Tai Chi Your Way to Health and Well-Being

No matter your age and agility, tai chi can become a lifetime daily practice that assists you in being fit and healthy. Adults who are unable to participate in more strenuous activities or sports may find that the gentle movements of tai chi are their answer for exercise. Unlike many other physical activities, tai chi can even be adapted to those who need to sit in a chair or use a chair for extra stability while standing.

One of the many benefits attributed to tai chi is improved balance, which is extremely important as you age. One study in the UK found that 30 percent of people older than 65—and 50 percent of people over the age of 80—fall at least once a year. And recovering from a fall injury, such as a broken hip, can be very difficult. So why not try some of our tai chi classes to find out if it is the answer you’re looking for?

We have many resources for tai chi that you may find interesting. Do some “shopping” of our collection to find out which teacher(s) and approaches make the most sense and are the easiest to follow and understand. Here are some ideas for you to consider:

• Is there an introduction to the art of tai chi and how detailed is it? Can you skip it after you’ve viewed it once?
• How is the video staged (outside, inside, nature photography, etc.)? What do you prefer?
• Are the instructions clear and easy to follow?
• Do the instructors face you and allow you to mirror them? (Personally, I find it confusing to be told to turn right, but the instructor is facing to my left.) Is this important to you?

Ready to get started? Try a sampling from one of our many resources:

• Access Video on Demand
• OverDrive
• Steaming Video
• Gale Courses – search for tai chi
• OverDrive Magazines – download issues of Kung Fu Tai Chi magazine

Terri M. 
Consumer Technology Specialist