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I began learning Tai Chi approximately four years ago under the instruction of Gordon Muir. I have attended Tai Chi lessons at both Burnside and Monterey centres for those years and continue to do so at the Monterey Centre.. I did take a break from these centres for medical reasons not connected in any way to the arthritus I have, but had discovered that my thyroid gland had once more become activated and my medication was therefore over prescribed. I put this down in large part to my greatly improved mental and physical healthI as I embraced Tai Chi with enthusuasm sparked by Gordon, his patience, understanding and encouragement.
I am a senior in my seventies and have osteo arthritus in both my feet and hands so many of the fitness classes are not suitable for me, although I had enrolled in them and was unable to complete the courses. Tai Chi has proven that I can not only become more fit but can be very positive in my attitude towards the debilitating and depressing side effects of the arthritus. The flexibilty has not only remained stable in my hands and feet but has actually improved. Under Gordon's encouragement and understanding of my limitations I feel more confident when walking and in using my hands . The arthritus has not only remained stable but the pain has been reduced. I face physical activities with more confidence and have developed a positive attitude through Tai Chi plus guidance from the Arthritus Centre (who strongly endorse Tai Chi and Qi Gong), to attempt to use my hands in ordinary chores which I would not have attempted before.
Tai Chi has brought such enjoyment into my llife. I need no equipment in my home I can practise as much as I can in small amounts of time and space and a feeling of achievement brings smiles to my face that is difficult to achieve in other physical activities. I must also say that due to the improvement in in attitude and success with the increase confidence in my mobility I have ben able to take up more physical activities.
Kathleen McCutcheon
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