What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi originates from Ancient China. Nowadays it is practiced throughout the world as an effective exercise for health. Tai Chi consists of gentle flowing movements that are relaxed and slow; breathing is deepened and slowed, aiding visual and mental concentration. It can be practiced almost anywhere and is a suitable form of exercise for just about everyone. The correct name for ‘Tai Chi’ is ‘Tai Chi Chuan’ (Taijiquan) which means ‘supreme ultimate fist’ or boxing, and is referred to as ‘Moving Meditation’.
Tai Chi is a gentle exercise that provides practical methods to help people cope better with daily tasks and improve their quality of life.
How does it work for Diabetes?
Regular physical activity can aid people with diabetes by helping them improve their blood glucose levels. As a form of exercise, it is reasonable to assume Tai Chi will help improve cellular glucose uptakes and glucose metabolism.
Diabetes research studies held by the Australian Tai Chi Institute in conjunction with St George Hospital Sydney (Australia) showed those participants who maintained regular Tai Chi classes enjoyed significant improvement in their quality of life. The mental training is effective for relaxation, which is especially beneficial to people with diabetes.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, enhancing life energy (Qi) in the appropriate acupuncture meridians (energy channels) will improve diabetes.
What is Tai Chi for Arthritis?
Tai Chi for Arthritis is a program specially designed by Dr. Paul Lam in conjunction with his Tai Chi Associates and a team of medical experts. Based on the Sun style, Tai Chi for Arthritis is easy to learn, effective and safe.
Scientific studies conducted in 2001 by the Korean and Taiwan National Universities have shown this program to significantly relieve pain and improve physical function.
Can Tai Chi help back pain?
Back pain is a common and complex problem. According to new medical findings, it is closely associated with the deep stabilising muscles of the spine. Tai Chi’s essential principles are consistent with scientific methodology for strengthening the deep stabilising muscles.
Where can we learn more?
Newcastle based Master Trainer Cheryl Lee began Tai Chi training in 1988 in Australia and Hong Kong, centring her traditional training in Sydney with Master Fong Lee and Master Kam Fung.
Her ‘Tai Chi Wellness’ and “Tai Chi 4 Kidz™” Instructor Certification Courses are approved by Fitness Australia and recognised nationwide.
The only Tai Chi Master Trainer in the Hunter Region accredited to the Australian Sports Commission, her passion for the many health benefits of Tai Chi inspired her focus on ‘Tai Chi for Health’ programs. Cheryl Lee is certified in Tai Chi for Arthritis, Diabetes and Back Pain and is one of only 45 world wide accredited Master Trainers in Health Forms.
