Self-defense In A Woman's World!

SELF-DEFENSE IN A WOMAN'S WORLD!
by Sensei Mitch McConnell

Common sense approaches for women to avoid attack

Here are 10 rules for avoiding attack. (This list was not prepared by martial artists; it was prepared by law enforcement experts.)



1) Try to travel with a companion at all times;

2) Install a quality security system in your home and USE IT;

3) Always do things like visiting an ATM during the daytime in a populated area;

4) Be strategic about where you park your vehicle and make certain it's well lighted, populated and close to your destination;

5) If your car breaks down don't accept help from strangers- be sure to have 24 hr. roadside assistance;

6) This one may be obvious but, don't ever open the door for unexpected visitors even if they're in uniform of authority (use common sense!);

7) Always carry a cell phone with an emergency number, speed loaded;

8)If you're out at a bar, don't get intoxicated and don't leave with anyone but a close personal friend (This is where the highest percentage of sexual assaults come from.);

9) Pay attention, at all times, that no one is following you home when you are driving or walking (if you sense that you are being followed, avoid going straight home and return to populated area; call police in obvious situations.);

10) Remember that awareness of your surroundings is the ultimate key. Keep head high and do not look at the ground as you walk. Project confidence with good posture and strong strides. When approaching your vehicle, make certain to have your keys in hand. Avoid fumbling through your purse.

And, #11: Always be willing to give up possessions to save your life. Never get into a vehicle (even your own!) with a kidnapper. No matter what they might threaten you with.

Yes, it's ok to scream for help!

Should I study martial arts?

Yes, that would be great but in our modern society the reality is plain and simple - YOU'VE GOT TO BE READY, NOW! It will take time to master any fighting skill.


What do I do if I don't have time to learn Martial Arts?

First of all, you do have the time to learn some easy and amazingly effective self-defense techniques.

There is probably a wonderful short-term class for street-effective woman's defense available at a local police department or gym.

...

Here are a few additional tips that could get you out of a threatening situation.

1) An attacker's eyes are their most vulnerable weakness - carrying a can of pepper spray or mace is about the smartest thing any woman can do. This will buy time for an escape.

2) Carry your keys in your hands at all times. These can be used as a weapon (held through fingers in fist).

3) Pistols and stun guns are another option. However, make certain you have the legal right to carry these weapons. Aside from that, there is the need for training and practice using these tools.

Do not skip on that last step. It's just as easy for an untrained gun carrier to hurt himself or herself, as it is to take-out the attacker. Also, of concern here is the potential of the attacker gaining possession of the weapon.

In addition, this is the time to take some form of fitness class to develop a sense of personal empowerment and physical strength.

Radiate an air of self-assurance as you move. An attacker is always looking for an easy mark.

Learn to develop a calm, focused
mind so that you can react -- in spite of
fear -- with decisiveness and efficiency.
(This will take time, effort and discipline.)

Your mindset will be your ultimate weapon or your greatest liability and biggest enemy. It's time to take charge and get your body and mind ready to face most anything anyone sends your way.

Ultimately we must not lose sight that the greatest accomplishment of all would be to use your awareness and tact to avoid any possible confrontation.

In addition, men should study this info out of concern for their daughter, mother, sister, wife or girlfriend whom they should encourage to ready themselves.

The solution is to be proactive and learn what you can. Keep it simple and applicable and that alone will provide the necessary confidence to ward-off potential cowardly attackers.

Release fear and live with confidence and you give evil nothing to latch onto.