Chapter 8: Different grasps for techniques...suddenly a technique in Aikido becomes a method of self-defence

When I first started to work using different attacks and grasps like cuts to the head, straight punch etc., I wasn't really sure how to apply any Aikido techniques to any form of self-defence, so these exercises are brilliant for encouraging you to sort of overcome the initial fear with all beginners... that you don't want to hurt someone, you just don't want to be the one hurt, yeah?
But the real handy thing about practising techniques from different grasps is that they also show how you can adapt your technique for different situations. Take technique five (Ushorio-ate) of Aikido (a personal favourite of mine-really easy technique to apply), this technique can be used for different attacks, say, for example, bottle attacks.
So there you have it... a versatile form of self defence, not entirely fool-proof, but as with any form of self defence, it just makes you feel as though you can do something, should you get grabbed in the street (as what frequently happens in my home town, particularly to women). But in case anyone is wondering, no, I don't feel invincible... just safe walking and traveling to and from A to Z.
However, I feel I have to say to any women reading this... that just because you may be able to defend yourself, doesn't mean that you are invincible or you will never be attacked at 1am coming home alone from a club or pub, play it safe and get a taxi home. I have spoken to many women and it always frightens me that because they live in a small town, they don't think anyone will try and jump them in the early hours of the morning when they are walking home alone. So basically, what I'm trying to say is, don't get paranoid...go out enjoy yourself but keep yourself and your mates safe.