Unbreakable Self-Defence

When we think about self-defence, we often imagine physical techniques for striking or escaping. Those skills matter, of course. But self-defence can offer something much wider than a set of emergency responses. Taught in the right way, it can become a practical, empowering and supportive tool for people actually recovering from traumatic experiences such as assault or abuse.

I've seen it happen many times with my own clients and students, in both self-defence and martial arts; watching people grow with confidence and shed old beliefs that no longer serve them, is one of the joys of my work.
In this article, I've gone through the various ways in which learning self-defence - when taught with care and sensitivity - can become a valuable part of the healing journey and a powerful step towards renewed confidence and resilience. You can read the article here: https://www.unbreakableselfdefence.com/post/how-self-defence-can-support-healing-after-trauma

How Self-Defence Can Support Healing After Trauma Practical skills, emotional confidence and a safer connection with the bodyWhen we think about self-defence, we often imagine physical techniques for striking or escaping. Those skills matter, of course. But self-defence can offer something much wider than a set of emergency responses. Taught in the...

One question I’m often asked in classes is why we practise palm-heel strikes instead of punching with a closed fist. It’s a great question, especially because clenching our fists can feel like an instinctive response when we are frightened or under pressure.

The problem is that punching without protection can easily injure the small bones in the hand. Boxing gloves are designed to protect the hand during sport, but in real-life self-defence we want to use the strongest parts of the body in the safest and most effective way possible.

That’s why the palm heel is such a useful technique. The base of the palm is strong, natural and much less likely to get injured, while still allowing someone to create space and interrupt an attack if they need to. In a self-defence situation, it can be directed towards vulnerable areas of the face, such as under the chin or under the nose, to help create an opportunity to get away.

In empowerment self-defence, we always focus on using strong parts of the body against vulnerable areas, giving participants practical tools that are simple, realistic and effective.

Lovely feedback from a recent attendee of our last 6-week course in Women's Self-Defence.

The next course starts 13th September - for more information and to book, visit https://www.unbreakableselfdefence.com/womens-self-defence-5-week-course

Can self-defence be part of healing after abuse?

This week, I was inspired by a BBC article about Counter Force, a self-defence organisation in Wales offering supportive sessions for survivors of abuse.

What really stood out was their focus on creating a safe, supportive space where humour, laughter and community can all play an important role in healing. That sense of peer-to-peer connection is a key part of trauma-informed practice, helping participants feel understood, supported and less alone.

Their work highlights something I feel passionate about: self-defence can be about much more than physical skills — it can help build confidence, connection and recovery from trauma.

'Self-defence classes saved me after being abused' A self-defence class is helping those who have experienced abuse regain their confidence.

Just a friendly reminder — there’s only one day left to book a place on our Empowerment Self-Defence for Girls workshop at the discounted early bird price of just £10. We’d love to see you there, so don’t miss your chance to join us!

I'm excited and privileged to be running a self-defence session at local fundraising event organised by raising money for the charities and

Sat 5th September - put the date in your diary ladies! x

After hearing from local parents — and feeling the same worries myself as my Year 6 daughter gets ready to start secondary school in September — I’ve created a friendly empowerment and self-defence workshop for girls aged 11–12.

The session is age-appropriate and supportive, introducing self-defence in a sensitive, empowering way. Girls will learn practical tools to recognise risk, set boundaries and respond with more confidence.

📅 Saturday 5th September from 9am–11.30am
📍 St Anne’s Community Hall, Letchworth Road, LE3 6FN

More details and booking here: https://www.unbreakableselfdefence.com/empowerment-self-defence-for-girls

I’m never especially comfortable promoting myself, but I know that booking onto a self-defence course can feel like a bit of a leap of faith.

You might be wondering: Will it be right for me? Will I feel comfortable? Can I really learn useful skills in a short space of time?

That’s why I’m so grateful for the kind 5-star reviews people have taken the time to leave for Unbreakable Self-Defence. I hope they offer reassurance that the courses are practical, evidence-based and accessible - without feeling overwhelming or intimidating.

My aim is always to teach self-defence in a way that feels empowering, not fear-based. It’s not just about physical techniques; it’s also about confidence, boundaries, recognising red flags, understanding body language and learning simple ways to create a safer opportunity to get away if needed.

If you’re thinking about joining a course but aren’t sure where to start, please feel free to get in touch. I’m always happy to answer questions and help you find the best fit.

Not every warning sign looks obvious at first.

That’s why I’m looking to run a summer self-defence workshop for girls moving from one school phase to the next. It’s planned to be a fun, supportive and age-appropriate space where girls can ask questions and learn practical skills that I wish I’d had growing up!

This isn’t just about physical safety. It’s about helping girls spot early warning signs in relationships, assert their boundaries, build confidence and feel better equipped to stay safe.

Because behaviour that first seems caring or affectionate can sometimes become controlling, pressurising or unhealthy — and young people deserve the tools to recognise that.

If this could be useful for your daughter, or a young person you support, please register your interest by completing this short form:

https://forms.gle/LZJL8jvqb4R7CYr99.

There’s no commitment at this stage — it just helps me understand whether there’s enough interest to plan the workshop and share more details.

Please feel free to share with anyone who might find this helpful.