Self-defense without fighting...this is pure GOLD!
This technique is from Frank Rudolph Young, who wrote 11 books on psychic mind control and natural health & bodybuilding during the 1960's - 1970's. (All his books are out of print....many are rare and carry price tags over $100 if you can find them at all!)
Young claims several Yoga masters dealt with ruffians intent on attacking them during their travels in this manner: As the thug got within lunging distance, they suddenly dropped back about 18 inches on one foot, bent their knees & faced the bully with their hands open in front of them...as if they were about to spring on their attacker & tear him to pieces! Remember to take deep breaths and expand your chest. Should the ruffian back off a little...edge forward a little to keep within lunging distance. This will give the impression you really want to demolish him! Another Yogi modified this technique by crouching still lower and made a feinting move with his front leg, as if to leap in with a powerful kick! Keep your focused & centered stance until the bully backs down & leaves the area. Bullies are basically cowards...your feral stance (and gaze) will throw them into a panic at what they think YOU MIGHT DO TO THEM! LOL They will withdraw out of concern for their own personal safety.
India has an ancient form of martial art, Kalarippayat, that has mostly disappeared,but still survives in the southwestern state of Kerala. Kalarippayat is a weapon-oriented art, proven in actual combat (much like the Filipino martial arts)...only those with superior fighting skills survived combat to teach their art to younger warriors! Kalari warriors DO use low fighting stances...so Frank R. Young was probably on the money with this technique. ENJOY...winning without fighting!

