These classes are for people whose primary interest in taking Tai Chi is for health reasons. We teach the Tai Chi for Health program, developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The Arthritis, Diabetes, and Osteoporosis foundations support these programs. Students in these classes often have concerns such as balance and joint concerns or moderate (not minor) health concerns such as a chronic illness such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic pain syndrome, diabetes, MS, rehabilitation issues, etc. They may also suffer moderate to severe pain such as joint problems, back pain, trouble standing for more than one hour, disabilities, etc. Students with any of these concerns also do well in the Nam Hoa classes. All programs practice gentle breath and joint flexibility exercises, meditation practice, and the gentle Chinese moving meditation program. These one hour classes are taught weekly and students may drop in or enroll monthly.

We recommend ONE of the following programs:

Tai Chi for Arthritis

Dr. Paul Lam designed this program using his family Sun Style Tai Chi. He found that as he got older, his arthritis made it challenging for him to do his regular Tai Chi movements without causing flare-up of this disease. He modified the Sun style so as to be so gentle that it would not cause him an Arthritis flare up.

We have found this program to be a wonderful one hour program for others with chronic illnesses. All instructors are certified by the Dr. Paul Lam program and receive additionally training with the Bending Tree Tai Chi Instructor Training program prior to receiving an Associate Instructor position with Bending Tree. This program is a wonderful place for those with arthritis (and other chronic illnesses) to exercise gently and improve their overall wellness. Students in this class often find that after completing this gentle form, they are able to move on to the Nam Hoa Tai Chi/Qigong program. 

Tai Chi for Diabetes

Diet, exercise, and controlling stress are the cornerstones of diabetes management. Tai Chi for Diabetes is a carefully designed exercise program based on Tai Chi principles and movements that has been shown to be safe and effective in improving the control of diabetes. This program was designed by Dr. Paul Lam, Internist, to address many of the major problems and complications associated with the various types of diabetes. The class is one hour long, meets once a week, and focuses on building strength, balance and flexibility through slow, fluid movements combined with mental imagery and deep breathing. Studies have shown Tai Chi to have beneficial effects on cardio-respiratory fitness, muscular strength, balance, peripheral circulation, reduced tension and anxiety which in turn helps minimize the complications of diabetes.

This one hour is specifically designed with exercises, breath work, and the modified Sun Style form for people with Diabetes.