Random thoughts

After years of contemplating on what form of Self defense to take up-opted for Krav Maga a few months ago. This was more to expend the excessive energy (or nervous energy, if I may be candid). Apart from increasing the fitness levels and the confidence to deal with unpleasant situation it has taught me to look at life differently and deal with it differently. While teaching, Sensei tell us ways and means to improve our execution and technique. But, what I realized that a lot of it when applied to life works beautifully. Business deals, dealing with people everything becomes simpler.
One of the key things is to understand that combat is spontaneous and you can’ predict what the opponent would do, all you can do is react. This is what happens in any situation, human behaviour cannot be gauged or pre-determined, happens only in novels and films . All you can do is react and that reaction can lead to just three outcomes…
• Release- you escape
• Overpower the opponent: You can either finish the opponent or maim him enough claim victory
• The opponent gets the better of you
Which is why it is essential to control your actions…never let the opponent’s moves intimidate you. Never let him come in the way of what you want to do. Look forward…not back at this movements. Most people try and intimidate by raising voices, using tough language and the overall body language. The idea is to hold your calm and not let them pierce through what your next move is. Your move should be to thwart the opponents move in your favor. Use his strength, his strength against him. Also, remember there are no rules in a fight, everything is justified…when in life and death…choose your life over his.
But one of the most important lesson is to walk away from conflict, unless essential…don’t spoil for a fight. And, remember you are your only true opponent, you know what you are going to do and you know how to thwart it.
Masakatsu Agatsu. (True victory over one’s self)