Self-Defence Serving multidimensional purpose

When we hear the word 'self-defence', our ideas revolve around two things - defending and hitting. However, it is more than that.  

Whereas self-defence, serving a multidimensional purpose, should be beneficial to everyone, women in our country in particular need it more. Warrior Women Bangladesh (WWB) is one of the initiatives in the country to offer women basic self defence course.

Instructor Sensei Abdullah Mohammad Hossain wishes that he did not have to picture a society where self-defence would be so important for women. Unfortunately women need it now more than ever and they should be encouraged to take self-defence lessons.

However, self-defence is not only about techniques of defending oneself. A lot of things are involved, for example, increasing physical fitness, endurance level, improving reflex, etc. Hence, 'self-defence' can also be a great alternative for someone who wants to get in shape and improve their health.

For example, one of the members of Warrior Women Bangladesh says she realises she needs to increase her stamina. On the other hand, Josepha Elizabeth, another member of WWB, does not have trouble with stamina. But, she is facing difficulties with stretching. She also says that, after taking self-defence classes, confidence level increases too.

Now, if the focus is shifted from health to defending oneself, Sensei Abdullah Mohammad Hossain says, "Be vigilant all the time. At any position if you feel you are threatened, do not wait to see what happens next. Immediately, either you move from that place or take actions."

In order to take actions, one needs to be prepared. Therefore, it is better to take help from a professional, especially in the beginning. Not only one gets acquainted with the techniques, but also, one gets stronger too. It might be difficult in the beginning but, it is important that you do not give up.

After sixteen classes, WWB women have managed to master the art of breaking wood, which shows how impactful self-defence training can be on both physical and mental health. It can work as a stress-reliever as well.

Hence, we need to get out of our over-generalised idea of self-defence and stop treating it as a part of masculinity. It can be helpful in many ways and we should take it positively.

If anyone is looking for a place to get started, you can contact - facebook.com/KOFSGulshan