The medical goal of today is to learn how to age successfully. That is aging without disease, with a high mental or cognitive ability, and still having a social responsibility. The design of the health care system focuses on the treatment of existing ailments rather than being proactive to prevent the onset of chronic and acute diseases. Really, what the medical model of health care should be advertising is the importance of physical activity participation, importance of sleep, how to reduce stress, and eating a nutritious and balanced diet to avoid diseases rather than maintainance.
Tai Chi is an ancient form of “exercise as medicine”. Tai Chi promotes mindfulness which is known to decrease the likelihood of developing age related dementia’s. Tai Chi has been found to increase people’s balance as well as proprioceptive awareness which significantly reduces the risk of falling: The fear of falling is a major contributor to social isolation among the aging population because people are afraid to leave their home due to the risk of injury. Read more about the health benefits of Tai Chi here at this link provided by Harvard University.
Master Yuan is a Shaolin Temple monk who dreams of sharing the ancient wisdom of Tai Chi in Toronto and across North America. Tai Chi is provided by him every Tuesday from 1-2pm. Check out our schedule to see more of Master Yuan, and other classes offered here at The Yoga Lounge.
http://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-health-benefits-of-tai-chi