TAI CHI FOR HEALTH RETREATS
The Tai Chi for Health Retreats are designed for individuals, and small groups who do not have time to attend weekly classes. Our goal is to provide in two days of in depth personal practice that would normally take many weeks of hourly classes.
We believe that with a good foundation in understanding the principles of Tai Chi, people will practice on their own and enjoy it more as well.

The benefit of learning from great teachers, whose teaching methodology developed by Dr. Lam, results in an increased personal confidence to continue. This is one of the most effective ways to learn Tai Chi for Health. Over time, you can develop a deeper understanding of your posture and breathing as you move, and how this improves your health with consistency of practicing the Tai Chi exercises.

As Dr. Lam often states “when people do what they enjoy, they will enjoy doing it again”. It has been said that Tai Chi exercises develop a self correcting, self reinforcing change of habits that contribute to reduced stress, improved muscle strength and flexibility.

Our goal is to provide you the opportunity to experience how to develop a deeper understanding of the wisdom of these ancient Tai Chi Principles for certain chronic conditions.

For more information about recent clinical research on Tai Chi, click here: Clinical Research

TAI CHI HELPS ALLEVIATE OSTEOPOROSIS
BY DR .PAUL LAM

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become fragile and brittle, leading to a higher risk of fractures. It is almost as common as high blood pressure. Osteoporosis, usually has no signs or symptoms, until a fracture occurs.

Fractures can lead to long term pain and disability, loss of independence and may even contribute to premature death. Osteoporosis is a serious condition that responds to medical treatment and lifestyle changes.

Dr Lam’s team has designed a specific program based on recent clinical research. This safe and effective program is supported by Osteoporosis Australia. The program will also improve relaxation, fitness and health.

Like all other Dr Lam’s Tai Chi for Health programs, learning the TCO set of movements will improve health and quality of life. It is suitable for almost anyone.

HOW DOES TAI CHI WORK FOR OSTEOPOROSIS?
BY DR .PAUL LAM
Synopsis
Tai Chi is an increasingly popular exercise because it is enjoyable and beneficial for health. Suitable exercise is an important part of the treatment for people with osteoporosis.

Tai Chi works by slowing down bone loss, improving balance, reducing falls, and improving quality of life. A specially designed Tai Chi program has advantages in terms of safety and efficacy.

What is Tai Chi?
" Tai Chi is sometimes described as 'meditation in motion.' ... Health benefits include increased flexibility, greater balance and reduced stress…" Mayoclinic.com

There are numerous forms of Tai Chi, each with significant differences in terms of physical exertion, appearance and training methods. The majorities of Tai Chi styles, however, are slow and gentle and can be suitable for people with osteoporosis. Tai Chi movements are fluid and graceful, although they can be difficult to learn, for example, the most popular Yang style has a set of 108 forms that can take an average student two years to complete. Well-modified forms for health benefits are safer and easier to learn.

Choosing an exercise
Osteoporosis mostly affects older people who often suffer from other medical problems. An exercise that can improve not only osteoporosis but also any other medical conditions should be considered. It is also important to enjoy the exercise otherwise it won't be adhered to. Questions such as 'Do I like the exercise?' 'Is it helping me as a person?', 'Does it help me to relax?', 'Does it improve my ability to do my daily activities?', "Has my pain decreased since exercising?' should be considered.

How Does Tai Chi Work for Osteoporosis?
There are many ways that Tai Chi works well for people with osteoporosis and other conditions. Listed below are the important factors supported by medical studies.

Bone Loss
An excellent study showed Tai Chi slowed down the loss of bone mineral density approximately three fold. Another study indicated that people who practice tai chi regularly have higher bone mineral density and better flexibility, muscle strength and balance.

Fall Prevention
Many studies have shown that Tai Chi reduces falls. This is especially important because when people with osteoporosis fall they are more like to sustain a fracture. A fracture can be a very serious problem for example hip fractures have a mortality rate of approximately 50%. It also seriously affects your quality of life. Tai Chi has also been shown to improve balance and strength so even if you fall, you have a lesser chance of serious injury.

Associated Conditions
People with osteoporosis often have arthritis, loss of function due to age and weakness. Studies have shown that tai chi relieves pain from arthritis, improves balance and the ability to do daily activities.

Stress
People with chronic conditions such as osteoporosis are more likely to be mentally stressed and depressed because of the increasing inability to function normally on a day-to-day basis. Tai Chi has been shown to improve the mind, help people feel more relaxed and improve mental strength so they can cope better with chronic diseases.