It feels good on those days when your body and mind are in sync! Some people say, “I’m just going with the flow,” or “I’m in the zone today.” There is a way to make this flow of life happen more often and Tai Chi can help you achieve this.

A Tai Chi experience includes gentle forms and movements, breath work, and focusing your attention on the body’s movements. Some people describe Tai Chi as a moving meditation. Because of the blend of physical activity and mindful attention, Tai Chi brings together two powerful approaches to improve health and quality of life: exercise and mindfulness. It is gentle and simple, yet powerful.

Follow along with this 12.5 minute video featuring Roger Currier, a recreation therapist and certified applied Tai Chi instructor from the James A. Haley VA Medical Center in Tampa, FL, who demonstrates a Tai Chi lesson with seated and standing options.

 

Tai Chi can be practiced alone or in a group. Have you seen Tai Chi being practiced in your local park? When we do a movement activity with others, we also get the benefits of community. Those with like interests tend to support each other and encourage good health and relationships. After practicing with this video, you may be interested in looking for community events in your area to join others in the practice of Tai Chi.

If you want to learn more about Tai chi, check out this handout.

Going with the flow is hard when life is a raging river

If you feel that life is unmanageable, consider reaching out for help. VA has a variety of mental health resources, information, treatment options and more—all accessible to Veterans, Veterans’ supporters and the general public. Explore the pages below to learn more about a specific mental health topic or to find information tailored to your needs. Learn more here or visit Don’t Wait. Reach out. (va.gov).

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2 Comments

  1. Frank bell February 7, 2023 at 07:46

    How can I learn 24 style Tai chi at the va

  2. Brian Clay Parten February 4, 2023 at 00:46

    I LIKE IT, THANKS VA! I’LL TRY THIS… I’M BASICALLY FREE-LANCING AT PRESENT WITH PHYSICAL THERAPY AFTER SURGERY FOR A, “TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT”. I SEE A REASON FOR THIS IN MY ROUTINE. ALSO, I THINK IT COULD HELP ME REGAIN SOME FOCUS & IMPROVE MY ATTITUDE. THIS IS GOOD STUFF!

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