Seniors flock to free Tai Chi
Tai Chi newcomer Jenny Meggs says she finds it mesmerising and relaxing to practise the Chinese art.
The Stoke resident was one of 14 people who attended a free hour-long session on Monday in the gardens of Broadgreen House, as part of a Summer Activity Programme for Seniors. Age Concern Nelson Tasman in conjunction with Nelson City Council has put together a six-week schedule of free activities for the summer programme.
Meggs and fellow Stoke resident Sue Taylor said they had previously attended a couple of sessions run by the Nelson branch of the Taoist Tai Chi Society of New Zealand and intended to stick with the activity.
‘‘I’m enjoying the slow, flowing movement,’’ Meggs said.
‘‘It’s nice; it’s not a competition,’’ Taylor said.
Taoist Tai Chi instructor Wendy Wilson said it took about five months to complete the beginner class.
‘‘After that, you carry on,’’ said Wilson, who has been an instructor for about 14 years.
There was a 108-move set to learn, made up of about 47 different moves. The participants at Broadgreen gardens completed about nine moves on Monday.
‘‘Repetition is how we learn,’’ Wilson said.
Taoist Tai Chi had lots of health benefits for the body, mind and spirit.
Wilson said she used to work at a keyboard and found Tai Chi helped with the effects of that repetitive action.
‘‘It works the muscles and nerves, into the shoulders and neck.’’
Taoist Tai Chi could also help with balance, posture and memory.
‘‘We use both sides of the brain,’’ Wilson said.
The Nelson branch had about 240 members and ran classes across Nelson to Wakefield and Mapua.
Interested people could call 545 8375 for more information. They could also try one of three more free sessions as part of the summer activity programme – from 10am to 11am at Victory Square on March 3, At Riverside Reserve next to the swimming pool on March 14 or at Anzac Park on March 23.
Other free activities on the summer programme include disc golf, singalongs in parks, heritage walks and a half-marathon challenge. Call Age Concern on 544 7624 for more information.