As we get older, we all look for ways to keep our bodies and minds active. As someone who has long participated in Tai Chi classes at a senior college, I have discovered that this sport is far more than just slow movement exercises. It is a complete health system that integrates breathing, meditation and body coordination. It can not only improve balance, but also reduce joint pain. More importantly, it provides a precious social venue for the elderly.
How Tai Chi Improves Balance in Older Adults
The biggest concern for many elders is the risk of falling, and Tai Chi’s unique value lies in its ability to target our sense of balance. When we slowly shift the center of gravity between the legs, and at the same time cooperate with deep breathing, it actually enhances the stability of the calves and core muscles without causing damage to the knee joints. I have seen many students who initially needed to hold on to the wall to practice, but after half a year they were able to complete a full set of movements on one leg independently. This kind of progress is not only reflected in the control of the body, but also brings the confidence to dare to go out independently. Continuous balance training can also activate proprioception, allowing the nervous system to establish a more acute communication mechanism with muscle tissue.
The rehabilitative effect of Tai Chi on chronic diseases
For people with high blood pressure, Tai Chi is an auxiliary therapy with advantages that cannot be replaced by drugs. I have personally seen boxers with high blood pressure reduce their systolic blood pressure by 15 mm Hg after three months of regular practice. When the movements are synchronized with diaphragmatic breathing, the parasympathetic nerves will be activated, and the blood vessels will naturally relax. For arthritis patients, Tai Chi Lessons , arc movements such as cloud hands can gently move the shoulder and hip joints, promote synovial fluid secretion without aggravating wear and tear. The key is that the range of these movements can be adjusted according to individual physical conditions, and sitting exercises are also effective.
How to choose the right Tai Chi class
Beginners, faced with all kinds of publicity about Tai Chi classes, should pay attention to whether the instructor has experience in teaching sports for the elderly. Since high-quality courses will be pre-tested and evaluated, and the teaching will be graded according to the cardiopulmonary function of the students, I recommend that you try the introductory class first. This introductory class uses simplified twenty-four poses to prevent frustration from learning complex routines directly. You should pay attention to whether the teaching environment has non-slip floors and sufficient handrails. These details are related to training safety. The frequency of three times a week and half an hour each time is most suitable for beginners to develop habits. The key is to maintain the quality of movements rather than pursuing quantity.
Tai Chi’s Deep Connection to Social Wellness
In the early morning, there is a Tai Chi team u3a tai chi in the park. The team is always full of laughter and laughter. The collective exercises carried out by this team create a unique social magnetic field. The atmosphere created can allow the elderly living alone to find a sense of belonging. Our class has developed into an atmosphere that presents a scene, mood, or situation. We remind each other of the behaviors we have performed to take medicine. After class, we even meet for tea and chat. This kind of regularly organized gatherings plays an effective role in alleviating the loneliness and anxiety that occurs after retirement. Even when a member is hospitalized, the boxers will take turns to visit and provide attentive and thoughtful care. As the body develops a harmonious rhythm in a practice that takes the same steps in synchrony, the mind creates a warm connection in mutual care.
Among the sports-related things you have experienced in the past, was there any time when you inadvertently gained precious friendships through a specific activity? You are welcome to share your stories in the comment area. If this article has inspired you, please don’t be stingy about giving it a like and support.