🌱 My Recovery Journey After Herniated Disc Surgery: Walking & Tai Chi as Daily Healing

About five months ago, I had surgery for a herniated disc. Before the operation, my main symptoms weren’t pain but numbness and weakness, which made everyday life feel uncertain. I didn’t realize how challenging recovery would be—not just physically, but mentally too.

But little by little, I’ve been finding my way back to health. Two things have become my steady companions: walking and Tai Chi.

Walking After Surgery

At first, even short walks felt like a challenge. I had to rebuild strength step by step. What helped me most was:

• Starting with just a few minutes at a time

• Focusing on posture and slow, steady steps

• Increasing distance only when my body felt ready

Now, walking has become my daily ritual. It helps loosen stiffness, strengthens my legs and back, and clears my mind.

Discovering Tai Chi for Recovery

Tai Chi came into my life as a gentle but powerful form of exercise. After surgery, I couldn’t jump back into intense workouts—but Tai Chi gave me a safe way to move.

The slow, controlled movements helped me:

• Improve balance and reduce fear of falling

• Stretch and strengthen my body without overdoing it

• Calm my mind, which eased stress and tension in my back

It became more than exercise—it felt like meditation in motion.

What Recovery Has Taught Me

• Healing is not quick, but progress adds up.

• Movement is medicine—as long as it’s gentle and consistent.

• Mind and body heal together. Walking strengthens the body, Tai Chi strengthens the spirit.

Final Thoughts

Recovery after surgery is not easy, but it’s possible to rebuild a healthy routine step by step. If you’re going through something similar, I encourage you to try adding gentle walks or mindful practices like Tai Chi into your day.

👉 Have you experienced surgery recovery or tried Tai Chi? Share your story—I’d love to connect with others on this path.