Tai Chi

Try Tai Chi – Motion as Medicine

The Chinese have long understood the immense health benefits of Tai Chi, and it’s popularity is steadily growing. Originating in ancient China, Tai Chi is a gentle exercise. The circular movements of Tai Chi are non-strenuous, soft and flowing. It is often described as “moving meditation” because it relieves stress and improves concentration. The slow turning motions loosen the joints and spine and relax points of tension in the body. Tai Chi trains the mind to direct the flow of internal energy Chi and breath Qi. The movements are preformed with silk-like energy that is continuous, flexible, soft and effortless. Slow, deep and gentle breathing regulates the forms tempo. Tai Chi can be an effective therapy to strengthen the digestive, circulatory, and skeletal systems.

Proven via scientific study to increase strength, flexibility, endurance and balance it also has many other advantages. Tai Chi in inexpensive and easy to learn, it exercises the entire body and is suitable for most anyone. “Recent studies have show that a Tai Chi program for persons with arthritis is safe and beneficial resulting in positive outcomes such as reduced pain, stiffness and fatigue and improved physical function, muscle strength, flexibility/mobility, and balance.” sites the Arthritis Foundation Tai Chi Program manual listing a plentitude of published studies in their curriculum.

Sun Style Tai Chi is characterized by agile steps it contains powerful Qigong especially effective for health & relaxation.

Tai Chi for Arthritis & Healthy Joints is taught on Tuesdays & Fridays at the JCC using Dr Lam’s program. Somatic movement information and additional healthful Qigong is included. As students become more knowledgeable, confident and stronger they may choose to go from Level 1 (Jan 2020 – Mar 2020) to Level 2 (April 2020 – June 2020). The Depth of TCA goes over each martial aspect and the six essential principles are highlighted.

Tai Chi for Arthritis presents a Tai Chi video introduction by Dr. Lam 

Sun Style 73 Forms is taught on Mondays & Thursdays at the JCC using Dr Lam’s program. Somatic movement information and additional healthful Qigong is included. Level 3 is designed and modified from the original form to give the serious student a natural progression and showcase of skill building movements. The form is full of fun challenges and more spiraling energy. Postures can be easily modified for all students’ ability.

The Objectives of  Tai Chi Sun style program

• To provide a safe and interesting program, which is easy to learn for people of almost any physical condition or age without prior knowledge of Tai Chi.

• To deliver maximum relief from the main problems experienced by people with mild to moderate arthritis–namely pain and stiffness.

• To benefit health and wellness in general.

• To improve relaxation.

• To allow personal learning to advance in a step wise progression determined by intention and motivation of the student.