Tai chi : Hiya I’ve being reading up on tai chi and... - NRAS

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Tai chi

Nuttyshirlz profile image
56 Replies

Hiya

I’ve being reading up on tai chi and yoga on how it’s good for ppl like us with arthritis.

Does anyone do it and if so are you finding any benefit from it.

I’m not a gym bunny and never have being.

But I’ve found a dvd on Amazon called

QI going fire and water.A few ppl which looks interesting.The second part is water and helps you sleep.

Any feedback would be gratefully received.

Thanks for your time.

Shirlz 🧚‍♂️

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Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz
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56 Replies
Nettac profile image
Nettac

Hello there

I've often thought about having a bash at these. Tai chi in particular seems attractive to me. Nice gentle movements. I know lots of folks get a lot out of yoga. I'm slightly worried about getting up from the floor with yoga. However I think there is yoga you can do sitting in a chair.

I think any exercise that you can manage, and enjoy is pretty good for you.

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Nettac

That is mostly what I do sit on chair lol that’s what put me off yoga I no once on floor I’m stuck x

Nettac profile image
Nettac in reply to Nuttyshirlz

Yes, it's a bit humiliating isn't it? I look like a hippo on ice! :-D

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Nettac

lol yep even more if u live alone no knight in shining armour to come to rescue 😳

Hi Shirlz

Yes, got dr paul lam's tai chi for arthritis dvd off amazon, cheapy one. Found it quite good for days when not going out or feeling bit below par, very gentle, you can do bit at time. I do need to motivate self more tho, just reading yr post thought whoops haven't done that for while. X

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to

That’s what I want it for when I’m having good days as I no now a days I’m more couch than moving but when have bad day it’s hard to get motivated.And the classes are so far away.Id have done a workout just to get there 🙂

in reply to Nuttyshirlz

Aw no, hope it helps Shirlz, even warm ups were good on it, little bit at a time, take care x

Paula-C profile image
Paula-C

My consultant said it’s good for people with RA.

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Paula-C

Yes so did mine but I’m thinking more to try stop my joints from getting worse than there are.Im thinking positive today. As everyday is a challenge 🙂

helixhelix profile image
helixhelix

I do Pilates weekly which helps a lot. There isn't a Tai Chi or QiGong class nearby, but I have done those when I have had an opportunity and also found them helpful.

Go for it! Amy exercise helps and you don't need to be a gym bunny. Generally best to start off in a class with a qualified teacher so you get the moves right, and it also helps motivation!

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to helixhelix

I couldn’t do Pilates I’ve problems with arthritis in knees that’s why I was thinking of tai chi.all I’ve found near me are heavy fitness groups and when I was working never had problems but since it’s took over my knees I’m struggling so trying to help my self as much has I can 🙂

helixhelix profile image
helixhelix in reply to Nuttyshirlz

I think that be more to do with the teacher than you! We have a huge range of problems in our Pilates class and the teacher finds alternative positions for people with problems in specific areas. Give Tai chi a go!

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to helixhelix

Sounds like you got a good teacher.Ive ordered the dvd alside a cook book The doctors kitchen as seen on this morning x

Gillian1163 profile image
Gillian1163

I have RA and do tai chi weekly at a class geared to those of us with mobility issues. I find it very helpful as it encourages me to do a range of movements but only as much as is comfortable for me. It's also helpful with balance. Give it a go but if you look for a class avoid those that dwell on self defence rather than health benefits

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Gillian1163

Yes I’m looking into it plus as this is a lonely illness might meet ppl in same position has myself so can help all round x

Nettac profile image
Nettac in reply to Nuttyshirlz

I agree, a class with other folks is probably better than doing it on your own. More motivating, more fun, and social.

There's a therabands class near me run by a physio. However it's 60 quid a term! No way can I afford that. I think there might be an exercise class in the local village hall. Going to look into that.

Honestly though, I would prefer Tai Chi.

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Nettac

Can’t you get help with costs with helping your arthritis.mine also does but it’s two buses away as it’s at hospital x

helixhelix profile image
helixhelix in reply to Nettac

Have you asked them about a discount? Sometimes people can be generous.....

ruth_p profile image
ruth_p

I would probably find a class to go to as the instructor will make sure you are doing the moves correctly so you don’t hurt yourself. They can also modify the moves for you. 🧘‍♂️

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to ruth_p

Thanks does not take much to hurt myself now a days x

AllyWelshDragon profile image
AllyWelshDragon

Yes I do Pilates and find it helps amazingly well. I don't get anywhere near as much joint pain and it's really toned my muscles too. I also do Spin Classes for cardiovascular exercises as it doesn't impact your joints and keeps heart and lungs healthy.

Ally

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to AllyWelshDragon

Wow don’t think I could do spins as I’ve bad knees but good that you can 🙂

vonniesims profile image
vonniesims

I find aquarobics a good workout. No pressure on joints, all joints worked out and enough exercise to get breathless if you choose, or you can do it more gently.

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to vonniesims

I have email local leisure centre to ask what there do for ppl with arthritis but I’m yet to receive a reply x

Tiggytiger88 profile image
Tiggytiger88

I have been doing tai chi for over a year now and I find that it is excellent for me. It’s gentle exercise and if you struggle with the moves no one is bothered . They welcome people with disabilities. I have had RA for 30yrs and so wish I had taken it up earlier also there is the social aspect. There are lots of classes in Essex

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Tiggytiger88

Yes I’m trying to help myself as I’m hoping to have a few years left yet and I no my life I’ve got at min is not healthy x

Rulds2 profile image
Rulds2

I used to attend a weekly yoga class but had to give it up because I couldn’t cope with pressure on hands and getting up and down on the floor, also I got chilled on floor , chair yoga might be an option but my Ra Fibro is so bad that just raising my arms hurts ......only you know your limits ......good luck

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Rulds2

I also have fibromyalgia with my arthritis so I do know where your coming from and understand I also feel that pain just some days brushing my hair is a challenge in its self things u take for granted x

Rulds2 profile image
Rulds2 in reply to Nuttyshirlz

That is so true , most days are so difficult and painful to just get bra on and wash dry and brush hair, feeling for you too

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Rulds2

It’s first thing I remove if I do get out 🙂

Rulds2 profile image
Rulds2 in reply to Nuttyshirlz

The world is not ready or me without a bra !

