Try Tai Chi for Arthritis

  Beginning June 1, the Baum Center will be holding Tai Chi for Arthritis Classes every Monday at 10:15 a.m.

  Tai chi originated in ancient China where it is considered a martial art. Tai chi consists of slow continuous whole-body movements strung together in a form. Like dance, the movements are learned and follow one after the other.  The essential principles of tai chi include mind and body integration, fluid movements. controlled breathing and mental concentration. the central focus is to enable the qi (pronounced chee) of life force, to flow smoothly and powerfully throughout the body. Total harmony of the inner and outer self comes from the integration of the mind and body. This can be achieved through regular practice.

  The Tai Chi for Arthritis program is an Arthritis Foundation-approved tai chi class formulated by tai chi experts, medical specialists and education experts to create an easy-to-learn, safer and more effective tai chi form. The tai chi form is based on the Sun (pronounced soon)-style tai chi. Sun style is especially beneficial for arthritis because it contains powerful Oigong exercise to enhance healing and agile steps to improve mobility.

  In September 2003, the Journal of Rheumatology published a study that compared older adults with arthritis. After 12 weeks, those who practiced this form had 35 percent less pain, 29 percent less stiffness, 29 percent more ability to perform daily tasks, as well as improved balance, compared to the control group.

  The largest tai chi for fall prevention study in a community setting was published by the Journal of American Geriatrics Societyin August 2007. Subjects practiced a modified tai chi program which incorporated 80 percent of the Tai Chi for Arthritis program. The results indicate that falls were reduced by 35 percent and reduction in multiple or recurring falls was 70 percent.

  Tai chi has also been shown to improve many aspects of health including relieving pain and stiffness, relieving stress, improving concentration, balance, posture and heart and lung function.

  Aubrey Remige, a certified Tai Chi for Arthritis instructor, will lead the class. For  more information call Remige at 475-5644 or aubreyr@darenc.com.