CONNECTION MARTIAL ARTS

WELCOME TO

WHERE MARTIAL ARTS MEETS MENTAL HEALTH

Our Mission.

To make martial arts more inclusive, accountable, and accessible to those who may otherwise face barriers to participating in mainstream martial arts gyms.

Discover the power of martial arts to help you find connection.

Nicole Sawin (she/they), Owner/Operator and Founder

“I joined my first martial arts class because I wanted to learn how to embody confidence - and I got way more than I had hoped for. After years of feeling like there was something wrong with me because I did not find yoga or breathing techniques helpful when everyone else seemed to, for the first time in my life, I was able to just be in my body. I had abused it for so long - had done a lot to not feel connected to it - but through martial arts practice, I learned to feel powerful in my body, to celebrate it, to take care of it, to listen to it, to trust it, and to have compassion for it. I can’t begin to express how liberating that was and continues to be. Moreover, I learned how to be vulnerable and that helped me gain the courage to allow myself to actually engage in therapy. In this way, I experienced how martial arts and counselling can be a powerful combination.”

What are people saying?

  • I would like to say the BIGGEST thank you ever for providing an accountable space to practice martial arts and giving me the opportunity to build a stronger relationship with my body. I felt very unsafe in all dojos and programs that I joined in my adult life, and even as a child the locker room culture just sucked! I am so happy to be practicing something I love that makes me feel strong and healthy in such a kind community. I don't ever want to stop boxing with you.

    28-year-old, Women’s Kickboxing

  • Connection Martial Arts and Nicole are fantastic. The kickboxing classes are fun and empowering, and one heck of a great workout. Everyone is super supportive and welcoming. Nicole is very knowledgeable, easy to approach, and great at breaking down moves into easy-to-understand steps. Classes are fun, exciting, hilarious, and with an unexpected element of adventure--"OMG is that a freaking SWORD?!?!" ;) Overall, my experience has been amazing, and I can't wait for the next class!

    34-year-old, Women’s Kickboxing

  • I was nervous of the idea about meeting new people and putting myself out there at first, but once I met the lovely people I will be taking classes with I was immediately comfortable with the space and I was able to become fully engaged with what I was being taught rather then focusing on how I looked while doing it or whether I was being judged or not, due to the accepting and friendly environment Nicole and her team have created.

    17-year-old, Women’s Kickboxing

  • The classes are fun. The people are nice. I feel like I am in a safe space.

    35-year-old, All Bodies Kickboxing

  • I love the inclusive and accepting environment at Connections. Nicole does an amazing job of pushing you were you need it and allowing you space when you need it. My kids have a difficult time with many activities due to getting overwhelmed with the environment but they love kickboxing with Nicole because they feel supported and encouraged. I have already recommended it to multiple others who are now enjoying it as well.

    41-year-old, Women’s Kickboxing and Family Class

  • Connection and Nicole have been amazing! After having my first child this year it has given me a safe place to get a great workout in and to join into a wonderful community.

    30-year-old, Women’s Kickboxing

Our Services.

  • “I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.”

    BRENE BROWN

  • "Safety is not the absence of threat. It is the presence of connection."

    GABOR MATE