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Greetings to all members of our self-defense community,

As we continue to navigate the challenges of living in a dynamic urban environment like Seattle, it's essential to equip ourselves with the knowledge and skills to stay safe. At our Tsun Jo® self-defense school, we're committed to empowering individuals with effective techniques to protect themselves and their loved ones. That is why every month in 2024, we have been, and will continue, to offer a free self-defense class.

Last month, I got a tragic call from one of our new trial students. He explained to me that he had not been in class because two weeks prior, his daughter, just 22 years old, was fatally shot near Puyallup, WA. She was just spending the evening out with some friends, but decided to stop to use a public restroom on their way to an event. Coming out of the restroom, they encountered a group of armed young men who ended up opening fire.

We stayed on the phone for about 30 minutes ending the sad call with him telling me that he feels like, now more then ever, it is essential for him to come in and keep with training. Our hearts go out to him and his family.

In this newsletter, we'll share some essential tips to help you navigate rising violent crime trends in our city.

1. Heightened Awareness and Situational Awareness

One of the most valuable skills in self-defense is awareness. Stay alert and attentive to your surroundings at all times, especially in areas with higher crime rates. Be especially attentive at or near public restrooms, parking lots and underground parking garages as these three tend to be high crimes areas. Avoid distractions such as excessive use of mobile devices. This includes while sitting in your car, when walking alone, or other similar circumstances as it can make you an easy target for potential threats.

2. Mastering Tsun Jo®: Your Essential Defense Toolkit

At our school, we specialize in Tsun Jo®, a dynamic self-defense style that integrates various techniques to empower individuals in real-life situations. Situational awareness, de-escalation, clear-decision making under stress are three essential tools we emphasize. When de-escalation fails, or when it is not an option we quickly shift to maximizing our physical responses. Whether it's overwhelming striking,high-pressure sticking and trapping or grappling, Tsun Jo® equips you with the tools to defend yourself effectively. Practice regularly and hone your skills to ensure you're prepared for any encounter.

3. Understanding Weapon Defense

In today's world, it's crucial to have knowledge of how to defend against common street weapons. Our curriculum includes training in gun disarms, as well as defenses against other prevalent weapons. By learning these techniques, you increase your chances of escaping dangerous situations unharmed.

4. Community and Leadership Development

For our teenage members, our self-defense program goes beyond physical techniques. We emphasize leadership development and camaraderie, fostering a supportive community where teens can build confidence and resilience. Encourage your teen to participate actively and engage with their peers in a positive environment.

5. Stay Informed and Prepared

As we witness a rise in violent crime in Seattle, staying informed about local safety concerns is crucial. Keep up-to-date with news reports, crime statistics, and community alerts. Additionally, consider enrolling in our self-defense workshops to further enhance your skills and preparedness.

Remember, self-defense is not just about physical techniques—it's about mindset, awareness, and preparation. By practicing Tsun Jo® and staying vigilant, you're taking proactive steps to protect yourself and others in our community.

Stay safe, stay empowered, and together, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way.

All the best in training,

Matt Soule, Director of Tsun Jo®