I recently read a great paragraph in a book by Stuart Wilde, which I will quote below, called "Whispering Winds of Change". The chapter is entitled, "Minimalism: A Survival Technique for the Future". I feel it sums up the self defense that we teach quite well. Now the chapter is not about self defense, but it works.

"Minimalism in music is a composition, simple in structure and form, in which the main motif is repeated continuously, rather than the theme extrapolating outward to more and more complexity. In design and style, minimalism is expressed through the concept of using the simplest or fewest elements to create the maximum effect. Minimalism is uncluttered, often clean and pure, and is considered somewhat stark by some people. A typical minimalist home would have stone pieces of furniture-only as many as are absolutely necessary. The old traditional homes of Japan are models of minimalism: tatami mats , bare rooms, simple lines, and form."

Our self defense is based on gross body movements which is the natural movements of the body that can be performed in stressful situations, like when your life is on the line. It consists of the most effective and simple techniques to accomplish your goal, which is to survive. If it is over complicated it just will not work. Sure the complicated stuff looks cool but it is not effective. Just ask my sensei or anyone that has been in a fight for their life. KISS or, keep it simple stupid, is another way to put it. Minimal training for maximum effect; a hand full of techniques for a thousand situations. Just another couple of ways to describe what we teach. Minimalism is a beautiful thing and can be had or done by anyone, just like the self defense that we teach. I hope I made myself clear and you can see what I am trying to say.


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The Self Defense Company