Senior Tai Chi Can Heal the Body and Calm the Mind

By Daniel Piereth, