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Self-Preservation: Mastering the Art of Survival

Writer's picture: Sifu Jeramiah GiehlSifu Jeramiah Giehl

In the realm of self-preservation, the path to empowerment is paved with cultivated instincts and attributes. Chief among these attributes is the elusive yet crucial "Killer Instinct." It's not just about aggression; it's about making the right tactical choices and executing them with surgical precision in the intense crucible of life-threatening encounters.


However, the key to unlocking the Killer Instinct lies in maintaining emotional control—a 'cool head' that can navigate the chaos. Let's delve into the tools at our disposal, the ranges of confrontations, and a pivotal lesson from a memorable incident.


Understanding the human anatomy's natural weapons provides the foundation for effective self-preservation. From feet to head, each part serves a purpose, whether it's kicking, striking, defending, or creating space. The arsenal includes feet for kicking, shins for attacking and defending, knees for potent strikes, and even teeth for biting—each a potential game-changer in the right context.


Analyzing the fundamental ranges of combat—kicking, punching, trapping/clinch, and ground-fighting—equips individuals with a strategic understanding of where and how to apply their tools. This knowledge forms the basis for developing effective self-defense techniques tailored to specific situations.


The transformative moment in Long Beach provides a crucial lesson on the 'critical component' of self-preservation—emotional control. In a bar brawl, Paul Vunak's ability to maintain composure amid chaos showcased the importance of forward pressure with hitting, emotional control, and clear decision-making. The realization that control of emotions is more valuable than a multitude of techniques reshaped the perspective on martial arts training.


The key to achieving the Killer Instinct is stress inoculation or immersion training. By exposing oneself to controlled stressors and learning to keep a cool head under combat conditions, individuals can unleash their Killer Instinct when needed. It's not about mindless aggression but about making calculated choices under pressure.


Self-preservation, then, is not just about physical prowess; it's a holistic journey toward empowerment. It involves mastering emotional control, understanding the tools at your disposal, and applying them strategically across various ranges of combat. The Killer Instinct is not a wild urge for violence but a disciplined and precise approach to safeguarding oneself and others.

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