Soteria Self Defence

This story highlights several points we discuss in the Soteriaia project. Learning and growing processess for all involved in communication and boundaries and changing generational habits.

Not all self defence skills need to involve kicks and screaming. It begins with recognising our own feelings, or body language of those around us, of discomfort and putting those feelings first.
Learning how to express what actions and behaviours we require and expect from others can feel very uncomfortable in Itself but it’s a better discomfort than the alternative.

As Mum in this story describes any verbal or physical sign (such as a hand raised in a STOP motion or simply walking away) would suffice and allow the child to remove herself from the situation but If possible a clear expression from an adult to explain that the words/action/tone/body language used was not appropriate or welcomed.

I would hope that this situation was not sinister and the man could recognise where he went wrong and learn from it too.

A great discussion or game to set up with our young ones is ‘How to say no’ in various situations. It can give them practice space and permission to walk away or disagree with actions from people/adults/other kids. In general we are taught this can be rude but let’s give ourselves and others permission to prioritise our own feelings.

A moment that changed me: my 11-year-old daughter received an unwanted compliment – and I taught her how to respond At a party, a man looked my child up and down in admiration, before praising her looks. I saw her visibly shrink. So I taught her the value of bad manners

Recently I watched the documentary on the murder of Gabby Petito. She was killed by her boyfriend. Her family have made this documentary to not only share Gabby’s story but also the warnings of controlling, jealous partners. They hope that others can find knowledge, strength and courage to find better and healthier lives and relationships through Gabby’s experience.

Check out The Gabby Petito Foundation and also the documentary on Netflix.

Watch American Murder: Gabby Petito | Netflix Official Site What happened in the final days of Gabby Petito's life? In this gripping true-crime series, her loved ones reveal the untold story of her tragic murder.

Another visit to Whangarei to deliver workshops, sponsored by Multicultural Whangarei.
Thank you to all of the women that joined in, shared your stories, listened to those of others and made the workshops so enjoyable. The cheers of support for each and every woman stepping forward with their loudest voice and fiercest fight was absolutely wonderful to be a part of.

Thanks to Multicultural Whangarei for your support and the special mention in the April newsletter.

April Update An amazing Pasifika Fusion 2024 in celebration of Northland's Pasifika community and culture! Well done Fale Pasifika Te Taitokerau for another successful event.

FREE WORKSHOP
Soteria Self Defence for Women: Building knowledge, skills and confidence to empower choice
Facilitator: Sharna
2 Sessions available and spaces are limited:
Thursday, 14 March or Saturday, 16 March (9:30am - 2:30pm)
*Wear something comfortable and easy to move in.
Click here to register:
https://forms.office.com/r/wSADsPSQHz