John from Brooklyn, NY asks:
“I was speaking to my friend Jennifer who said that ever since she’s had her second child last year, she’s has been having trouble keeping her balance and getting dizzy during the push hands. I know it’s an unusual problem, but I figured it was worth running by you in case you’ve ever heard of that, or what may be causing it. “
Dear John,
The answer to the first part of this question, the balance problem can be caused by a couple of things things.
First, it could be because she got used to her balance when she was pregnant and her balance and center of gravity has changed since the birth.
Also, it could also be that while she was pregnant, her spine got out of adjustment, and she got used to doing T’ai Chi with it out, or the reverse, that her spine was out and now is back in place. In either case, chiropractic treatment may be of help.
However, while we are on the topic, let me remind you that as a balance exercise, you may stand behind a chair and lift a foot, with your hands on the chair back for balance. Then let go of the chair and stand, and see what it feels like. If you are in danger of losing your balance, grab the chair, but if not, see how long you can stand on one foot. Then swing the foot in the air and see how it changes your balance. Then do the same for the other foot.
I do not have a clue about being dizzy in push hands. I would take any dizzyness seriously, and visit a doctor. It might be nothing, but it could be something serious. A doctor would be a good person to help make that decision.
We will be on vacation and back in August for more questions and answers. Enjoy the summer and think cool!
In Tai Chi,
Bill
