On May 19, Sije Alex Boreva and Sihing Konstantin Krastev introduced us to the principles of the martial art Wing Chun. Wing Chun was created by a nun in the Shaolin Monastery in order to protect herself from a physically stronger striker.
First of all, this art teaches us how to avoid a physical attack, as one of its principles is “The Avoiding Battle is a Battle Won”. If we cannot escape the attack, Wing Chun offers us a number of offensive tactics. At first, our voice is our first weapon. With a high enough voice and the right message, we can attract the attention of others or undermine the attacker. If the striker is stubborn, we resort to strength – the instructors have demonstrated different types of strikes with hands, feet, and various ways to get out of one’s grip. In other words, we cause pain to the aggressor in order to save ourselves!
They demonstrated multiple ways in which we may be assaulted with different kinds of weapons, and how to approach the attacker mentally. The workshop participants practiced the techniques both with the instructors and with each other. Thanks to Sije Alex Boreva and Sihing Konstantin Krastev for their professionalism and sense of humor, and to all participants for their enthusiasm! Special thanks to the queer volunteers for the invaluable contribution to the event!
Photos: Monika Varadinova
Keep an eye out for the other events of the Sofia Pride program, as well as Sofia Pride Sports and Instagram.
Author: Raya Raeva