Tai Chi
For Improving Health
from the Arthritis Foundation®
Instructor
Donna Dixon
R.N./ R.C.E.P
Tai Chi from the Arthritis Foundation®
This program is designed to improve the quality of life for people with arthritis, fibromaylgia, and tendonitis using Sun style Tai Chi, one of the four major recognized styles of Tai Chi. This style includes agile steps and exercises that have been known to improve mobility, breathing and relaxation. The movements do not require deep bending or squatting, which makes it easier and more comfortable to learn. It is especially suitable as an exercise because its movements are slow and gentle, and the level of exertion is adjustable to suit each person’s physical condition. This program is also suitable for individuals new to exercise or are returning to activity after surgery.
2010 Tai Chi Session Dates
Session 1: January 11 through March 3
Session 2: March 29 through May 19
Session 3: August 9 through September 29
Session 4: October 18 through December 8
Course Description and Registration Here
See the Class: Tai Chi for Improving Health - January Class 2009
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Donna Dixon R.N./ R.C.E.P
About the Instructor
Donna Dixon is experienced in exercise instruction and planning for individuals of all levels of fitness. She is a registered nurse and clinical exercise physiologist and is an ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor. She has practiced Tai Chi since 2004 and is a certified Arthritis Foundation instructor in Tai Chi.
Program Guidelines:
Classed are open to suitable persons provided they are medically fit, are independently mobile and can participate without assistance in the class. The Tai Chi exercise in this program would be similar to walking in terms of physical exertion.
Any participant who has any doubt whether they are medically fit to attend the class, is required to have a medial clearance from their physician prior to the first class session.
Session usually last forty five minutes to one hour. Session are to start on time.
What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi originated from ancient China. Nowadays it is practiced throughout the world as an exercise for better health. Many scientific studies have proven that it is amazingly effective for health. Tai Chi:
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· Is suitable for almost anyone
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· Relieves pain and improves quality of life for people with arthritis
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· Relieves stress and improves concentration
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· Integrates body and mind
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· Relives discomfort of fibromaylgia
How does Tai Chi work?
Health and exercise experts advise that an exercise program for people with arthritis should incorporate exercise programs for people with arthritis should incorporate exercises that improve muscular strength, flexibility, and fitness. Tai Chi is proven to improve all of these components, as well as having additional health benefits. Tai chi is proven to improve all of these components, as well as having additional health benefits. Tai Chi improves relaxation, balance, posture and immunity.
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· Muscle strength is important for supporting and protecting joints, which will reduce pain.
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· Flexibility exercises also help to reduce pain and stiffness, enabling you to move easier.
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· Improves cardiovascular health.
· Tai Chi facilitates the flow of Qi (pronounced Chi) through your body. Qi is the life energy that circulates throughout the body, performing many function to maintain good health. Practicing tai chi helps to strengthen you Qi, therefore improving your health.