After teaching 2 Tai Chi classes today and preparing for my third, I figured it might be a good time to share why I love to use Tai Chi in my therapy, and think it is good for anyone to practice. First of all, there is research behind it that shows it works; in fact that’s how I stumbled upon it in the first place. Being of the Western “scientific” mindset I was pretty skeptical at first, but there are a lot of studies that show that it significantly decreases the risk of falling, improves balance and strength as well as blood pressure, and has numerous other health benefits. That got me to go to my first class. Ralph Dehner, an Occupational Therapist in Cincinnati, introduced us to the concept of Tai Chi. He showed us some movements and how to integrate them into therapy. (On a personal note completing the activities also helped with joint pain in my neck, fingers, and feet.) Then I was hooked. I found Dr. Lam’s video through the Arthritis Foundation and began to learn his moves. This eventually led to me getting certified to teach Tai Chi for Arthritis. So what hooked me? Other than actually personally getting pain reducing results, the movements include so many things that we as therapists try to accomplish with our patients. Weight shift, stepping with heel strike, lift off with an open foot (no weight is on it ), and posture are all emphasized, and that is only how Tai Chi helps to work on walking. There are also the added benefits of isometric muscle holds that strengthen muscles while being gentle on joints, coordination between both upper and lower extremities, rotation and multitasking. I am all for getting the most out of every activity I do, and with Tai Chi I can address balance, gait (walking), coordination, and attention all at once. It is also easy to modify to a sitting level, or one arm support, and makes you move with purpose, which is great for anyone, but especially helpful to someone recovering from a stroke or with Parkinson’s Disease. Adding in the fact that it can be done with a group of people so you can include conversation, smiles and laughter, along with the breath support of the exercises, Tai Chi has become one of my favorite therapy tools.