Self-defence and Its Importance for Women in India
In an endeavour to break gender stereotypes and to ensure that women find their inner confidence, Grand Master Akshar at Akshar Yoga, Bangalore is organising a Self-Defence Training Camp for Women on International Women’s Day, the 8th of March 2017 from 7 AM ~ 9 AM at Cubbon Park, to enable them to proactively empower themselves with necessary safety measures to overcome tricky situations. To that end, I was approached in the capacity of a Digital Influencer to share my views on Self-defence and its importance for Women in India.
1. How important is it to be self equipped in the city?
Tanya Fontes: India’s standoff with grave gender violence has significantly increased in the past few years. And, we are only made aware of the few who decide to stand up and raise their voices against this vehemence. This is why self-defence for women is indispensable. It really is all about the confidence with which you can face your attacker and disarm and immobilise them. Your attacker may come unnoticed, from just any corner of the street. Or your attacker maybe someone you knew, someone you trusted. You may even be in a situation where you end up facing a group or a person with a weapon. The attack can be fatal and your survival may depend on your ability to defend yourself. Learning self-defence from a professional will empower you with the ability to use your hands and feet with a certain swiftness when your life depends on it, and emerge unscathed from an undesirable situation.
2. Share your opinions on precautionary measures for women.
Tanya Fontes:
- Keep a check when walking on the road to avoid groping from behind.
- Shout out ‘STOP’ in a loud and aggressive voice when you need to.
- Stay fit enough to run fast.
- Note down the number of the cab when travelling alone.
- Enroll for self-defence classes and learn several techniques to physically fight your attacker.
Opt for training in basic karate, kickboxing, or traditional stick fighting {using lathi}.
3. Share your views on the initiative taken by Grand Master Akshar to empower women for a powerful nation.
Tanya Fontes: In times like this, this is a commendable initiative. Self-defence empowers you and gives you the speed and wit you need to escape from traumatic situations when you face an attacker. When you train your body and mind, you will be more equipped to apply these skills to get out of such undesirable situations.
4. One message that you would want to convey to the women in your city.
Tanya Fontes: Self-defence is not just a tool for protecting yourself. It girds you with self-confidence that can help you achieve a lot more, knowing that you can defend yourself whenever needed. This surety will make you braver and smarter. Be Aware ~ Act Smart ~ Be Safe.
Tanya Fontes, Health & Lifestyle Blogger at Urban Diaries on Self Defence for Women
What are your views on the importance of self-defence training? Please share in the comments section below.
Kudos ~ great initiative! Although, it’s not just self defence one needs to train in… It’s also about self control, body discipline, and mind discipline.
Thank you for sharing, Sunaina.
Let’s “hope for peace but prepare for a war”… as the more we sweat in peace the less we bleed in war! ✨ You are an inspiration, Tanya. Looking forward to many more such shares…
Oh, so sweet! Thank you for dropping by, Komal.
The number of times I check Urban Diaries weekly for new posts may be triple figures (haha!) BUT I’m never disappointed! The anticipation, of course, makes every post that much more sweet! ❤️
Thank you very much, Ruchi. Your words encourage me a lot!
A little off topic… but I can’t even imagine how much knowledge you possess with regard to the skill of navigating the fashion industry ~ how to pose, how to promote your work, and so on. You’re such an inspiration to us all, Tanya! ❤️❤️❤️
It’s comments like yours that put a hop in my step and keep me going, Kiara!
Such a beautiful share! Loved hearing your voice… 🙂 By the way, I definitely wouldn’t be ready to be photographed/shoot at 6 am (yes, I regularly view your IG stories)… but you look amazing!
Thank you for sharing your wonderful thoughts, Sonali.
I am so glad to finally be able to see this piece! 😀 Was so excited and happy for you when it rolled out, congrats on the big milestone! ❤️ Keep growing and keep motivating!
Thanks much, Meghna! You’re very kind.
This is such an incredible opportunity! Thank you for the effort and dedication you put into your responses… Also wanted to let you know that your blog is beautifully designed, and every single post is amazingly curated! 🙂
Deeply value your warm and heartfelt appreciation, Mehendi.
Love the kurta (it’s beautifully detailed in its print) and aesthetic backdrop. And, I’m glad to see you be a part of something so meaningful! ❤️
Thank you, Yasmin! I truly treasure your appreciation.
Such a beautiful share, and even more beautiful message attached to it! ✨ As always, you look vibrant and elegant, Tanya. No doubt there are special memories are attached to this shoot…
You’re such an incredibly thoughtful person, Vyshnavu. Have a beautiful day!
So gracious of you to share this video with everyone .. true boss lady. Your guidance may have led to many more women being made aware of the importance of Self Defence Classes. ✨
You’re very kind, Jayesh. Thank you!
Wow ~ beautiful kurta you have on, and you are looking gorgeous! Also, this is a great post; happy to see your achievements roll on this year… Keep inspiring!
Thank you very much, Bhavya. I’m touched!
To my current understanding, first and foremost self-defence is a flow of awareness and constant choices. Non-stop observations (internal and external ones), decisions and adjustments (from minor to major ones). No day is perfect, but all those tiny choices and awareness affect how ready you are every day to face whatever is coming your way.
As I enjoyed reading/viewing your post, I’ve no doubt you enjoyed writing for/shooting this project… And, recalling such awesome memories, must feel lovely!
Quite right, Subadra. Thank you so much for sharing!
Ahh ~ what a lovely kurta to go with a lovely message. The video seems like the recognition from Akshar Yoga was most well deserved… and I’m so glad to see you do as well as you are, Tanya!
I’m overwhelmed, dear Chandni, for you heartfelt wonderful words for me!
Such a beautiful contribution, which was no doubt a wonderful experience to capture! Gratitude and humble acceptance of your achievements is the key to success… which you seem to embody beautifully, Tanya. ❤️
You are a beautiful and sensitive soul, Reshma. I’m humbled by your love.
Beautiful video, just like you and your lovely kurta! Add to that, you are humble and kind. 🙂 Meri aap se milne ki tamanna aur zyada zor pakad rahi hai…
I am equally looking forward to meeting lovely and affectionate you, Manjula. And, thank you so much for your appreciation!