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Rulds2

Me neither but I live alone so only I no lol and anyone reading this lol

JoParis profile image
JoParis

Agree with most posters that a class is best, you learn to do it properly and being with people in a peaceful, constructive atmosphere is good for the morale. Both tai chi and qi gong are brilliant, I used to do tai chi, now do qi gong because it's easier on the knees (I'm heavy). The class is really good fun and lifts my spirits.

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to JoParis

I’m same has u jo I also have problems with knees arthritis but I’ve got a dvd to start off with to see if can get some get up and go 🙂

JoParis profile image
JoParis in reply to Nuttyshirlz

Good luck, Nuttyshirlz

kkminton profile image
kkminton

I do tai chi Shirlz. I started with a class on YouTube

Her name is Taiflow and she has several modules just for beginners. It is free

Just search tai chi for beginners taiflow and it will come right up.

I also do jake mace tai chi for beginners. I have been doing it every morning before work and it reduces my stress and gets me moving much faster (reduces stiffness!

I just caution you to watch your knees. Here is a video that shows you how to bend your knees for tai chi or sitting or anything!

youtu.be/cCx82sXERCI

I tell you it has made a difference for my knee pain!

Have fun!

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to kkminton

I do have a few things to do with my knees that my phyo has showed me to do.Ive being looking on YouTube also.thanks for the link kkminton will look at it 🙂x

JoParis profile image
JoParis in reply to kkminton

Thanks for the link, good video, I'll try this!

Kyriew profile image
Kyriew

HI I have been doing Yoga for a few weeks. At first I thought this is awful and making me worse but I persevered and am now finding it quiet relaxing . I am very stiff so I do what I can I have explained to the instructor about my RA and she is happy for me to do what I feel I can and provides extra padding and a belt to help with holding up my legs. xxxx

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Kyriew

That’s good but do you feel it’s helping your condition as well has relaxing kyriew and how often do you go or does it depend on how your feeling 🙂

Kyriew profile image
Kyriew in reply to Nuttyshirlz

I think it is stretching my muscles and helping with the stiffness in my wrists and ankles and I do feel I have a bit more energy after Yoga. I only manage 1 day a week at present due to work ect and it is very dependent on how I am when I get up. xxx

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Kyriew

That’s good even better you can still work I miss not being at work think that was the hardest part hopefully find magic pill and I can get back out to work x

Kyriew profile image
Kyriew in reply to Nuttyshirlz

Lucky enough to be self employed. xx

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Kyriew

That’s good so u can pick and choose x

Kyriew profile image
Kyriew in reply to Nuttyshirlz

I can indeed. Trouble is I find it hard to say no and often take on too much. xxx

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Kyriew

That’s also my problem I always push myself too much x

Gillian15649 profile image
Gillian15649

I do a seated Pilates class. We use a big ball rather than a chair. The instructor modifies movements depending on our problems. It has helped me a lot. My balance is a lot better and I don't have to get up from the floor which I don't think I could do.

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to Gillian15649

Thank you for your reply Gillian it’s giving me lots of options to think about 🙂

Hello. Your question about tai chi and yoga. I did yoga many years ago and loved it. I cannot do it now because if I get onto the floor I am stuck there. Cannot kneel down either. But tai chi I also did when I was much younger. Have had pa for 50 years now so feel able to comment. I have recently taken up tai chi again. I love it. It is very gentle and you only do what you can. It makes me feel alive when I have finished. I would suggest you join a group of beginners. It is much better to do it with others. We also do Qigong which is as gentle as you need it. If there is something which hurts me I do it very gently. You work at your own pace. You can then do it at home if you wish but I enjoy the company of others. Give it a try. Good luck.

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to

Hi

Thanks for your reply.yes I’m same can’t kneel down with my knees.Its a very lonely illness I’ve found as I was a ppl person it very hard to adjust to so a group would be ideal that way if I can find one x

Try Abundant Energy. We have a good group in Sidcup but don’t know where you are. They have lots of classes. We are all beginners. Google them. Good luck

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to

I’m in a little village in Yorkshire Hun so not a lot happens here x

What a lovely place to be. Much nicer than busy smelly old London. My favourite place in England are the North Yorkshire moors.

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to

Yes it is lovely and green.I do like it and my fella likes at Cheshut he asked me to move in but I don’t like how busy it is lol drivers are crazy x

phenry60 profile image
phenry60

Hi Nuttyshirlz,

There are hundreds of articles showing research of Tai Chi & Qigong on cancers. Most are favourable and positive. Here is a readable one: ' A systematic review of the effectiveness of qigong exercise in supportive cancer care.' Cecilia L Chan, et al. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articl...

I believe that with the research I've found it is core factor in the successful remission of my CLL.

Best of luck

Patrick

Nuttyshirlz profile image
Nuttyshirlz in reply to phenry60

Thank you Patrick

I’m glad it’s helped you.

But the Chinese really do no there stuff.

I don’t think I’ve ever heard of any having arthritis or such.

I could be wrong thou.

🙂

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