Book Helps Individual Overcome 12 Years Of Severe Depression

A Chinese-American woman, Kathy Ma, who has been living in San Francisco for over 30 years, recently shared her 12-year-long battle with severe depression. During this period, Ma experienced suicidal thoughts and had to be restrained by her parents. Despite the constant relapses, each time she regained control, Ma felt immense regret. The torment persisted for 12 long years.

Ma’s story begins shortly after she immigrated to the United States at the age of 23. Despite her parents’ objections, she decided to return to China to marry her boyfriend of four years. However, her husband turned out to be unfaithful and asked for a divorce when Ma was five months pregnant.

Filled with heartbreak and resentment, Ma even considered aborting her baby. However, due to the dangerous consequences at that stage, she decided against it. As a devout Christian, she sought guidance and was advised against abortion by a pastor. Determined to live for her child, Ma resisted the urge to end her life.

Throughout this period, Ma experienced episodes of anger and self-harm. Sometimes, her parents had to call her brother for assistance in restraining her. Her actions not only negatively impacted her own life but also affected her son, who began exhibiting signs of withdrawal and even expressed a desire to die at the age of 5.

Amidst this turmoil, Ma’s mother was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, adding to her sense of despair. It was during this challenging time that Ma’s life took a turn when she was introduced to Falun Gong, a spiritual practice, by a former colleague.

Initially hesitant, Ma attended a lecture by the founder of Falun Gong, Li Hongzhi, and was intrigued by the principles shared. However, it wasn’t until she experienced a physical healing through the disappearance of a cyst under her armpit while taking a bath that she fully embraced the practice.

The teachings of Falun Gong brought tranquility and peace to Ma’s tumultuous life. She found solace and stability in practicing this spiritual discipline whenever she faced self-doubt, despondency, or emotional lows. Since her near-death experience, her battles with depression have not resurfaced for the past 24 years.

The positive impact of Falun Gong in Ma’s life extended beyond herself. Her son also began practicing the discipline and witnessed significant improvements in his own happiness and demeanor. Together, they participate in a band formed by Falun Gong practitioners, showcasing their musical talents and spreading joy at community events.

Yang, a medical expert, acknowledged the difficulties in explaining Ma’s recovery solely through a medical lens. While conventional medical treatments focus on physical and biochemical aspects, they often overlook consciousness and spirituality. Yang attributed Ma’s transformation to the awakening of her spirit and true soul through the teachings of Falun Gong.