New sessions of two gentle Chinese martial arts designed to improve health and well-being are starting soon in Melksham.
Tai Chi and Qi Gong are known for their slow, intentional movements, gentle exercise and breathing practices offering benefits to both mental and physical health.
Sessions in Melksham are being run at Berryfield Village Hall by local practitioner Mary-Ann Pickett on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
“The sessions are a chance to discover Tai Chi, a gentle martial art, and Qi Gong, a focused breathing method,” said Mary-Ann. “They are powerful yet relaxing, and practiced together, provide improved balance and concentration. An important point to note is that this is not a quick fix but a discipline which delivers with practice. ‘’
“Beginners are welcome and can contact me so we can have a chat and decide on the best group for their need and ability.”
One of Mary-Ann’s regulars is Jenny Spark who started practising Tai Chi 15 years ago as part of a pre knee replacement programme. ‘‘I have learned to move slowly and find it very calming,” said Jenny. “It helps me cope day by day.
“The Qi Gong breathing helped with my asthma. Even after a lesson I can practice at home. After both my knee operations I found doing Tai Chi helped with my recovery. I would say to anyone thinking of doing Tai Chi to give it a try; it benefits your whole body from the breathing exercises and makes you feel good within yourself.’’
Another regular at Mary-Ann’s sessions is Sue Farmer who says, ‘‘It is so beneficial to the mind and body; Dantian breathing is so helpful with my asthma and chest infection when I get them.
“The way of moving helps with all joints, no matter how small the movement is. It’s quite remarkable, posture improves and the best thing is feeling calm.’’
Mary-Ann added, “Other students have said that practising has made them more patient in stressful situations and more able to see things in perspective, which is no small feat in our stressful world.
“On a physical level, the improved balance gained with regular practice as part of a fall-prevention initiative is striking and well documented in many worldwide studies.
“The Arthritis Foundation and Diabetes UK have conducted and published studies that found that the regular practice of targeted Tai Chi sets would be beneficial to their members.
“I teach Tai Chi solely for the health benefits, which include improved confidence and energy.”
There will be taster sessions on 12th, 19th and 26th November with a view to start a new complete beginners group in January at Berryfield Village Hall on Telford Drive.
You may book your place and get all other information by contacting Mary-Ann on jmaolsen@icloud.com or on 07711 871750.
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