINE.
agement will get a jiujiteira back on VOLU M E 39, ISSU E 7. 2005.
the mats as soon as possible.
2. TANAKA N, ATESOK K, NAKANISHI K, ET AL .
GOT PATHOLOGY AND TREATMENT OF TRAUMATIC
QUESTIONS?
CERVICAL SPINE SYNDROME: WHIPLASH INJURY.
ADV ORTHOP. 2018.

3. YADLA S, R ATLIFF JK , HAR ROP JS.
WHIPLASH: DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT,
AND ASSOCIATED INJURIES.CURR REV
MUSCULOSKELET MED. 2008;1(1):65–68.

4. T MCCLUNE, A K BURTON, G WADDELL.
WHIPLASH ASSOCIATED DISORDERS: A REVIEW OF
THE LITERATURE TO GUIDE PATIENT INFORMATION

AND ADVICE. EMERG MED J 2002;19:499–506.

Please send them to CHR IS F LE TCHE R has her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the
[email protected] University of Iowa and owns Combat Arts Physical Therapy in Spokane,
Washington. She is a purple belt under Newborn Cascao Jiu Jitsu, and is
Your question could be chosen happy to answer your questions regarding musculoskeletal injuries.
and answered in this article. Email those to [email protected]

around the world 1

2

34 1. KOMPOUND TRAINING CENTER, CO:
Happy Jiujiteiras getting ready to fine tune their BJJ
6 game in Colorado. If you are ever in the area, stop
by for a roll or two. Oss!
5 2. CANCUN, MEXICO:
The ladies of Medusa are proof that you can be a
4 6 | J I U J I T E I R A MAGAZINE | JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM badass, dangerous woman and still be absolutely
gorgeous! With so much beauty around, you
would think this was a beauty pageant, not a
Jiu-Jitsu tournament. We are proud of our sisters
who represented women's BJJ with excellency at
the historical inaugural event (turn to page 8). Our
very own King with a "Q", Blanca Marisa Garcia (in
purple) was there covering all the excitement and
getting a mini well-deserved vacay in paradise.
3. DENMARK: Moms can be Jiu-Jitsu champs too!
Jiujiteiras Karin Ausum Vilandt and Trine Knak
Rasmussen pose with their new shinning medals
and precious little ones. These women are setting
the right example for their babies. We applaud you!
4. BRASILIA, BRASIL:
The lady who started it all, Professora Yvone Duarte
spending some quality time on the mats with her
adorable grandson, Felipe. Don't miss our exclusive

interview with Yvone coming out in
November. It's legendary!
5. HIPS AND GRIPS CAMP, CO:
Take your Jiu-Jitsu to new heights
by attending the next Hips & Grips
Jiu-Jitsu & Climbing Camps For
Women happening in January
(page 7). Learn to ice climb in one
of the most beautiful settings in the
world with pro climber, Heidi Wirtz
and train with world champions
and competitors, Professoras
Amanda Loewen & Vanessa Waltz.
Meet your camp hosts: Professora
Amanda, Almine Barton &
Professora Vanessa. Sign-up soon!
Their last camp sold out:
facebook.com/hipsandgrips
6. PENSACOLA BEACH, FL:
Considered by many a historical
figure of women's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu,
Professora Letícia Ribeiro recently
attended Master Royce Gracie's
Gathering Network Meeting 2021.
We are proud of you Professora!

JIUJITEIRAS AROUND THE WORLD SUBMISSION:
To be featured in this section, e-mail a photo (high res images with
300dpi print better) of yourself and your BJJ sisters training, include
names and gym location to: [email protected]

JIUJITEIRAMAGAZINE.COM | J I U J I T E I R A MAGAZINE | 47

Your PHOTOGRAPHERBOOK
PROFESSIONAL JIUJITSU MATCH

BLANCA MARISA GARCIA

Event Dates: December 8th-12th, 2021
Anaheim Convention Center

CONTACT BLANCA MARISA GARCIA OR KINGS TABLE STUDIOS FOR BOOKING RATES & INFORMATION

@blanca_marisa_garcia [email protected] @kingstablestudios

kingstablestudi.s....

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