Self Defense Tips: How to Be Fearful But Effective

Imagine being in the jungle while facing a charging lion. The sun is hot on your head and arms. The air is thick with the smell of dust. Your focus narrows to the beast which is heading directly toward you. Your heart is beating wildly as you raise your gun, only to find that your hands are shaking as you try to take aim. Now what?

In danger situations humans typically either run for safety or stand their ground and prepare to meet the danger head-on. Standing one’s ground often calls for taking drastic action. Fortunately, while that action can be sub-lethal, it is certainly a challenge for many women.

• In a sticky situation, the first thing to do is to breathe. That’s right. Take a few deliberate breaths while you center yourself and assess the situation.

• Remember that the bad guy(s) are also likely to be a bit nervous. If you can calm yourself, and breathing is one of the very best ways to do that, you will already be one up on the situation.

• Some people have found themselves in a sort of meditation in motion. If that happens to you, there is one caution: be sure to keep your eyes open.

• Senses are often heightened in highly charged situations, making you sensitive to smells or sounds. Sometimes the senses are deadened as awareness becomes acutely focused on what is extremely important and coming right at you.

• If or when you have to fire your weapon, take a breath, then slowly let the breath out as you squeeze the trigger. While it is impossible to hold completely still, it will help steady your hands and arms. Although your heart may seem to be hammering uncontrollably in your chest, you can control your breathing while meeting the challenge.

• If your initial Taser shot misses, reload the cartridge, breathe deliberately and take aim again. When the attacker comes close enough for contact, pull the trigger again. You won’t miss.

Just as slightly built women have lifted vehicles to save a loved one, gentle-natured people of all ages and sizes have survived dangerous situations by staying cool and responding appropriately.

What should you do? Simple as 1-2-3.

Breathe.
Focus.
Respond.