Carole's story
“I have had cerebral palsy from birth so movements of my legs have always been a challenge, but I am the kind of person who doesn’t let much get in my way! I was working out in the gym to increase my upper body strength when it was suggested too me by the Healthy Living co-ordinator that I attend a Chi Kung class at Lymington Health and Leisure Centre, this was three and a half years ago. I have also had another challenge to deal with, fibromyalgia. When the fibromyaligia hit in 1996 I was on heavy duty painkillers and had to be pushed around in a wheelchair.
As soon as I went to the first Chi Kung class I realised I had really found something that I could adjust to my abilities, it is a different approach to movement exercise and I can make it personal to me. One exercise I could not do at all back then has now become a daily leg function maintenance movement. Early on I remember doing a Chi Kung form called ‘Moon windows’ I felt the Chi energy for the first time wow! How supporting this felt and deeply reassuring for me. I noticed everything shift like I was being realigned. Because so many of the movements are upper body based I feel as if I can manage them and have learned how to build up my lower body and leg strength in a completely different way.
On days when the fibromyalgia flares up I feel as if I am dragging myself to class only to find that afterwards I bounce out ready for action! I do still have to take painkillers sometimes, but only ibuprofen and paracetamol.
My balance has always been tricky in that I used to feel as if I was being pulled forward all the time. I did not feel safe walking and had to steady myself with the pushchair or use walls for support. Learning how to stand in WuChi has helped me with a deeper connection to the Earth and to my centre of balance at the Dan Tien. This helps with everything I need to do, as if I feel supported, safe and connected then anything feels possible. Chi Kung walking has helped my awareness enormously and I no longer have a sensation of falling forward. I recently took a bus into Southampton with my little boy and managed to walk around for a while, before getting the bus back again. I would never have imagined this could be possible several years back, when I was in a wheelchair. Also my mobility scooter has let me down several times and I have found myself able to push it back home! I am seriously considering learning to drive now…
I attend three Chi Kung classes a week and practise at home when I can. I have also become a Reiki Master and Colour therapist, all of which help me with my new confidence and zest for life. I am planning to take Chi Kung out to people who have similar difficulties with moving around as I would like to show them what they can do and not what they can’t.
I am available for talks and demonstrations, if you or anyone you know would be interested, please contact me through this website. Thank you.”
