In the News
Seniors recognize the health benefits of Tai Chi
Today's Seniors are better educated and more aware of the benefits of the healing arts. Many Seniors today are taking charge of their own health. They are eating right, researching natural remedies and exercising. One form of exercise which is quickly catching on within Seniors communities is Tai Chi. Tai Chi is a ancient form of movement existing over 2000 years. Originally created as a art of Self-Defense in ancient China, it has begun a resurgence of popularity in Western Culture as a smooth, low-impact exercise to reduce stress. A local example of Seniors benefiting from the healing arts of Tai Chi is the Friuli Terrace Seniors Residence. Sensei Peter Pesce, a Tai Chi instructor and enthusiast, leads a weekly class of differently abled seniors through a graceful series of movements, for those seeking to maintain or improve their range of motion. This group of seniors have shown their acuity, by learning the multiple forms in short order. This in of itself illustrates the body-mind connection, and the enhancement thereof through the discipline of Tai Chi. “They continue to surprise and challenge me to create programs of greater difficulty while still remaining achievable. These Seniors are keeping me sharp and at the top of my game as an instructor. I have a great respect for this group and we continue to learn, and laugh together.” Says Sensei Peter owner of Woodbridge Kempo Martial Arts Academy in Woodbridge, Ontario. “One of the nice things about Tai Chi, is that you don't need any special equipment or clothing. It is a form of exercise accessible to those with varying physical abilities. Many movements can even be modified for persons seated, and for those in wheelchairs.”
Photo credits: Oretta Avoledo – Special Events Co-ordinator Friuli Terrace | The Mayo Clinic advocates perusing the rewards of exercise including Tai Chi and states on their web site that the potential benefits may include; ・ Reducing anxiety and depression ・ Improving balance and coordination ・ Reducing the number of falls ・ Improving sleep quality, such as staying asleep longer at night and feeling more alert during the day ・ Slowing bone loss in women after menopause ・ Lowering blood pressure ・ Improving cardiovascular fitness ・ Relieving chronic pain ・ Improving everyday physical functioning The Arthritis Society of Canada is often asked whether Tai Chi can help people with Rheumatoid Arthritis. “One study tested and showed that the range of motion of the ankle, hip and knee improved more when doing Tai Chi than not doing Tai Chi. After 10 weeks of Tai Chi and then 4 months later, people doing Tai Chi enjoyed the programme and felt that they had improved more than people who did not do Tai Chi." Health Canada: “Research shows that physical inactivity can cause premature death, chronic disease and disability. Health Canada encourages Canadians to integrate physical activity into their everyday life." For other information on active living, visit the Canadian Health Network, a consumer health information service brought to you by Health Canada and major health organizations across Canada. For those interested in finding a Tai Chi class or instructor, many can be found through a local community center or association. It is often a good idea to ask to watch a class first to decide if the program is right for you. Many reputable organizations will offer free trials.
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“Sensei Peter Pesce leads Seniors through the gentle and beneficial movements of Tai Chi”