Walking well with Campbell Education
Tai chi walking and exercise is good for you. Many of us have seen people doing Tai chi and other organized exercises in the park. It is a nice way to engage in activity, to get outside and enjoy the air, and meet new people. We all need to move more, and use our energy well. As part of her commitment to the community, Helen is offering informal training in Tai chi walking and chi gong exercises (working with energy) in the park in Northampton. Check here for details of up and coming meetings.
This is a community activity, and anyone can take part. You won’t need to have a lot of special equipment, although if you have a walking stick, you might want to bring it with you. People who are new, and who walk with an aid, can learn the basics using a stick or frame, and sticks are provided for some upper body exercises. All you need is a comfortable pair of flat shoes, clothing you can move in, and a positive attitude.
Aims of the sessions
The aim of these informal park sessions is to help people who are new to Tai chi and energy work to learn the very basics of movement and exercise. The sessions will not deliver any formal system of tai chi, which is a martial art with several variations. Rather, they will help novice learners to develop the secure and flexible walking habits that underpin all martial arts. More experienced people are welcome, but please be aware that novices come first.
Helen will introduce tai chi walking and chi gong exercises, meaning to work with life force energy, which aim to strengthen and energise the body. Working with energy is very much part of her psychological training practice, and she will introduce very simple emotional intelligence skills where needed. Training will be consistent with the Two-dimensional Model of Emotions that underpins all her teaching practice. The objectives are a comfortable and healthy body and a calm and quiet mind. There is no need to register or book, just turn up and try it. There is no charge, but donations are always welcome.
Is this suitable for me?
These tai chi walking and exercise sessions are simple drop-in events that any one can try. You don’t need to be extremely fit, and there is strictly no competition in sessions. It is all about stability and being able to move, not about being the best. Everyone is encouraged to try, to take responsibility for their choices, and to take a rest or stop if they need to.
Most people who are well enough to get to the park will be well enough to try the exercises. To do the full range of exercises you need to be able to stand and move. Even people who are stationary or unable to stand are welcome to join in the breathing and upper body exercises, so you never know until you try! Anyone can give it a try, and simply stop if it is a strain or if you feel tired. You will be responsible for your own safety, so listen to your body and stop if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms at all.
Coming events
Dallington Park, NN5 7AA. November 5th and 19th 10am
Park in the car park and take the walk furthest away from the main road, past the play park on the left. Look out for the rainbow umbrella under the trees. Please wear clothing suitable for the weather. There are no loos, so think ahead.
Terms and conditions
Please note that participation is strictly at the participant’s own risk. This voluntary community event is not designed to offer support services, or therapeutic interventions, for any user. While every effort will be made to fulfil scheduled sessions, and inform of unexpected cancellations, there is no guarantee that events will go ahead as scheduled if unavoidable situations arise. The organizer reserves the right to refuse participation in the event of anti-social behaviour. For safety reasons dogs are not encouraged, but if present, they must be kept on a lead at all times. Helen Campbell and Campbell Education accept no responsibility for any loss or damage to property that occurs while taking part in an event.
For more information please contact Campbell Education. Find out more about Campbell Education services here. Find Helen at LinkedIn.
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