Personal safety classes

These free personal safety classes have been developed by Dynamis Gym in partnership with workers and survivors from EWRASAC. We run them every few months. We offer free places to survivors who use our service. To reserve a place you can speak to a worker during a session or call our helpline on 0131 556 9437.

No woman is ever to blame for experiencing sexual violence
No-one ever knowingly puts themselves at risk; everyone does the best they can to survive aggression and violence, using the resources they have at the time. This class is aimed at increasing understanding of what happens to anyone, woman or man, physically and psychologically, when under attack. The focus of it is to look at building confidence and capability for the future.

Dynamis says: “A core concept is that the mind directs the body. Under conditions of high-stress, changes happen in the way the brain processes information and communicates with the body. These changes have a high impact on physical and mental performance and can hugely affect the person’s ability to respond to a situation.”

What can I expect at the class?

• A sometimes fun, sometimes serious, thought provoking and engaging format
• Useful verbal tactics and a way of communicating non-verbally
• Helpful models you can use to control your fears and make good decisions
• Simple, practical skills which you will learn easily
• Support workers will be available if you would like to talk to someone
• It will last for 4 hours, with a short break halfway through

One attendee and survivor said: “This has helped me come to terms with fear, self blame and feeling overwhelmed. I understand my reaction was normal, biological, psychological, and physical and I did the best I could. The clarity of what this has taught me has helped me in all aspects of my life.”

How will I know if this is right for me?
It may be advisable to chat to a support worker to find out more, and to discuss some of the issues that could come up in this type of class. It is not a process for looking at past experiences; instead it is an opportunity to broaden awareness of our own personal safety, help us to understand how we react to fear, and help build confidence and self-worth.

What should I bring to the class?
Comfortable, warm, loose-fitting clothing and footwear suitable for mobility. If you are not comfortable practicing some of the physical moves you will be able to observe. You will work at your own pace, and you are in control.

Website for Dynamis Gym: www.dynamis-gym.com