
TAI CHI FOR HEALTH
What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a martial art that has many direct and beneficial applications for health. Tai Chi incorporates many principles of movement and exercise. In addition, Tai Chi has a mind body component that develops as the movements become more comfortable and familiar. It can become ‘meditation in motion’ which builds a sense of serenity from moving at a slower pace.
What is Tai Chi for Health?
At Connect we teach a specific approach developed by Dr. Paul Lam of the Tai Chi for Health Institute. Dr. Lam is a physician who is also a master in Tai Chi. He has created specific series of movements to assist in creating maximum benefit for health. The Tai Chi Institute for Health programs are created to incorporate the principles of:
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Slow, smooth, continuous motion
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Controlled weight transfer
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Awareness of the internal components of focus, relaxation, breathing and nimble movement.
The Institute Program of Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention, which we teach has been endorsed by the CDC because of its strong evidence of fall prevention.


Diane
Shiffer
Diane Shiffer, PT has a broad background in orthopedic physical therapy and the use of awareness training to assist in pain management. Early in her career, she was part of an innovative pain management team that highlighted the powerful connection between mind and body. Diane has extensive biofeedback training and achieved certification through BCIA. Helping patients to create their own unique strategies to maximize their quality of life is her passion.
Learn more about Diane >
Benefits of Tai Chi:
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Increased strength and flexibility
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Reduced pain and stiffness
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Improved balance and coordination
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Better posture
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Reduced stress and increased relaxation
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Adoption of fall prevention techniques
Is Tai Chi right for me?
You bet! You do not need to have experience in this movement form to learn this approach. It is safe and can be adapted to meet individual needs. You do not need to be able to get up and down from the floor to participate. Tai Chi is fun and different and really does bring out things about the way we move that are different from most any other form of exercise.
Connect offers a 6 session class designed to teach you the key movements and sharpen your internal focus while intentionally moving safely.
To register for a class call Connect at 503-974-9078.
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Sign up is easy by paying with your credit card over the phone.
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If you have questions, give us a call or email info@connectoregon.com.
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Currently, classes are virtual via Zoom.
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Students need to complete a waiver prior to the first class.