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Tai Chi

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Discussion Started on Oct 24 2008 at 03:59:21 pm
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Tai Chi

I've discovered Tai Chi and it's making a difference for me. I began classes in August and I must admit it has been an interesting experience. How can something so slow be so painful? I keep asking myself that after every session. However, I am realizing the results of my efforts, thus I keep going to class. Since I have successfully (ha!) broken both my right and left femurs, this type of exercise is perfect for me. I need to learn balance and that's what Tai Chi teaches. My weekly classes are at the Lake Mary Senior Center & they are free. The instructor, Eric, is outstanding. Very understanding and his emphasis is on enjoyment along with getting a good workout. 
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      deeni
    • Last Online: Jul 23 2009
    Discussion Started on Nov 04 2008 at 08:48:17 am
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    Kudos! I spent about 5 years studying and doing Tai Chi which I learned from a wonderful master who studied directly under a Chinese Sifu who also taught Kung Fu. I tried kung fu and broke my wrist in a fall, trying to do a series of jumps. I was al old lady in a room full of young, athletic highschool boys and girls, (how did I get there?) and I heard my voice calling out "I fell and can't get up!"  Oh, no!  I did NOT want to have said that as they rushed over and picked me up. I need to get back to Tai Chi, but don't have the motivation. I was good at it, learned all of the entire form, almost could teach it. Then I got fat(ter) and quit doing it everyday as I had been doing. My hope in writing this reply to your blog is that somehow the great Tai Chi Spirit will enliven me to get off my duff and just DO IT! Thanks for your anecdote.

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    Discussion Started on Nov 04 2008 at 11:37:24 am
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    Deeni,

    I agree. It's not easy and getting motivated is the biggest factor in the success equation. However, you realize that the results are worth the effort. Thus, you're almost there. Just do it! I just did my tai chi class this morning, and I hurt everywhere. I took a pain killer just before class; and I'm still in horrible pain. I simply work through the pain. Or at least I try. As for weight issues. In early 2007, I was considered obese by every standard possible. That was difficult for me to understand since I was always the "skinny kid" and weighed only 98 pounds when I became pregnant. Being overweight really depressed me, but it happened as a result of my cancer treatments. Thus, my doctors didn't really put too much emphasis on the weight gain. But, it bothered me. When I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in early 2007, that's when things really changed. I attended classes and learned about portion control. That did it for me. Now, just over a year later, I weigh 50 pounds less. And I feel great and look so much better. I can see and feel the difference. 
    Go for it! Keep me posted on your success...
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    Discussion Started on Jan 06 2009 at 11:48:44 am
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    Hi,
    I have a bit of a balance problem and I've always wanted to learn Tai Chi.   I could never find any classes near me or at a time when I could do it.  Do you have to live in Lake Mary to go to that class?  I had not heard people describe the practice in such "painful" terms before.  That's a little scary!   Do you have arthritis along with the broken bones?
    Susan
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    Discussion Started on Jan 06 2009 at 02:33:01 pm
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    No, you don't need to live in Lake Mary. I'm a Sanford resident. As for pain, unfortunately, I live in chronic pain. I was in class today. There are always moves I cannot do; others, I may try and not accomplish. But, I've been helped by the class for sure. I was telling the instructor what a difference it has made. I take a water fitness class at the Oviedo Y. And, I'm seeing a huge difference when I work out in the pool. My balance has really improved -- I'd say big time! I can now balance myself on one leg and not feel all out of sync -- plus, I'm overcoming my fear of falling. That's a huge step for me. When I fell this past spring, we were not even sure exactly what happened or how I fell. That's scary! Anyway, I would strongly encourage you to try out tai chi. (After you consult with your doctor if you're under any special care.) My bones, by the way, are strong. My last DEXA scan (in August) indicated I have strong bone density. So, breaking my bones, etc. has nothing to do with bone strength. And, yes, I have arthritis. So, I can't do some of the tai chi moves due to this condition. Again, I just have fun doing what I can do, and reap the benefits that are provided. Good luck to you!
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