Photos (c) Robert Kalfus
Steve Sachs spars with Rabbi Mendy Hurwitz striking with a stick, learning and practicing self-defense
By Robert Kalfus
An awareness of situations and events here in America and events worldwide led synagogue members to want to start learning basic self-defense tactics. Synagogue member Steve Sachs, who has learned, practiced and taught self-defense for the past 26 years, volunteered to teach situational awareness and practical self-defense.
Mr. Sachs described how to avoid or prevent situations in which one might be trapped, and injured, recognizing and finding common items readily at hand to use for self-defense, and how “verbal ju-jitsu” could de-escalate a situation and avoid the possibility of danger. When walking along the street, be aware of reflections in store windows to see if you are being followed; if you have a tingly sense of danger, listen to your senses; use your wide peripheral vision without moving your eyes or head, and more.
Jews must love themselves, and all others, defend themselves with strength while doing mitzvoth. Classes will continue at the Chabad of Yonkers, giving participants additional knowledge, training, experience and practical self-defense skills.
Chabad of Yonkers offers a delicious and meaningful, community Passover Seder on Wednesday April 1, at 7 pm, Passover’s first night, with a three course dinner, four cups of wine or grape juice, traditional Seder food, and handmade shmurah matzah. No one will be turned way for lack of funds.
Contact Rabbi Mendy Hurwitz at (914) 963-8888 or JewishYonkers.com.
