Self-Defence Tips
Walking alone and feeling uncomfortable? Are you worried about a stranger on the bus? Anxious amongst the crowd? Many women have been there before. Self-defence classes/tips not only prepare a woman to defend herself physically — when needed — but also teach her not to view herself a victim.
Knowing how to assess any environment and situation is a valuable skill that most women (helper or not) should possess. By empowering yourself with self-defence skills, you may feel safer in precarious situations.
Some of the tips to follow should include:
Be aware of your environment:
You should always maintain awareness of your environment and be mindful of what is going on around you. If you sense potential danger, you can avoid it by being prepared to defend yourself. Stay in well-lit areas and try not to get distracted.
Follow your instincts:
Focus on how you react in different situations: your instinct is not usually wrong. If you see yourself in a situation where you have to defend yourself, try to trust your intuition.
Improve your body language:
When you walk with your shoulders back, your lungs get more oxygen, which makes you more aware of your surroundings. Try to move with confidence, chin up and shoulders back.
Use your eye contact:
The use of eye contact is a powerful thing and making use of eye contact with someone, allows them to know that you are aware of their presence. Avoiding eye contact can show you are being intimidated, and attackers may see you as an easier target.
Use your voice:
The voice is regarded as one of the most valuable assets when it comes to self-defence. Take a deep breath and shout “NO” or “STOP” as loud as you can. This will not only draw attention to your situation but will also scare the offender. Making use of your voice can also enhance your breathing rate, focus, and strength, helping you escape.
Learn to Defend Yourself:
The best way to learn to defend yourself physically is to take a self-defence course. Not only will you meet other people and have fun, but you’ll also learn some practical tips and tricks that will make you feel more confident if you’re feeling threatened.
When practising self-defence, it’s essential to keep in mind that size doesn’t always matter. Suppose your attacker is taller and stronger than you, use need to use what you have in your favour. Whether it’s your voice, your agility, or your intelligence, always try to stay calm and confident.
Alarms and whistles:
Alarms and whistles help warn others that you are being attacked. While they are useful in public spaces, don’t rely on them as your only form of self-defence because if there is no one around, they will be of no use.
