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The Five Fingers of Self-Defense

What is Self-Defense?


  • Self Defense is anything we think or do to increase our physical, mental, and emotional safety.

  • Self Defense thinking and behavior is assertive, rather than passive or aggressive.

  • Self Defense refers to rights and responsibilities we have in our relations with others. 



The Five Fingers of Self-Defense

Think • Yell • Run • Fight • Tell


Think


  • Assertiveness – Present yourself assertively: in voice, body and eyes.  

  • Awareness – Violence can come from strangers, acquaintances, friends, and family

  • Intuition – Listen to the messages your body sends about possible danger

  • Attitude – Believe you are worth defending and that you can do it!

  • Act – Take action!  Try something!  If it doesn’t work, change strategies.


Yell


  • Energy – Get energy flowing. Scare the attacker. Summon assistance.

  • Voice – Set limits, enforce personal boundaries, calm someone down, speak up for others, take charge of the situation.

  • Volume and Intensity – Adjust as needed.  Show you’re willing to cause a scene or show your ability to control the situation by communicating assertively


Run


  • Escape – Run away.  Avoid danger.  Get off the elevator.  Leave the relationship.   

  • Instincts – Trust them; Think “What do I need to be safe?” NOT “What will they think?”

  • Keep your Power – Believe that evasive action is brave and intelligent. 


Fight


  • Choose – Consider what is worth fighting for.  Are there other options?

  • Timing – Especially if they have a weapon. Pretend to cooperate to get them to put it down. When you choose your moment to respond, do not hold back!

  • Connect – Your strong natural weapons to their weak vulnerable areas (especially: eyes, throat, knees and groin).

  • Commit 100% – Bend your knees, Yell! Put your whole body behind your strike.


Tell


  • Heal – If you have experienced violence, it is helpful to talk about it with someone you trust.  It’s never too late to begin talking.

  • Break the Silence – Listen to others’ experiences.  Share your own.  Know you’re not alone in the fight to end violence.

  • Share – Share self-defense strategies, information, and success stories with others.

  • Be an Ally – Speak up for others.



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