It is a matter of self-preservation, and empowerment, to know basic self-defence techniques. Being able to think with a clear mind, whilst sorting through a myriad of “fight or flight” emotions could be the difference between getting stuck in a sticky situation and evading one.
Head up, shoulders square
Walk confidently – Criminal profiler reports have shown that attackers might reconsider you as a target if you look alert and confident.
However, in the unfortunate event that an attacker decides to follow through, you will need to know how to defend yourself.
Crouching tiger, hidden dragon…
When we face danger our body goes into what is known as “fight or flight mode”. This is a process whereby adrenaline and all sorts of other chemicals are released to ‘fuel’ us for what comes next. Our body literally redirects blood flow from a digestive tract to our muscles and limbs, so that we are supercharged to defend ourselves.
Even our senses go into ‘attack mode’, as fear urges them to listen more intently and to take in our surroundings to pinpoint danger zones. Our rational mind and lifelong principles draw back, as our primitive survival instincts push to the forefront. It is, therefore, of extreme importance for one to know basic self-defence techniques, to ensure the best judgment when our actions are controlled by fear.
Here’s a list of basic self-defence techniques that could save your life:
Blow to the shin
If someone attacks you from behind, lift your heel and grind it into the attacker’s shin, scraping it down the length of it. This will inflict a substantial amount of pain and discomfort to the assailant, as you assault the bone.
If you feel confident that you have done enough damage, flee the scene. Remember it’s about getting away, not winning.
Eye for an eye
You might be repulsed by the concept of poking someone’s eye out, but if your life was in jeopardy, then ‘opening a can’ on his hide, could be the deal breaker.
Grab your attacker by the ears. This will put your thumbs in line with the eye sockets. Push your thumbs into his eyes, and apply a substantial amount of pressure to injure him. Holding the attacker by the ears will ensure that you don’t lose your grip as he tries to avoid the assault.
Throat poke
If you are unable to pinpoint the windpipe’s location, grab the pipe and squeeze, as indicated in the image on the right.
Jab your finger, ideally not your thumb, between where the attacker’s neck ends and breastbone begins. If your attacker is male, this will be at the base of his Adam’s apple. Apply as much pressure as possible, as this will obstruct the windpipe, making it impossible for the assailant to breathe. Once you are satisfied that he has been incapacitated, make a run for it.
Block and hit
If your attacker strikes at you, raise an arm above your head to block the blow, and swing a punch with your other arm. Aim for the ribs, abdomen and torso or under the chin, to cause the most bodily harm.
Knee work
If you have the opportunity to knee your attacker, aim for the groin, abdomen and ribs. If you manage to get him on his knees or in a crouch-like position, knee him under the chin.
Choker
If your attacker manages to choke you, raise your arms above his and push down and away with your elbows. This should break the assailant’s hold. If you are unable to raise your arms to the top, wedge your arms from the bottom and force the attacker’s arms apart. If both efforts fail, go for the eyes.
The above is the very basic of self-defence techniques, and one should take extra precautions to avoid having to ever use them. Like staying clear of remote and poorly lit areas, not going out alone at night and walking widely around quiet corners to avoid an ambush.
Investing in self defence gear like pepper spray, a keychain alarms, retractable batons, stun guns, watching self-defence videos and professional classes will better equip you to protect yourself, should the need ever arise.
*Please note that using the male gender as an example of the attacker, does not imply that all attackers are male.
