Tai Chi Instructor Michael Reece at the Martial Arts Festival.
Tai Chi is a unique and gentle form of exercise which could be described as moving meditation.
The most recognisable element of Tai Chi training is the “form”, a series of slow and graceful low impact flowing circular movements designed to train postural alignment, strength, balance, flexibility, awareness, and more.
Tai Chi can be practiced by almost anybody of any age and physical condition and when practiced regularly can lead to better overall health and a reduced incidence of falls in the elderly and infirm.
Classes can be very beneficial for people suffering stress, insomnia, stiffness, arthritis, asthma, diabetes, back problems, reduced balance and muscle strength, high blood pressure and many other conditions.
Practice can also improve your memory and co-ordination.
Whatever the reason one might have for beginning Tai Chi practice, the benefits that long term students receive greatly exceed expectations.
Some more reasons to practice Tai Chi; movements are low-impact and gentle and put
minimal stress on your muscles and joints.
The risk of injury is very low.
You can do it almost anywhere, anytime, it requires very little space and no special clothing or equipment.
You can also do it at your own pace, it can be done in groups or by yourself and there are lots of movements to keep you interested.
As you become more accomplished you can add those to your routine.
Local Tai Chi Instructor Michael Reece took up the practice of Tai Chi following a number of years studying various high impact martial arts such as Hapkido and Kendo, but was forced to retire due to ongoing joint and muscular injuries.
He found Tai Chi to be a replacement that gave him not only an art to practice but improved his overall health and physical injuries at the same time.
Michael Reece is now leading classes on Saturdays at the White Crane Training Hall in Wellington on Saturdays at 10am.
Attendance is by a gold coin donation and available to anyone.
If you’re interested in joining a class contact Michael on 0401 011 115.
