Local organization offers women’s self-defense workshop

Mother’s day is just around the corner and you’re probably looking for that last minute gift idea. Well, if you’re out of ideas the One With Heart (OWH) organization might have the option you’re looking for.

OWH is putting on its annual Physical Fitness With Purpose self-defense workshop class on Saturday, May 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The organization has been offering this powerful and practical workshop since 1992 and said the numbers continue to grow every year.

Officials say the workshop participants begin by practicing verbal self-defense skills in a supportive environment.

“We started this in honor of Mother’s Day,” said office worker Antonia Tzantarmas. “It’s a mother-daughter self-defense workshop. I think it’s empowering because they learn physical and verbal warning signals.”

Sylvia Smart, a certified women’s self-defense instructor with over 14 years of martial arts experience, will share her knowledge at the event.

“I’ve been teaching an Indonesian martial art,” Smart said. “A lot of people are scared of martial arts. It’s really fun and we have a blast. Moms can see how strong their daughters are and daughters can see how strong their moms are.”

Officials say that moms, daughters, guardians, aunts, nieces, sisters and friends are all welcome to attend. However, only women are allowed to join.

Smart said that mothers pay $50 dollars and daughters or friends pay $10 dollars for the event. Only women and children 8 years and older are allowed to join.

For more information on registration contact OWH at (503) 231-1999.