Gentle movement brings real benefits
LEANNE Gamze didn’t really know anything at all about tai chi until it was recommended to her by a friend.
She signed up for the Townsville Taoist Tai Chi beginner’s class in April 2019 to see if it could assist with pain management for her back and hip, and overall quality of life.
Leanne was extremely surprised with the many benefits she has received.
Due to the way the tai chi creates gentle stretching of the spine, she has noticed improvements in her posture and movement, and feels more relaxed.
“An added bonus is that it has also assisted my balance and strength that had been adversely affected by muscular dystrophy,” Leanne said.
As a breast cancer survivor, Leanne said the slow, gentle, continuous flowing movement of her arms during the tai chi set had enhanced her lymphatic system.
“I have also found that I now have a wider range of movement in my arms,” she added. “There are fewer tingling feelings and numbness, which are side effects of breast cancer.”
The gentle movement of the joints during foundation exercises helped with osteo arthritis in her fingers. This has led to improved flexibility and movement over time.
Leanne said her beginner instructor was extremely compassionate and understanding.
From the first lesson, she was encouraged to do movements slowly, and was always given the opportunity to take a break whenever necessary.
“I have always felt supported and motivated by all the instructors and other class members,” she said.
Leanne keeps coming back to classes as she finds tai chi to be exercise she can physically manage, while continuing to see and feel the benefits it brings each week.
“You are always learning,” she said. “When you can make the connections and feel the flow, it is a wonderful experience. I only wish I had known about Taoist Tai Chi years ago.”