Volume 26

Self-defense classes have an array of positive benefits that include resilience and self-confidence. When my daughter was nine years old, I brought her into a safe house to teach a self-defense class with me. The women in the class did not believe the moves worked because their traffickers were bigger than them. My then nine-year-old daughter did all of the moves on me (I was double her size at the time), and the women understood that their size did not matter, but their training and confidence did. From that moment forward, I brought my daughter with me to all future classes.
Studies show that one in four women will become a victim in their lifetime, but when was the last time you thought about your own safety? Self-defense classes offer not only physical training, but also mental and emotional preparation, boosting confidence and resilience.
Mental and Emotional Preparation: Self-defense helps with your mental and emotional preparation by teaching you the hands-on moves by working with your brain-body connection to learn what to do in fight or flight. Statistically speaking, most women go into freeze mode when attacked. This is the most dangerous position to be in; however, studies show once you have taken a self-defense class, you will now go into fight or flight mode when being attacked. Why is fight or flight mode better? In an attack situation, the attacker will have you on the ground in less than 4 seconds. From what you know right now, are you going to be able to fight back or run away? In most cases, the answer is no. That is why taking a self-defense class is essential. By taking a self-defense class, you are preparing your mind for the worst-case scenario. Science shows that once your brain believes you have done something in the past, you are no longer afraid when that scenario comes up again. So, if you have practiced getting attacked with the right self-defense training, you won’t freeze and will react properly if the unfortunate situation occurs.
Confidence: When your confidence is higher, you are more aware of your surroundings, and being more aware of your surroundings will help with the need for self-defense.
Resilience: Many women I work with have been victimized in the past. Through self-defense training, these women are able to build their self-worth and their confidence. These women see that their past, while it changed them, does not define them, and they are able to move into the confidence and harmony they want in life. They no longer feel victimized and are able to help others through their growth.
Mood and Body: The workout not only helps with physical fitness, but also helps release endorphins, which help with enhancing your mood and happiness.
In the context of these empowering narratives, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of giving oneself grace throughout the self-defense journey. Acknowledging that learning and growth takes time allows individuals to approach their training with patience and self-compassion. Mistakes are inevitable, but they are valuable stepping-stones toward mastery. By integrating the concept of giving oneself grace, the self-defense journey becomes not just a path to physical preparedness but also a transformative experience, fostering resilience, confidence, and a deeper connection with one’s own capabilities.
The women I teach are able to build their confidence through mind-body connection with self-defense training. Take a self-defense class today and build confidence in your ability to respond in any situation.