TAI CHI MIGHT BE THE PERFECT SENIOR EXERCISE
While traveling around China four years ago, we often came upon groups of people in public parks practicing tai chi. This was usually early in the morning and was mostly older adults who all looked like they were thoroughly enjoying themselves. A couple of times I was beckoned to join in but I’ve never tried this form of exercise and, honestly, it looked difficult with all the different moves these folks were flowing through. I likened it to learning a new many-movements slow-motion dance.
I’ve meant to take tai chi classes since I returned from my China trip but still haven’t fit it into my schedule. Yet I keep reading how this might be a perfect activity for fighting stress plus increasing flexibility and balance—and even maintaining strength. All great for us seniors. Research also suggests that tai chi may reduce pain from knee osteoarthritis and help folks cope with fibromyalgia or back pain.
So, let me pass this small bit of info I’ve found on to you:
Learning Tai Chi
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese mind-body practice that began as a martial art. Because it is low impact and puts minimal stress on muscles and joints, it’s safe for seniors of all fitness levels.
As you move, you breathe deeply and focus your attention on your body. Each posture flows into the next without pause ensuring you are in constant motion. Tai chi differs from other types of exercises in that your muscles are relaxed rather than tensed and your joints are not fully extended. It’s been described as “meditation in motion.”
You can buy videos that teach tai chi, but I think guidance from a tai chi instructor would be the best way to go to develop all the specific positions and breathing techniques of the practice. But there’s no standard training or certification or licensing for instructors. You’ll need to rely on recommendations from health professionals or friends. You might check to see if your local YMCA offers a beginners class. (Mine does here in Ventura.)
I’m now going to work tai chi classes into my life. Do you think you might give it a try?