Rock bottom implies a hard abrupt end. A clear definable point at which things can’t get worse.

I realise I’ve been waiting for such a point, waiting for a clear moment where I can say, ‘ah ha! This is it, this is the lowest point of the dark night of my soul.’

But now I realise that the analogy of rock bottom is faulty…

A violent conflict is a serious event, you could face psychological, physical or legal consequences for your involvement - even if you didn't "start it'. You need to know what to do post conflict - what to do after a fight.

You need to know how to end a fight quickly: you have been pushed, punched, grabbed or charged at. Maybe a weapon is pulled. What do you do?

You will have to act fast, because the chances of an undesirable outcome for you is increasing exponentially every second.

I often joke with my students that ‘the best martial arts for self-defense is the 100-meter sprint’. But there is a lot of truth to it. If you are not being restrained, just run. Don’t think about it, just get out of there, fast ...

If you want to stay safe it really is simple, do not put yourself in danger in the first place. Obvious I know, but many martial arts instructors fail to emphasize this point. Preventing conflict is the best thing you can do to keep yourself safe.

Adults martial arts classes have been a lifesaver for me in many ways over the years. They have taught me discipline, resilience, and a way to navigate the chaos of conflict, both physical and mental.