Tai Chi for Seniors
Tai Chi is an ideal mind-body practice combined with basic athletic training. The physical part is derived from a series of slow martial arts movements while the mindful aspect aligns with the go-with-the-flow aspects of Taoism. Together, you have a series of focused exercises that can be done in repetition or linked together in what is known as a tai chi form.
There are many styles of tai chi. Some are more vigorous and some are more serene, but the principles are ubiquitous. All the moves forbid the use of strength, and yet, when people practice tai chi, they gain strength.
Several elements of tai chi make it particularly appealing to seniors. First, most of the exercises are done on your feet. The “no pain, no gain” mentality of most Western exercise is notably absent and, in fact, discouraged in tai chi. Tai chi doesn’t have to be painful, if someone has a bad hip, knee or ankle, they get to decide how much to stretch through a movement. The same goes with exertion; exercise feels more comfortable, safe and sustainable.
One final reason tai chi is a great choice for seniors is that it seems to enhance one’s ability to navigate real-life activities like carrying groceries or climbing stairs.
Master Gary Welton offers a 7-step program to round out his unique class of Tai Chi which includes:
1. Health and Wellness
2. Meditation
3. Deep Breathing exercises
4. Balance Techniques
5. Qigong exercises
6. Yang style dance style form
7. Stress balls & stretching
Mr. Welton is a 7th degree Master Black Belt in Martial Arts since 1968 and still a practitioner in Tang So Do and Tai chi. He has participated in tournaments and seminars in Russia and Poland and has also taught martial arts in Watertown Parks and Recreation for 30 years. He is currently teaching Tai Chi for Seniors at the Middlebury Senior Center and involved in Naugatuck USA Martial Arts where he maintains practicing Tai Chi and Martial Arts.
To experience Mr. Welton’s 7 step Tai Chi class please call the Middlebury Senior Center at 203-577-4166. We hold classes on Wednesdays at 8:15 am and 9:30am; and Thursday evenings at 5:30pm.