Self-defense course

Module 3 — Hands-On Basics

Lesson 22 of 50Protecting your head

8 min

Dr. Mira explains · Module 3 — Hands-On Basics · Lesson 22

Dr. Mira explaining lesson 22: Protecting your head

Dr. Mira's selected Voice Calibration voice

Transcript

Hi, sweetheart. It's Dr. Mira. Welcome to lesson 22: Protecting your head. The simple cover that buys you time. Let me walk you through this properly, the way I would if we were sitting together. Everything starts with your base. Feet about shoulder width, one foot slightly back, knees soft. From that stance you can push, turn, or run. Go slowly. Do each movement ten times slow before you ever do it fast. Speed comes after the movement feels natural. Break grabs by moving against the thumb — that is the weakest point of any grip, every time, on both sides. Strike with the heel of your palm, not your knuckles. Your hand stays safe and you keep it available for pushing off and running. These are escape moves, not fighting moves. The goal is always to create one second of space and use it to get away. If you go down, tuck your chin and land on the meat of your arm and hip, never your head or a straight elbow. Practice with someone you trust, or in front of a mirror. Ten slow minutes a week beats one hard hour a month. Now here's how I want you to practice. Read the lesson once, picture yourself doing it, and then do it for real one time today. One repetition is enough to start. If it feels awkward the first time, that's normal. Awkward means new, not wrong. That's all for this one. Watch it as many times as you need. I'm so proud of you for being here.

What this lesson covers

The simple cover that buys you time.

Module goal: Build a few simple physical skills that still work when you are scared and shaking.

What you'll be able to do

Protect your head so you stay conscious and able to leave.

Key points

  • The cover buys seconds, and seconds are the whole game.

Step by step

  1. 1Both hands to the sides of your head, forearms forward.
  2. 2Elbows in tight, chin tucked.
  3. 3Move — never stand still in the cover.

Common mistakes

  • Turning your back and running blind into traffic.
  • Covering your face but leaving your temples open.

New York City scenario

Something is swung near you. You cover, move sideways, then run toward the lit corner.

Practice drill

Cover-and-step-sideways, twenty reps.

Quick check

What must accompany the cover?