expression, godan verb (-ru)
defend oneself; protect oneself
Used for physical self-defense, protecting one's body from harm, or safeguarding one's position or interests.
彼は襲われたとき、とっさに身を守った。
When he was attacked, he instantly defended himself.
護身術を習って、自分の身
I want to learn self-defense techniques so I can protect myself.