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Tai Chi

Tai Chi is well established as a gentle form of exercise, suitable for all ages but especially so for the not-so-young. It is good for those of us with arthritic limbs and helps with mobility.

All the exercises are in the upright position (no bending) and there is little stress on joints.


Our group is led by Ken Meade, an experienced and highly qualified teacher who recently achieved his Master qualification in a national competition. We feel very privileged to have him as our teacher


What it is.

Tai chi began in ancient China and started as a martial art and for the purpose of self-defence. It later became recognized for its health benefits.

Tai chi is believed to improve:

•    physical condition
•    muscle strength
•    coordination
•    flexibility
•    balance
•    pain level and stiffness
•    sleep
•    general well-being

As the legend goes, Tai Chi's origin is credited to Chang San-Feng, a Taoist monk. The monk developed a series of 13 exercises that mimic the movements of animals. Meditation and the concept of internal force were emphasized by the monk.

Tai chi adopted the concepts yin and yang (opposing forces within your body) and qi (vital energy or life force). Tai chi aims to support a balance of yin and yang, ultimately aiding the flow of qi.

There are various movements in tai chi -- and each flows into the next. Posture, movement, concentration, and breathing are essential elements of Tai Chi.

According to a study in Arthritis Care & Research, Tai Chi can be modestly beneficial for people with various forms of arthritis. The study analyzed the results from seven clinical trials . Using tai chi as the main treatment for participants with musculoskeletal pain, study results indicated that Tai Chi improved pain and disability.

We have a committed membership that meets weekly. There is a small charge to cover the cost of our qualified tutor/room hire.

Please contact me if you'd like to know more,

CliffLaycock

oBERAMMERGAU
Tai Chi exercises were enjoyable loosteners for members UNDER the English Channel when they were returning from a coach holiday to Oberammergau in July 2010.

Helpful links
Everyday Tai Chi has some videos showing experts performing Tai Chi exercises.

Science Daily reports the positive health benefits of Tai Chi for arthritis sufferers
Essex Tai Chi Academy inculdes good photos of typical classes
Talk Tai Chi has a good guide to the various forms of TaiChi.

Contact: Cliff Laycock
Phone: 481985
email: 
Clifford.Laycock@ntlworld.com
Meeting venue:
St John's Centre Mansfield
When: Every Monday 9.30 - 10.30 (September to July)

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