Hello, I'm Nigel Palao.
A traditional Chen family member and Wellness Tai Chi teacher.
At age 39, I faced a life-changing challenge and found my way back to health and wellness through Tai Chi. I'm passionate about helping others reclaim their health and well-being with this ancient practice, and I'd be honoured to share my story with you.
My Story
"From Tragedy to Triumph: My Journey to Physical and Emotional Healing"
Embracing the Fast Lane, Until Life Slowed Me Down" Chasing success on the fast track, I thought I was living life to the fullest. Little did I know that a morning mountain bike ride through nature would change everything. A low-speed fall resulted in a life-altering diagnosis of seven vertebral fractures, including a shattered T3 vertebra. It was a wake-up call that forced me to reevaluate my definition of a fulfilling life.
The journey was not easy, but with perseverance and determination, I refused to let my circumstances define me. I harnessed the strength within and pushed myself beyond my limits. Despite the initial prognosis, I proved the experts wrong and took my first steps towards a new chapter in my life. My story is a testament to the power of the human spirit and a reminder to never give up in the face of adversity. I prove that anything is possible when you believe in yourself and never give up on your dreams.
My initial hospital experience was a gruelling physical and emotional journey. Every motion, every breath was a test of resilience. Confined by a neck brace, unable to move freely, I feared I might never regain my previous quality of life. But I refused to let this fear consume me. Instead, I focused on harnessing the power of my mind and harnessing the power of positive thinking, believing that my thoughts could help me heal and overcome any challenge that came my way.
Faced with a life-changing dilemma, I chose to empower myself through surgery. Despite the concerns of a team of specialist surgeons, I underwent a complex procedure performed by a skilled 25-year-old neurosurgeon. As I awoke from the seven-hour operation, I was met with intense pain, but with the unwavering support of my partner, we conquered it through meditation and breathing techniques. From a peak of 10/10 pain, we brought it down to a manageable 3/10, allowing me to rest and heal. I am determined to overcome this obstacle and reignite my inner strength.
The recovery journey was no easy feat, but I found a way to cope and heal without relying on medication. I started to practice meditation and unlock the power of my inner energy, which was far more potent than I had ever imagined. This process of enlightenment was empowering, allowing me to find joy despite my challenges. As I could not move for a long time, I found solace in my inner journey and felt an inner strength like never before. This strength eventually brought me back to life, and I now use it as an essential part of my daily routine.
As time was my steadfast companion, I began a journey of exploration; now that I could regain a certain degree of mobility in my bed, I dedicated myself to reading and watching about internal forces and energy. This led me to the United Kingdom five months later, where I could study meditation with Dr Joe Dispenza's assistance. I was aware that the journey ahead of me would be arduous. The moment presented itself when I had to sit in the medical bed, and the feeling was excruciating. Sitting down was a challenge that took days, and standing up was another challenge that brought with it a sensation of immense gratitude as I now understood that I was starting to move. This is when Tai Chi and Tree Pose Meditation unknowingly stepped in; standing like a tree was instinctive, an ancient healing technique for over 2000 years. This became my new reality as I could not step forward; learning to sit, stand, step forward and back was also an ancient art used to heal called Liang Yi; as I said, all this was a natural process that I eventually comprehended through the profound teachings of tai chi.
As I set out for my first steps, I was filled with a sense of amazement. It was almost as if I had been transported to space; though I had never been there before, the feeling of Walking and balancing was exhilarating. I've included photos of my first moments below so you can share the experience's marvel.
I was discharged from the hospital on my birthday and returned home with a newfound inner strength. This strength was cultivated by regularly meditating, consuming a diet rich in vegetables and juices, and drinking plenty of water. Additionally, I kept a positive attitude despite any challenges that presented themselves. I am now looking ahead to a bright and hopeful future.
Qi Gong practitioner and Walking.
I was introduced to the ancient art of Tai Chi and Qi Gong by a Tai Chi practitioner who took me under her wing. She taught me the five elements of Qi Gong and helped me to heal through movement. With the help of a physiotherapist, I could soon take my first walk. I gradually built up my strength to maintain and be fully aware of my body and mind during this challenging time, walking further each day. Two months later, I walked several kilometres daily, fueled by meditation, Qigong and healthy eating. Although my progress was slow initially, and I experienced intense pain when attempting physical activity, I refused to give up as the path was full of breakthroughs. I was overcome with emotions, realising the long road ahead.
A friend's visit sparked my interest in furthering my recovery through Tai Chi. After dedication and hard work, I eventually met my current Master's Teacher, Jorge Riscardoni, a disciple of the Chen Family Chenshaowu. Under his guidance, I refined my Tai Chi techniques with the aid of Chan Si Gong. With this practice, I have been released from neck and body braces and have spent countless hours, days, and months dedicated to my wellness through Tai Chi.
I embarked on an incredible journey to Henan province in China, where I had the privilege of meeting the originators of the Chen family, Master Chen Ziqiang. My teacher, Master Jorge Riscardoni, and I made the pilgrimage to Chenjiagou, the birthplace of Tai Chi. This experience was both physical and spiritual, as I was able to experience firsthand the healing power of Tai Chi. The slow, fluid movements, focus on deep breathing, and mental clarity helped me to heal my body, mind, and soul. I was so inspired by this experience that I now dedicate my life to teaching Wellness Tai Chi and helping others experience the same healing and transformation I did.
The road to recovery was difficult, and the journey through the hospital was filled with struggles and hardships. But I was determined to prevail, drawing on my inner strength, the compassionate support of my loved ones, and the healing power of Tai Chi and Qi Gong. My story is a testament to the power of the mind and the transformative effects of these ancient and revered practices. I am deeply thankful for every moment and opportunity to share my story and passion for Tai Chi and Qi Gong with others.
Thank you so much to all the volunteers and workers at the ambulance service, doctors, specialists, and hospital departments for their hard work and dedication. Special thanks to my physiotherapist, Javier Romero, Qi Gong practitioner, Isabel Rosa, and my current Master's Teacher, Jorge Riscardoni and Master Chen Ziqiang, for their support and guidance. Your help has been invaluable in my recovery.
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Chen Ziqiang
Chen Ziqiang is a grandmaster of Chen-style Taijiquan, a traditional Chinese martial art. He is the eldest son of Chen Xiaoxing and the eldest grandchild of Chen Fake, the founder of the Chenjiagou Taijiquan family. He has been teaching the art since 1997 and is considered one of the most influential figures in the modern Chen-style Taijiquan world
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Jorge Riscardoni
Jorge Riscardoni, known as Chen Shao Wu, is the 21st Generation of the Taijiquan Chen family. He is a disciple of International Master Chen Ziqiang, and a renowned practitioner of the Chen-style Taijiquan. He is highly respected for his expertise and knowledge of the art form, and has taught classes and seminars all over Spain. He also has an impressive competition record, having won numerous medals and awards.
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