A critical warrior skill is to be ever vigilant, expecting the unexpected, at any time, place or situation -- most especially when the enemy expects the Warrior’s guard to be down. But it must never be down! It’s the difference between life and death.
Mental and physical advanced preparation is key to protect the warrior’s life and the lives of others. Advanced preparation teaches the warrior instinctively what to do when the “moment of truth” arises.
The warrior reacts quickly and properly, because they’ve thought it through and practiced what they would do, well in advance. It’s all about advanced preparation – mentally and physically.
So think deeply about the things you learn in this lesson, as if your life depends on it, because it does.
Self-Defense
Self-defense is defined as the manner or tactics a person uses to peacefully alter a hostile situation. Keep in mind that the purpose is to defend yourself at close range against a physical assault without using traditional weapons or handheld devices.
This concept involves being aware of your surroundings, recognizing pre- violence indicators and practicing anticipated reactions. Remember, how you carry yourself may determine whether you are viewed as an easy or challenging target.
Self-defense is accomplished by using a combination of your communication skills, physical presence and actions. Communication is more than just your words or WHAT you say; it also includes voice qualities, gestures, nonverbal cues and body movements.
In fact, be mindful of HOW you communicate since 93% of messages are received and interpreted based on HOW something is said rather than on WHAT is said. Remember, if an individual becomes verbally hostile, your goal should be to professionally redirect the other person’s behavior using your communication skills.
Along with your communication skills, you must use your physical presence and actions. If your communication skills fail to diffuse a violent situation, you may need to use appropriate self-defense measures.
Mental Preparation
Mental rehearsal, practice and your readiness level can help with your preparation and may mean the difference between escaping or dying from sudden violence. There are three main elements involved in dealing with treacherous attacks.
First, mentally rehearsing different scenarios can help calm you down and keep you focused if you are attacked. Second, practicing your reactions and responses will help them become automatic.
Lastly, ensuring your readiness level is at its peak by being both physically fit and mentally prepared. When a person is mentally prepared, survival is not an issue and the focus is on winning.
A person greatly increases their odds of surviving a dangerous encounter with adequate mental and physical preparation and having the determination to defeat hostile threats.