I know, when you hear the word self-defense you probably imagine yourself kicking some ‘chair area.’ This is the term Rupert Grint comically came up with in an interview. Much like Bruce Lee in the movie ‘Enter the Dragon,’ but hold on daredevil. The wonders of martial arts and kung fu are there to explore. This doesn't mean you have to follow the steps of the martial artist to value his ideas, way of life and gain valuable inspiration.
There are many ways to protect yourself from harm. As many martial arts schools claim, it all starts from the inside. Proper self-defense is not only about your physical fitness, agility or raw strength. It's also about the way you perceive the world around you, avoid threatening situations and keep your cool.
Prevention First
Getting violent when you have the chance is not something that any school of martial arts will teach you. Actually, fighting and self-defense techniques are mostly based on deep philosophy and mindfulness. Consider it a way to clear and strengthen the mind as much as the body. Therefore, avoid physical confrontation when possible. If you follow the teachings of Kung Fu, or any other martial art, you’ll be able to prepare yourself for dangerous situations and properly analyze your position.
Apart from taking all personal security measures, always try to calmly avoid danger and talk your way out of trouble. You never know, the person that’s invading your personal space and threatening you, might have other issues. They may also be easily influenced when faced with a dominant personality.
Martial Arts & Kung Fu
If reasoning with someone always worked, the world would be a safer place. Sometimes, you won’t have any other choice but to engage in physical contact. Knowing your way around to inflict some pain and getting back to safety is what you learn in martial arts schools. If you decide to join some of your local martial arts clubs, I guarantee that you’ll get a lot more than you hoped for.
There are many martial arts schools and teaching variations. Ask any practitioner of martial arts in Sydney and they will tell you that Kung Fu is primarily considered a discipline that involves learning and practice. It's hard work and you'll need a lot of patience and energy. If you decide to sign up for any of these disciplines, you’ll benefit from their influence in many areas of your life. Not just the physical strength and sharp mind. Keep in mind that a sharp mind and sharp tongue are not the same thing. If you go through life making sarcastic commentary, I must break it to you that you’re not actually a Kung Fu master.
Specific Self-Defense Moves
You should always specify what you’re looking to get from a class. Determine if you're interested in learning a few basic self-defense moves or taking it up as a hobby. The practice involves physical challenges, but also some deep thinking and self-searching. I will share a few examples of examples of effective and quick self-defense moves that will offer you enough time to leave your attacker behind. They will be gasping for air and trying to pick up the shattered pieces of their pride.
If your arms are free, you have few moments to decide where to strike. The head is your best bet. A blow to the ears or poke in the eyes will hurt, disorient and slow down the attacker. Moreover, use your elbow to punch the attacker’s temple if you calculate that you can reach it. If the attacker comes from your back, lean forward and relax your body. Sudden loss of balance will leave the attacker open for a counterattack. This gives you the possibility to punch the stomach with your elbow, or turn around and leg-punch them to the ground.
Conclusion
You have many options and techniques when it comes to learning basic moves of self-defense. Know that most require you to have a strong spirit and calm mind. In this respect, dedicating time in your life to practice martial arts, yoga and meditation is extremely useful. It'll help you when, and if, you find yourself face to face with an attacker.
About the Author
Elise Morgan is a beauty, fashion and health writer. She'ls also a regular contributor at a new fitness blog, Ripped.