Twice in the past two years my back "went out," meaning, it suddenly hurt so severely that I couldn't stand or walk without holding on to something. I would live on Aleve for weeks until it finally went away. I couldn't do yard work without being in pain if I bent over for more than five minutes. I also had a long history of pelvic floor issues. Over many years with 5 physical therapists and being told to tuck my pelvis and do 70 Kegels a day, it didn't help and I was considering surgery.
By chance, I heard Ester on NYU's Doctor Radio Orthopedic Show and I was drawn to the idea of no surgery or meds, just changing how I stand, walk, sit, and lie. She was so well spoken that I immediately ordered her book, CD and chair cushion and was "hooked.' Ester's logical and intelligent look into other cultures without back pain like we have in the US, in order to cure her own back pain, totally impressed me. I signed up for the 1 hour free class, and just finished my 18th Elements Class to further improve my understanding and abilities. Granted, I've been doing everything wrong for 78 years, and the mind and body don't change overnight! So I realize this is a process, but I'm very committed to this method. I'm signed up to take a 6 day, 1 hr./day, 1 on 1 class in two months, after I've had time to practice what I learned in Elements.
Since working on the Gokhale Method for the past two months, I know it's helping me in many ways. I haven't had any back pain. I can bend over (hip hinging) for over an hour doing yard work with no problem. I have a rather humped back, and that and my posture seem to be improving. I sit and lie more comfortably, and my muscles are getting stronger. Even the pelvic floor issues seem less.
I spent time recently with four peers I hadn't seen in years. I was shocked that one had had two serious back surgeries and still had pain, one walked with a cane (and not well), one couldn't sleep at night or be comfortable because of back pain, and one could barely get out of the chair. This strongly reinforced my desire to continue with this method. We spend money on things that come and go, on meds, pt, doctor bills, canes, etc. If this method keeps me pain free, mobile, able to take care of myself and my house, able to be in my walking club and play golf with friends, to travel and enjoy life, how can I put a price tag on that?
I am extremely grateful for Esther and this method she developed over the years. To me, she's a genius and a gift from Heaven.
Esther's Student