Nine months ago, I vacationed in another country. One night, I went for a walk on the beach with several friends after dark, within sight of and in the light from the resort. We thought our awareness and our numbers would be enough to keep us protected. This was not the case. We were attacked by two men. One came right at me.
In the moment, I felt anger—not fear—at being attacked and fought back fiercely. I wasn’t surprised I fought back; during IMPACT training I found my “fighting spirit” easy to access. I had clarity and precision, and acted in a logical, effective manner.
I had the presence of mind to realize that the silence around me meant that I was not using my voice! I reminded myself to breathe and yell – and I found my reserve of strength. My assailant—shocked at my loud, powerful resistance—backed off. My frozen friends responded to my instructions and we ran to safety.
This experience, far from making me fearful of travel, has instead left me with a sense of empowerment. I trust myself more than ever before. I have realistic confidence in my own ability to keep myself safe. Because of skills I learned and practiced at IMPACT, I navigate and engage with the world in a way that is healthier, safer and, ultimately, more joyful!
Greta, IMPACT Personal Safety, New Mexico
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