This gentle form of exercise can help maintain strength, flexibility, and balance, and could be the perfect activity for the rest of your life. More and more people are hearing of the clinically proven benefits of Taichi. Here is some great information for you to take advantage of before coming to the classes offered here in Celebration. Tai chi is often described as "meditation in motion," but it might well be called "medication in motion." There is growing evidence that this mind-body practice, which originated in China as a martial art, has value in treating or preventing many health problems. And you can get started even if you aren't in top shape or the best of health. In this low-impact, slow-motion exercise, you go without pausing through a series of motions named for animal actions — for example, "white crane spreads its wings" — or martial arts moves, such as "box both ears." As you move, you breathe deeply and naturally, focusing your attention — as in some kinds of meditation — on your bodily sensations. Tai chi differs from other types of exercise in several respects. The movements are usually circular and never forced, the muscles are relaxed rather than tensed, the joints are not fully extended or bent, and connective tissues are not stretched. Tai chi can be easily adapted for anyone, from the most fit to people confined to wheelchairs or recovering from surgery. A meta-analysis of 40 studies on Tai Chi published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found a reduction of stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms and improved self-esteem with regular Tai Chi practice. (Not to cause alarm, but stress is actually killing American women.) Taichi is adaptive as well for individuals impeded by life’s circumstances. I.E. Breast cancer recovery, paralysis, COPD, arthritis, MS, cardiac recovery, vestibular imbalances, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, ADD. Resource sited: WebMD; psychcentral.com; nationalmssociety.org; www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; healthland.time.com; Harvard Women's Health Watch; www.shape.com In my classes I have seen children’s attention spans become more focused, active agers become stronger and even my doctor commented on my resting heart rate thinking I do “a lot” of cardio. Come and let us explore Taichi together. |
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