Hello Helen:
Here is a copy of a posting I made in 1997 . . .
>>> DeitzM <[log in to unmask]> 04/01/98 06:05pm >>>
Dear List friends,
There will be a support leaders retreat here in Portland OR for
our 25 Will Cope chapters. Does anyone have any
information the the benefits of Tai Chi in persons with
Parkinson's disease? If you could email the info to me I
would appreciate it very much.<<<
From: Stephan Schwartz
To: SMTP("[log in to unmask]")
Date: 10/28/97 12:12pm
Subject: Martial arts and PD. -Reply
>>> David Moreland <[log in to unmask]> 10/27/97
>>>Has anyone on this list used any martial arts techniques
to provide at least little snippets of relief for PD
symptoms?<<<
Hello David:
Tai Chi is an ancient Taoist style of self defense
attributed to Chang San-feng a 14th century priest. Modern
Tai Chi emphasizes grace as a control over impulse.
Tai Chi taught today derives from a foundation of martial
arts. The exercises reinforce balance, flexibility and
patience. No special equipment or partner is required.
Through a series of exercises, "postures," one performs
continous, smooth, gentle movements with muscles relaxed.
Tai Chi is said to strengthen the motor skills that are
impacted by PD.
Over the past four years I have practiced Tai Chi. Doctors
and patients have observed that PD symptoms abate during
sleep, also with stress reduction and even through
concentrated efforts of personal willpower. Tai Chi gives me
the mechanisms to relax as if in a dream state, no stress
and therefore, no tremor.
Concentration is required to practice Tai Chi postures.
This same concentration helps me build my will power as if
meditating. Tai Chi, for me, is meditation with motion.
My teacher gives Tai Chi classes at the local geriatric
home. Staff there report a reduction in falls among the
patients since taking the class, along with an improved
mental attitude. Patients report feeling better and more
individual will power to deal with their aches and pains.
A videotape was available from the Tai Chi Society of
Canada, 1376 Bathurst Street, Toronto, Ontario M5R 3J1. I
do not know if they still sell it.
Good luck.
Stephan 53/7
