The topic is about returning to martial arts while living with an ostomy. The person is concerned about the safety of engaging in martial arts, particularly the risk of receiving kicks or punches to the abdomen, and whether this might affect their enjoyment of the sport.

Here are some helpful pieces of advice and insights:

1. Many people with ostomies continue to practice martial arts, including striking and grappling, without issues by using a rigid stoma guard. Interestingly, a punch to the guard often hurts the attacker more than the person wearing it.

2. Consider these options for abdominal protection:
- Commercial sports cups or guards designed specifically for ostomies, such as Ostomy Armor.
- The Combat Sports Dome Air Tech Belly Pad, which can be used with an OstoShield RES50 Stoma Protector for added protection.
- A homemade pad using high-density foam rubber over the appliance, secured with a light support belt and a rubber sports belt under the gi.

3. Martial arts like Tai Chi and Aikido, which focus on redirecting an opponent’s force rather than direct confrontation, may reduce the risk of direct blows to the abdomen while still offering effective self-defense training.

4. If chemotherapy or general de-conditioning has affected your strength, consider cane or stick-based self-defense systems as a confidence-building alternative.

5. Core-strengthening exercises are still possible. The Swiss-ball pike/roll-out exercise is recommended as it engages the rectus abdominis and obliques while minimizing stress on the lower back and hip flexors. This can help rebuild abdominal stability and reduce the risk of hernia.

6. Remember, having an ostomy doesn't have to stop you from enjoying activities you love. Train smart, empty your pouch before class, protect your stoma, and most importantly, have fun.