Self Defense Starts In Your Head

Self defense is about much more than just carrying a weapon or taking martial arts classes. By far, the most important element is a direct result of your thinking. What does a “safety conscious” mindset look like?

The old adage forewarned is forearmed is a good place to start. Think about where you are going and what possible situations could arise. Once you have that in mind, turn your thinking toward ways to prepare for – or even avoid – what could happen. Sometimes a small decision made early averts disaster altogether.

Keep an eye out for an escape route. When driving a car through a dangerous patch, defensive drivers always look for a way out and they never give up. That means they don’t throw up their hands and quit when things get dicey. They keep on driving and looking for actions that would cause the least amount of damage.

Trust your instincts. If the hair on the back of your neck stands up, leave. If you get goose bumps on your arms, beat feet. Pay attention to the warning signs your body is sending. Sometimes your conscious mind may not even know what’s off, but something is and your unconscious is trying to warn you, so LISTEN.

Your body and mind are both loaded with sensors. Get the message, then take actions that will keep you safe.