Self Defense is a very broad category.  Being able to return home safe and avoid an attack all together is something we all hope for.   To defend and protect ourselves or our loved ones in the ever changing times and situations is the ulitimate goal.  If we agree up to this point great, now lets look at some of the issues and possibilities of self defense in a greater depth.  To think that Self Defense only involves learning a few techniques and your good to go would not only be detrimental but could cost you your life!  Read on…

Awareness is a key element to survival in all situations.  When talking about an enemy or assailant this practice must be exercised at all times.  Your enemy is looking for an opening, he is watching you and will strike without hesitation the moment you are no longer aware of your surroundings.  Your body launguage is very important as well especially in the case of women.  A predator is looking for a weak, easy, and unexpecting target.   Your attitude could possibly keep an attack from happening by being confident, but not provocative, firm and assertive.  Remaining as calm as possible in your given circumstance is crucial as it will allow you to make rational decisions. 

If traveling take the time to plan ahead and find out as much as you can about your destination.  There are areas in cities and towns around the world that are crawling with “night life”.   Be aware that muggers, criminals and potential predators know about these hangouts and know that outsiders will visit.  The bottom line is that awareness should be exercised at all times.  This does not mean you should be paranoid everywhere that you go only be aware of your surroundings.

Things to consider:

Walking on a busy street or a quite street, never walk around the corner blindly.  Take the corner wide.

Walking down a sidewalk or alley always walk in the middle.

Keep your eyes open and your mouth shut.  Talking on cell phones takes away from your ability to access any events that happen around you at lightning speed.  Save the small talk for a secure place.

Parked cars can pose a threat too, attackers can hide inside or between them.  They can also be used as a barrier between you and an attacker if you remain calm and are thinking clear.

Besides awareness one will gain confidence through training.  Your goal is not to stand toe to toe with an attacker and trade fire power with him.  We do not want to stay and trade punches but to explosively attack and if need be dominate and destroy your enemy.  Then move on quickly.  In combat, technique and tactics will vary and differ with each situation.  What works in one situation may not work in another.  Things to consider:  How profecient are you with the self defense techniques?  Is your “Self Defense” training based on real life threats?  What are you defending; property or life?  Are weapons involved?  What is the intent of the opponent?  To rob you? To detain you, to kill you?  Your options could vary depending on your situation.  Immerse yourself in a good realistic Self Defense program and back yourself up with skills that give you confidence to walk through life with less worries!