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Published December 6th, 2025
Stopping the Fight Before it Starts
Most people believe that self-defense begins when the first punch is thrown. In reality, the physical attack is the final stage of a much longer process.
The "Timeline of Violence" is the predictable sequence of behaviors that a predator uses to select, approach, and engage a victim. By learning to recognize these early warning signs, residents in Miller Place and Rocky Point can interrupt the cycle and escape safely without ever having to use physical force.
Stage 1: Target Selection
Criminals and predators do not choose victims at random. They look for "soft targets." These are individuals who appear distracted, unaware, or vulnerable. A person walking through a parking lot in Mount Sinai with their head buried in their phone is a prime target.
In Traditional Okinawan Karate, we counter this stage with Zanshin (lingering awareness). By projecting a calm and alert demeanor, you signal to a predator that you are aware of your surroundings. This alone is often enough to make them move on to an easier target.
Stage 2: The Approach and "The Interview"
Once a target is selected, the predator must close the distance. They rarely just run up and attack. Instead, they use a ruse to get close without triggering your alarm bells. This is often called "The Interview."
Common tactics include:
- Asking for the time or directions.
- Asking for money or a cigarette.
- Using a sympathetic story to lower your guard.
This is a test. They are checking to see if you are compliant and if they can get within striking range. At our dojo, we teach students to maintain a safe distance and to answer firmly but briefly while keeping moving.
Stage 3: Posturing and Escalation
If you fail the interview or refuse their request, the timeline often shifts to verbal aggression. The attacker may raise their voice, puff out their chest, or use insults to provoke an emotional reaction. This is the final warning sign.
At this stage, you must enter a "Life Protection" mindset.
- Create Distance: Back away to a safe zone.
- De-escalate: Do not let your ego engage. Apologize if necessary, but keep moving.
- Prepare: Mentally ready yourself for the physical defense if they cross the line.
Stage 4: The Physical Attack
This is the moment most people fear, but if you have recognized the timeline correctly, you have already had three chances to avoid it. If the threat becomes physical, you must act decisively.
Using the principles of Traditional Okinawan Karate passed down from Taika Seiyu Oyata, we teach students to end the threat immediately using effective tools like Tuite Jitsu (joint manipulation) and Kyusho Jitsu (pressure points) to facilitate an escape.
Train for the Whole Timeline
Hanshi Seiken Takamine, one of the last inheritors of this complete system, emphasizes that true self-defense is 90% awareness and 10% physical technique. We train our students to dominate the entire timeline, not just the fight.
Frequently Asked Questions about Self-Defense Awareness
How do I know if someone is following me? Trust your intuition. If a person matches your pace or turns when you turn, they likely have bad intentions. Cross the street, enter a public business like a store in the Sound Beach shopping centers, or call the police immediately.
What is the best way to stop a stranger from getting too close? Use your voice and your hands. Put your hands up in a "stop" gesture and firmly say "Stay back" or "I can't help you." This establishes a boundary without being overly aggressive.
Does karate teach you how to spot bad body language? Yes. Part of our training involves recognizing pre-attack indicators like clenching fists, target glancing (looking where they want to hit), and hiding hands.