By: Rashmi Negi

It is always better to be mindful and prepared instead of being in an unprepared and compromising position. Mugging, taunting, or any form of harassment can make a person feel helpless and isolated. It is always good to be prepared for the worst and learn to keep yourself safe regardless of your location. Often people emphasize that learning martial arts, judo, jiu-jitsu, karate, boxing, and other practices are useful for self-defense. These practices are great tools, but it does depend on personal interest, financial constraints, and time.

Prevention is the Best Self-Defense

There are some basic ways anybody can learn to keep themselves safe and sound. Be mindful of your surroundings by staying cautious and alert. It is good to be around well-lit spaces whenever walking outside, and always keep a pepper spray available in your vehicle or on you. Another suggestion is to whistle to your car and/or jingle your keys. Avoid walking alone after dark and always add emergency numbers on the speed dial of your phone in case you are in a situation where you feel threatened.

Self-Defense Moves

Through practice, one can gain control and balance in their body and protect themselves with the following moves. If the attacker approaches, identify all the possibilities to remain safe. If running is an option, always go for it; otherwise, hold your ground.

· Clench your fist and hit from the bottom, an action like a swinging hammer. Then kick their groin with full force.

·If the attacker’s face isn’t covered or blocked, go for a palm-heel strike. Keep your fingers pointed up and hand flexed backward, then hit through the palm’s heel into the opponent’s nose or jaws and immediately pull back, then repeat.

Practice these moves at home so that you become confident in utilizing these moves if the need arises.

Learn more about self-defense at SEPS that offers a free online course to predict, identify, prevent, and avoid violence.

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