Self defense isn’t karate or martial arts, it’s the simple art of defending yourself. You don’t have to learn a high kick or an eagle claw to do that. All you have to do is know your strengths and weaknesses, make precise movements and be alert, at all times. If you’re one who’s expecting us to give you tips on how to rip out an attacker’s heart or intestines, how to crush every bone in their body, you’re in the wrong place. Our job here is to tell you exactly what will work for you in a vulnerable situation, and how you must react without harming yourself.
Trust Your Instincts
Nothing, we mean absolutely nothing, is louder than a woman’s instinct. If you have a bad feeling, it’s probably not paranoia. And even if it is, putting some distance or finding shelter in a crowded place for the time being will not do you any harm. But never disregard your instinct. Most women who join self defense courses do so after they’ve been attacked or witnessed someone be attacked around them. And every time you’ll hear the woman go, ‘I had a bad feeling’. Listen to the voice that’s in your head and don’t delay your response just because you don’t want to act/ sound crazy because crazy is better than being assaulted, any day.
Practice Target Denials
Self defense isn’t about fighting your opponent when they attack you. More often than not, it is about avoiding your targeting from getting to you. If you ever find yourself in close proximity with another person who seems pervasive, or gives you the creeps, it is best to put some distance between the two of you. This could mean walking over to the other side of the road, finding a group of people to stand with, or simply enter any cafe or restaurant that you find nearby. If you’re in a building waiting for the elevator when a presence disturbs you, do not get on the elevator. Do not take the fire escape. Wait for the next elevator, this will not only save you from getting into a compact space with the person but also clarify your doubts about them. You can also contact the building’s private security London to escort you to your house if you still do not feel safe.
Be Confident
Even when you aren’t, even when you’re shaking on the inside, don’t let your attacker know they’ve got some kind of control over you. But this does not mean that you must exude overconfidence or provoke them with your words or actions. Instead, be a target they do not want to pursue. It is usually the meek, easily frightened and fumbling women that attackers target. When you’re out, ensure that you walk confidently and are aware of your surroundings at all times.
Maintain a Non-Confrontational Stance
You’re not equipped to be in a fight, nor can you win one if your opponent is bigger and stronger. Then how do you defend yourself? With the element of surprise. If you assume any fighting stance, your attacker will be more persuaded to attack you in a fight you cannot win. Instead, stay composed, assume a relaxed stance with your hands up and open that might make your attacker feel like you’re going to fight back. This is when poking your fingers directly into his eyes or nose can give you the right opportunity to get out of there. Run, do not look back.
Opt for Simple Techniques
You do not want to fly and kick your attacker. You do not want to beat him till he bleeds. What you want is to get out of the situation with minimal damage to you. This is why following through with any martial art moves will not work in this scenario. Instead, it is crucial to keep your movements small but effective. One such move can be striking the nose of your opponent with the heel-palm of your hand. This won’t hurt your hand but will definitely break his nose or make it bleed if done with the right force. You can also strike two fingers right into his eyes or drive your knee right into their groin.
Apart from these, staying vigilant, and keeping a safe distance from creeps is extremely important.