Although im now fit enough to return to work im not fit enough for Karate...to say im a bit annoyed is an understatement. The 2 hip revisions i had in 3 days means I cant kick, and I won't be kicking for a while. 12 to 18 months is what im told whilst everything knits back together.
Of course it isn't to say i cant still be active in junbi undo or keep working with Makiwara, I can. But kicking and stances are a real issue.
I can fully appreciate now what people have told me about deep tissue infections, they're not nice to put it politely. When karate has been a part of your life for so long its a bitter pill to swallow not being able to train properly or to the fullest.
The whole journey this time around has been one of anxiety and at times depression. The system has been draining. Lack of information, the unknown, and then there's the mental and physical fight of rehabilitation.
In the past, when faced with the 'Black Dog' once before, turning to training was a form of therapy. Helping with mental stability it was possible to claw a path out of the darkness and into the light. Taking negative thoughts and putting things into perspective. This time however, i physically cant do that, but thankfully the mental training that Karate ( or any martial art affords) is a big help. Rehab is long and slow. Being back at work a blessing, albeit with a couple of restrictions in the short term.
For any of you reading this, who have faced the 'black dog' just remember, though your boots might be heavy, D. F. Q. (Don't Fucking Quit). It does get better... you are enough and it will pass.....
Jony.
