My Physical Therapist showed me tai chi walking today. It's very slow and deliberate movements. I thought it was gonna be silly, but wow was I impressed. He is starting a class next week and I can't wait to participate. It works on balance, coordination, flexibility all at the same time - perfect for me since I fall a lot. I will make sure I am next to a wall for support.
Hi , I went to a few classes. My feet were't up to it at the time, as you need to brace yourself on your feet. The 'chi' part is based on 'believing their is a force' that contributes to the whole movement (I couldn't get into that part of it) so I stopped going. I loved the instructor (Victoria) and everything she had to say.,She holds a class out of doors at one of our local parks, which would be nice. It is gentle movement, probably what we all need, to move but not jerk around. It is sure worth a try, and the fee wasn't expensive here at our Parks & Rec. Department.
sarah
I am glad it is being held indoors, I really need the wall to hold onto. It works out to be /session. I am not interested in the whole theory behind it, I just like the gentle movementI'd love to be able to find a Tai Chi class in the Yuma area but so far I haven't found one. I practiced Tai Chi for many years and loved it. Once we retired and are traveling full time I can't seem to find any classes. Every once in awhile I'll drop in at the senior center in whatever town we're in and some of the centers have Tai Chi classes. It's does wonders for balance. The older I get and the more damage that occurs from Ra the worse my balance has gotten. Believe it or not it also builds and lengthens the muscles.
Since I practice Buddhism, the history of Tai Chi and the theory are all part of how I live my life. Practicing Tai Chi is just part of living my life, even though I only do a few poses it feels good.
I remember a few poses and do them on a daily basis but a class is the way to achieve results. Also, have an illustrated book on poses but it's not the same. It must be the energy that you get from a group.
I hope that you continue with the class and enjoy the movements. You will see results. They are subtle at first and build.
i do tai chi for arthritis. i love it. when i started 3 years ago i could only walk with a stick. now i have really good balance and no stick.it is so relaxing yet energy building at the same time. plus when i am at tai chi it is me time.Yes I have tried it and couldn't do it due to terribly painful knees but would like to try it again when and if I ever stop flaring!!!!! Janie. Down here Tai Chi sessions are run by local Arthritis Societies. Also whre I live, also run by Women's Centres. I have heard it's very good for "what ails us", and have enrolled for next term. Looking forward to it. Recommended by Rh, and GP.Although I do not practice Tai Chi but it is a form of systematic breathing exercise in conjunction with slow movements of the body. Besides health aspect of regualating the blood flow and movements of joints, it is also an art of self defence, once a person has mastered. This art was developed by a toaist, "Chang Sun Fong".
It is best to practice in the morning where places close to nature as the trees, plants release oxygen and environment provide fresh air. In China and elsewhere in Asia, there are group of people mostly elderly gather at parks early hours in the morning to do Tai Chi. It is a good exercise to release stress and help many cancer patients.
If you have the time and interest it is a good form of exercise like meditation.