Each new year begins with National Personal Self-Defense Awareness Month, an important reminder of how vital self-defense is—particularly for women. I am deeply committed to making self-defense and martial arts education accessible, so individuals in our community can build long-lasting confidence, awareness, and personal safety skills. Confidence is developed through consistent practice and, when needed, real-world application. 

This past February, the Women’s Self-Defense event held at ATA Martial Arts, Murrysville, was well attended by women of all ages and experience levels. Participants were introduced to situational awareness strategies, targeted self-defense techniques, and reflex conditioning. While the women were motivated during their workout, it was at the post-event social at Applebee’s where meaningful community connections were made. Conversations centered on real-life application, shared experiences, and the importance of self-defense—discussions that continually encourage and inspire me. 

I would like to recognize the event partners who helped make this opportunity available to our community: Applebee’s Murrysville, who provided $10 coupons; ATA Martial Arts Murrysville, who offered a training promotion; Unity Printing; Stroll Murrysville; and my brand, Shandō—the way of the mountain—who provided hats.

 For more information on upcoming self-defense events and to learn more about Shandō, follow @sh_an_do on Instagram.