As a Generation X participant, I can attest to the life-changing effects of Qigong and Stretch Therapy classes at the Shaolin Temple Quanfa Institute. I began these classes after my physiotherapist recommended that I try qigong to alleviate the persistent pain I was experiencing in my lower back. The pain had been accumulating for the past ten years in conjunction with stress factors that have led to burnout and problems with my liver (I don’t drink alcohol, yet liver enzymes have increased in my blood), and also, possibly, from a 3mm misalignment (anterolisthesis) between my L4 and L5 vertebrae recently revealed in an MRI. In my efforts to heal myself while on a sick leave from work, I have tried a combination of approaches, including physiotherapy, psychotherapy, tapping, craniosacral therapy, massage, naturopathic treatment, herbal remedies, acupuncture, exercise, immersing myself in nature, connecting with community, yoga, and improved diet. While each approach is of value, I felt I was at a standstill in terms of unblocking what seemed to be hopelessly constricted muscles. My physiotherapist gave some stretches that were mildly effective, but they did not seem to get to the root of the pain. I am so grateful that she made the recommendation to try qigong.

At long last, after 10 years of increasing pain, I have found a source of relief that feels like it is getting to the heart of my discomfort. After only attending three times a week for the past 5 months, my muscles are actually loosening up and I can finally rotate my hips again. Amazing.

In both Qi Gong Foundation and Intermediate classes, I am learning how to get in tune with my nerves, and I am learning how to control and sustain my energy. This is profoundly significant for recovering from burnout. While the Qi Gong classes are invaluable, my favourite class is Stretch Therapy where I am learning a variety of decompression stretches that go deep into my lower back and hip area. The relief is incredible. In addition to the stretches, Master Dao focuses on a different area of the body each week providing explanations of the anatomy of different joints, as well as explanations of acupressure points from Traditional Chinese medicine. I am looking forward to the upcoming focus on how to take care of our organs as I am concerned about my liver. I did not expect the sessions to be so comprehensive in addition to the physical aspect. It has been truly fulfilling in terms of a mind/body educational experience.

When my doctor told me that there was nothing I could do about the pain and misalignment in my lower back because it was part of the aging process, I was reluctant to believe it and hopeful that I would be able to find a solution. Now, after going to Stretch Therapy, I am learning exercises to increase bone density and strengthen joints. I have learned that it is possible to realign my vertebrae, and I have acquired self-massage techniques to eliminate pain. In the Qigong classes I have learned that pain is a symptom of pathogens in the body that accumulate where there is stagnation, and I am acquiring the techniques to increase the flow of energy throughout the body to keep things moving. Aging does not mean I have to helplessly endure pain. Now I have the tools to alleviate it. Now, Dao’s words that “pain is not normal” echo in my mind as I utilize the stretches that I have learned to bring relief.

Master Dao’s commitment to his own ongoing learning is reflected in his ever-evolving curriculum. He is a cool guy who engages his classes in a laid back manner while being super focused and clear, with a highly informative instructional approach that is characterized by kindness and humour. He has created a welcoming and friendly environment for all ages to learn at their own pace. He also provides the option of online instruction for every Qi Gong and Stretch Therapy class, which has made it easy to attend when weather is unfavourable or if my schedule gets tight. While I prefer in-person classes, I appreciated the online sessions that I attended as I was able to clearly compare and correct my posture according to the instructor’s, visible on split-screen mode on my computer screen.

What a gift to have come across this place. Thank you Master Dao! You rock!