Matters of the Psyche

Attitude comes from several sources, your view of the world, your view of yourself, and your values system. In this blog, I will break down how those sources effect your attitude, and how to develop the right attitude for surviving a fight. This post isn’t a magic pill. Reading it will not automatically make you a great fighter. However, it will help you to begin the process of steeling your mind for the fight you may one day need to survive.

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Self-Defense: The Sound of Safety

Have you ever heard the saying “silence is golden”? I suppose when you are sitting up in a mountain cabin escaping from the hectic pace of everyday life, the saying is still true. Also, keeping your mouth shut can keep you out of a lot of trouble. But there is a sinister side to that phrase as well. Silence is the criminal’s best friend.

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Martial Arts: Not Just A Guy Thing

Jane's guardians were thinking about putting her into dance or gymnastics, but since they already have George in Taekwondo, they thought they would let Jane try a class. Jane LOVED IT! She wasn’t shy or frightened at all, in fact, she was one of the most engaged students during that class. I talked with her guardians after the class, and they were excited about getting her officially signed up. If only it could have lasted…

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5 Reasons to Start Martial Arts Today!

Do you lack confidence? Training in the martial arts can help you feel sure of yourself through physical activity and social interaction. Does your child struggle with respect? They can learn the value of each human life and respect and honor for elders through the tradition and formality of the martial arts. Do you need self-discipline? Training with others will help you to see the benefits of perseverance, goal setting, and accomplishment.

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Self-Defense: Stronger People Are Harder to Kill

"I know from experience that it can be hard to get motivated even with good reasons. Don’t get wrapped up in the idea that you have to train for HOURS a day to become some sort of gymnast or body builder. Start small… spend 10 minutes a day doing some basic exercises and stretches. Squats, lunges, pushups, crunches/sit ups, all seem like simple things, but you don’t need a full home gym and fancy shoes to make yourself safer and more capable."

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Self-Defense: What is Worth Dying For?

You enter a deserted little restroom at the back of the store and proceed to take care of nature’s call. While in your stall, you hear someone else enter the restroom, but don’t really pay much attention. This is a busy gas station, particularly at this time of day. You finish your business and go to the sink to wash your hands, as you look down to turn the water on, a vice-like hand grabs your shoulder and spins you into the wall! You are surprised to see a skinny man in his forties wielding a small knife and staring at you with a mixture of fear and anger in his eyes. “GIVE ME YOUR STUFF!” He says...

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Self-Defense: How Not To Look Like A Victim

According to researchers Marcus Felson and Ronald Clarke, opportunity plays a role in almost every crime. In theory, by reducing the possible opportunities for a crime, you can reduce the statistical probability of becoming a victim. People apply this theory every day by locking their homes and vehicles, installing alarm systems, and hiding valuables out of sight. So what about you?

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