Simple Self Defense- The Centerline Principle

Feb. 26, 2011 - PRLog -- Self Defense and the Centerline Principle

Self defense should be instinctive and easy to remember. The centerline principle is effective and easy to recall under stress. Draw an imaginary line down the center of the human body and you will find the most vulnerable areas to attack:

•   Eyes
•   Nose
•   Throat
•   Sternum
•   Solar Plexus
•   Groin

During a violent encounter we experience an instinctual response for self protection known as the “fight or flight response”. Our brains sense anxiety and fear and activate this primal survival instinct that has assisted man to survive since his creation. Some of the changes we experience are:

•   Senses become increasingly alert
•   Adrenaline floods the bloodstream to overcome fatigue
•   Breathing becomes shallow to speed oxygen to the muscles
•   Sugars are converted to fuel for quick energy
•   Digestion is stopped so blood can be redirected to the muscles and brain
•   Blood clotting mechanisms are activated to protect from excessive blood loss

As you can see, a lot happens in a very short amount of time. Add to this the unpredictability and chaotic nature of violence and it’s easy to understand why there’s no need to overload our minds even more with complicated martial arts or self defense techniques. Most scholars agree that man is at least 2.5 million years old and some believe possibly as old as 7 million. Regardless of whom you believe, we’ve been around awhile for a reason.

Many people overcomplicate self defense as if there is something mystical about it. History has proven that it’s so easy, even a caveman can do it. What will separate you from your attacker will be your dedication to sound principles and sheer will to survive.

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Empower Defense and Life Skills specializes in self defense, crime prevention, firearms, organizational safety as well as personal and professional development programs.