Severe kyphosis.. just beginning Qi Gong

[Anonymous]

Hi all,

Three years ago when I was 14 I started developing a curve in my spine. Long story short its absolutely ruined my life in every aspect that you can imagine. I could have played college basketball. I lost my ability to enjoy myself around people. I have tons and tons of frustration and anger and sadness. I can’t even express how agonizing this is. I’m missing out on high school.

I’m dealing with many spiritual aspects of this situation through the Just One Look meditation method by John Sherman, and hopefully can feel comfortable at least sitting in a chair through Qi Gong practice.

A few weeks ago I ordered Lee Holden’s Qi Gong for Self Healing. It’s been moderately helpful for stress but hasn’t done much (I know I shouldn’t expect that yet). I’ve actually found ways with my mind to slowly straighten out the spine and I’ve seen some improvements from that, but the curve is still bad and prevents me from having a life.

My question is, should I have concerns about whether this certain DVD is too advanced, after hearing that harm can be done by doing qi gong incorrectly? Should I switch perhaps to a beginner DVD, or one aimed at back problems?

Thanks,
David

[Anonymous]

I am not an advance practitioner, yet I would through in my two cents.

First off, it is wonderful to see that you have approached solving the physical challenge actively. Even more so that you have detected improvement and are mindful as to how you approach the task at hand.

As to causing harm: you will commonly hear from any good teacher to abide by the 70% rule or the rule of thirds. I.e. if 100% is the limit of what you are capable of, back off to 70%. If a whole is your limit then go to 2 thirds, and in the case of a physical limitation, whether short term (due to a cold or a twited ankle) or some long term condition, 1 third. I.e. do not push yourself and if your body pipes up with pain in any form, back off and do less. Less is more.

As you are working to overcome a specific challenge I would suggest to at the very least make contact with an adept teacher/master who can tell you what to look out for or which practices might really support your journey. If possible take some lessons, so s/he can correct what you are doing so you can have the best approach to your pracitce.

[Anonymous]

Hi David,

I’m sorry that you’re experiancing so much pain at such a young age. I can relate. I’ve had severe back pain for most of my life. And it has affected every part of my life.

Working with the spine is considered a very advanced subject in Chi Gung. It is definately possible and I would even say easy to cause yourself problems when working with the spine.

I think the most important thing that you can do is find a teacher that you can meet in person. There have been many times that I thought I was doing one thing with my spine. But my teacher showed me that I wasn’t doing what I thought I was. I think this is the value of having a live teacher. You may think your doing something correctly. But you want someone who can give you a reality check.

I’ve found it invaluable whenever a teacher has showed me that I was making a mistake. I sometimes wonder if I would have ever figured it out on my own!

Hope this helps,
Janak

[Anonymous]

A good medical Qi Gong specialist may work wonders on your back.
A top teacher will definitely have something to offer.

You should always post where you live so people can tell you what resources are in your area.

The Chinese community may be able to help you find who you seek.
Possibly a Buddhist Temple.

[Author]

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