המרכז הירושלמי לתרבות סינית

Empowerment Self Defense (ESD) is a holistic, research-informed approach to violence prevention that integrates psychological, emotional, verbal, and physical strategies. At its core, ESD expands participants' choices by providing practical tools that enable them to assess situations, adapt their responses, and make decisions that best fit their circumstances. Physical techniques are presented as one option within a broader spectrum of responses, emphasizing choice, proportionality, and personal agency.
Classes are taught in a trauma-informed, participant-centered, and experiential way, providing a safe space to practice skills, reflect, and learn from peers.  Participants leave with practical tools and a broader range of choices to enhance their personal safety, well-being, resilience, and effectiveness in defending themselves and others.

 

Anat Errel, Co-founder and mentoring coordinator of ESD Europe.

Has over 43 years of experience practising and teaching Chinese martial arts and 16 years of experience in teaching ESD. Specialises in trauma-informed facilitation for marginalised communities, including survivors of domestic and sexual violence, people in drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs, sex workers, asylum seekers, and Arab, Bedouin and Druze communities. Developed specialised ESD programmes for transgender and autistic participants. Trains, mentors and certifies Empowerment Self-Defence instructors across Europe and Israel. Developed teaching guidelines for delivering ESD to diverse populations, including transgender people, older adults, survivors of domestic violence, and other marginalised groups. 

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