Self-Defense Beyond Fighting with Elicia Ybarra

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In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Elicia Ybarra about the intricate relationship between martial arts, self-defense, trauma, and personal healing. Elicia, based outside Los Angeles, California, opens up about her journey from martial arts prodigy to survivor of emotional and physical manipulation and abuse.

Elicia is a lifelong martial artist, dedicated women's self-defense instructor, and passionate advocate for empowering women to live confidently and fearlessly. With over three decades of martial arts experience, including a 4th dan black belt in Taekwondo and a 1st dan black belt in Hapkido, Elicia has transformed her personal journey of resilience into a mission to uplift others. She is the founder of Pretty Hands, Hard Punches.

Main Topics Covered:

How childhood chaos and trauma led Elicia to find structure and identity through martial arts.The role of martial arts in fostering confidence—but also the hidden dangers of imbalance in power and authority within insular communities.The process of grooming, manipulation, and the often-missed warning signs, especially for young women in high-trust environments.Redefining self-defense: why emotional intelligence, boundaries, and situational awareness are just as vital as physical fighting skills.Elicia’s experience escaping cycles of abuse—from martial arts instructors to romantic partners—and recognizing patterns to break free.The impact of postpartum depression and motherhood in bringing unresolved trauma to the surface, eventually prompting deep healing work.The creation of Pretty Hands Hard Punches, Elicia’s business focused on empowering women to recognize red flags, set boundaries, and advocate for themselves inside and outside martial arts.Practical advice for women on trusting intuition, refusing to sideline discomfort, and shifting the definition of self-defense to include emotional and psychological empowerment.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Amy introduces Elicia and her Southern California roots

[00:02:13] Elicia’s early love for martial arts and personal motivation

[00:05:07] Martial arts styles explained—taekwondo, karate, hapkido, and the importance of structure for kids

[00:10:03] Martial arts as sanctuary from a chaotic childhood and the soothing power of routine

[00:15:27] The illusion of safety—why physical prowess didn’t prevent Elicia from falling victim to grooming and manipulation

[00:18:17] How grooming began: trusting authority, ignoring discomfort, and escalating boundary crossings