Open Hand

Aita-te [開いた手] 

Often we karate-ka see the closed fist as our go to weapon in self-defense and that is ok when used at appropriate times during violent encounters. But, is it truly the most efficient method of dealing with dangerous and nefarious evil-doers?

Personally, others of a violence profession have told me that observing a fight they don’t begin to be concerned until they observe one or both combatants open their hands and begin striking with said open hand. Interesting 🤔 

There are many many variables in applying the fist that can bleed off force, power and intended effects one must understand and then there is, “Kanchi [感知] or perception effecting responders and the legal profession.”

Read: https://isshindo.blogspot.com/2014/12/open-hands.html?m=1

It boils down to expressing the yin/yang principle within karate methodologies in self-defense. This philosophical principle is one of several concepts that are meant to guide you to survival of conflict and violence.