Gentle yet effective exercise for those living with long-term conditions…

Tai Chi classes at LiveWell Kew are on MONDAY 11:00 – 12:00  –  SEE DATES + BOOK HERE

Finding ways to stay fit, healthy and as mobile as possible when you have a chronic illness can be difficult.

Most forms of exercise exert strain on muscles, bones and joints. But the graceful, flowing movements of tai chi differ in many ways to other exercises.

The circular movements are never forced, muscles stay relaxed rather than tensed and connective tissues are not stretched.

Low-impact and slow-moving, tai chi is the exercise for everyone.

‘It’s really gentle and I don’t have to move far – which is really important to me,’ says Zoe Hughes, who has Ehlers Danlos Syndrome; a genetic disorder that weakens the connective tissues of the body.

‘I’m trying tai chi for gentle conditioning to help me stay out of a wheelchair for as long as possible. The importance of being mobile for someone like me is crucial if I am to avoid becoming chair-bound too early.

‘However, it’s rare to find any form of exercise that is gentle enough. Even Pilates was too much for me, causing my shoulders to dislocate. But this mindful, graceful movement doesn’t demand too much and can be done in my own time and space.’

No prior knowledge or equipment is necessary. Just wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle.

It is important to consult your doctor before embarking on any new exercise if you have an existing medical condition.

Try Tai Chi at LiveWell Kew!

MONDAY 11:00 – 12:00  –  SEE DATES + BOOK HERE

Don’t forget to check out our timetable for this week’s classes and our exciting upcoming events page!

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