Personal

TIPS FOR PERSONAL SAFETY:

Trust Your Instincts.

If you feel unsafe about entering into a certain place or situation, trust your instincts.  In 2008, the scientific journal Neuron ran an article called “Subliminal Instrumental Conditioning Demonstrated in the Human Brain”.  Although it’s written for neuroscientists, we managed to understand the basics:  A scientific study found evidence for the idea that intuition works!

Tell Someone You Trust Where You’re Going

Although you don’t want to broadcast your whereabouts to potential thieves or attackers, you do want someone you trust to be in the know.  Tell that person where you’re going and when you plan to return.

In addition, write the information on a piece of paper and leave it at home in a visible location.  Should you not return, the information will assist authorities in their investigation.  You can also leave emergency contact numbers in full view.

Walk Facing Traffic

Jogging or walking so that you face the direction of oncoming traffic allows you to be aware of who or what is coming towards you.  Move away from the curb to avoid curb crawlers.  If you must walk in the same direction as traffic and a vehicle pulls up beside you, turn and walk or run in the opposite direction.  You can change direction more quickly than a car, which will buy you time.

Be Ready to Run

When you walk, keep one hand free.  If you’re carrying books or packages, be prepared to drop them.  If someone demands your purse, throw it in one direction and run in the other.  Do not wear shoes that trap you by strongly limiting mobility.