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Tai Chi is a series of gentle movements, which are becoming increasingly popular with people of all ages no matter what their physical ability. It is a recreational exercise art that was developed in China by the bringing together a mix of Chinese philosophy, martial arts and health practices. It was practiced by Monks to compliment their sedentary life-style of meditation and enable their bodies to become healthy.
Tension blocks the flow of vital energy that sustains life, otherwise known as Chi and is affected by the way we live and the exercise we perform (Acupuncture is another sophisticated way of working on the flow of chi).
Tai-Chi consists of soft, flowing movements working the mind and body as one thereby improving concentration, balance and co-ordination. A vital benefit being appreciated for its relaxation qualities, which dramatically reduces stress levels and as a consequence promotes better breathing, circulation, resistance to illness and improved posture. The type of relaxation it seeks is of a “dynamic” nature as opposed to a “lying down” nature and brings about a balance between your sympathetic (responsible for action) and parasympathetic (responsible for well-being) nervous system.
Through it’s slow, safe, mild movement Tai-Chi stretches the muscles, tendons and ligaments and puts the joints through a full range of motion and exercise, releasing all the tensions and stresses of our modern day life. Your mind becomes stilled and focused on your body whilst directing and controlling its movement. It revitalises your energy levels and restores a positive attitude to life.
Tai-Chi energy (chi) is also concerned that our diet observes the optimum quantity and quality of chi being taken into the body during the digestive process by eating the right mix of foods. What you eat can actually increase levels of stress therefore being aware of the right food to eat will dramatically improve your ability to cope during stressful times.
You do not need to wear any special clothing to practice Tai Chi, simply comfortable, loose fitting clothes such as tee shirt, tracksuit and soft flat shoes. Whenever the weather permits we practice outside in the fresh air otherwise we retreat to the large bright hall inside the hotel.
YOGA “union”
The word Yoga means union and is a form of exercise based on the understanding that the body and breath are connected with the mind. Yoga benefits both mind and body. It is suitable for everyone, young and old and for all levels of fitness. Yoga is carried out very slowly, is non-competitive and worked at your own pace.
Through the practice of proper breathing you unlock energy and vitality. Yoga includes relaxation to release tension which is vital to keeping the body healthy..
Yoga practice consists of meditation, which is a state of consciousness and teaches you how to calm the mind and focus your mental energy. Meditation helps to relieve stress and replenish your energy and enables you to think more positively. Breathing and meditation are powerful tools for dealing with stress management.
By incorporating all of these principles you ease tensed muscles, tone up the internal organs and improve the flexibility of the body’s joints and ligaments.
To maintain a healthy body and calm mind, free from restless thought proper diet and nutrition should compliment your activity in Yoga. Eating healthy foods and avoiding the wrong food stuffs helps to increase mental tranquillity.
You do not need to wear any special clothing, simply comfortable, loose fitting clothes such as tee shirt and tracksuit for freedom of movement. Whenever the weather allows, as we require dry ground, we practice outside in the fresh air otherwise we retreat to the large hall inside the hotel. Mats will be provided and it is best to practise in bare feet but if you suffer from the cold, you can wear socks.