Common S.E.N.S.E. Self Defense

with Mark Akin

ENVISION Common Sense Self Defense Systems is an introductory level self defense course, created to allow people of all levels an opportunity to begin a mindset shift towards empowerment, autonomy and self-confidence. 

Our empowering seminars and group training workshops illuminate the indicators of predatory behavior, as well as the mental and physical attributes necessary to keep you and your loved ones safer. Situational awareness, escape, boundary setting, and boundary enforcement are the foundations of Common S.E.N.S.E. Self Defense Systems. 

What participants will learn:

• 3 rules of self defense 

• Descriptions of predatory behavior and how to recognize them 

• How to set a clear and unmistakable boundary 

• Easy to remember, simple to execute movements 

• That your brain is your best weapon!

Cofounder and Lead Instructor Mark Akin has studied combative arts for 30 years and honed real-life self defense skills working in executive protection, stalking protection, and nightclub/concert security. This experience shaped the foundation for the 3 fundamental truths of self defense within this course:

• “Cool moves” tend to fail under pressure.

• Violence is always best avoided unless absolutely necessary.

• A sharp and alert brain are our best weapons. 

Depending on the group size during a private workshop, Envision adds instructors to ensure all participants receive attention, answers to questions and opportunity to physically put into practice what they are learning.  Mark hand selects these qualified team instructors - each with a passion for self defense and the experience to engage individuals during the course.

Clients include….

St. Jude / University of Memphis / Baker Donelson Law Firm / Evolve Bank & Trust / Private Groups / And more…

Testimonies

“My firm took the Envision self-defense class as a group. Mark and his team were super knowledgeable and experienced. The class was well-organized and easy to follow. I walked away with a good sense of how to avoid an attack in the first place, and how to effectively protect myself with straightforward maneuvers that are easy to remember in the event an attack actually occurs. I highly recommend taking this class!” - Maggie, Lewis Thomason Law

“Mark and his team did an excellent job on their recent Common Sense Self-Defense Class. The educational overview they gave was easy to understand and not overwhelming. When it came time to actually practice the physical maneuvers, they gave thorough instructions and guidance. They were patient and answered all of our questions. Our employees left feeling empowered! Evolve is looking forward to having Mark and his team back to continue our journey in personal safety.” - Thomas, Evolve Bank & Trust

“I came across Mark's self defense class online and am so glad I did. A group of girl friends and I attended and were immediately made comfortable. In a more classroom-style setting, we sat and discussed why we were there and what we wanted to get out of the experience. Mark taught us the basics of self defense and how to approach any situation we may feel uncomfortable. The hands on part of training was fantastic as what we were learning was out to the test. He tailored the class to our concerns and made sure we were confident in what we were doing and the why behind the actions. Our experience was so great we immediately booked a second, more advanced class. I highly recommend this training to anyone wanting to learn about self defense.” - Shelby, Private Group

“I would like to thank our company for making the choice to provide staff with the opportunity to take the self-defense class yesterday.  Prior to being held up in the parking lot, I thought I was a very observant person with regard to my surroundings.  In actual fact, I became someone’s gazelle.  The person who accosted me did so for very specific reasons – I was just very fortunate that he did not make good tactical choices, even though he held a gun and had every advantage in the situation.  I feel as though I have gotten a “do-over” since taking the self-defense class.  That incident jogged me back into the need to be hyper aware of my environment.  As a former police officer it was drilled into us just how important it is to be observant of your surroundings at all times.  Communities all over the country are dealing with increased crime and factually police are rarely there when personal crimes are committed.   Criminals are taking advantage of the fact that we (women) are not paying attention to our personal safety because we are so busy doing other things.  Crime is successful because it is mostly about opportunity.  It is up to each of us to be as prepared as possible for what may come at us – at any time.

Yesterday’s class was excellent on a fundamental level.  We cannot necessarily know who the criminals are in any situation, but they know who we are as their target victims.  The class gave us basic techniques to incorporate into our lives and the incentive to maybe take it further and take classes to train ourselves better.  In most situations, we will likely only do what you have practiced – and if you have not practiced or don’t have a plan….

So, again, I want to thank you all for investing it our well being.  You responded to a need for the whole office, it means a lot.” - Marie, Baker Donelson Law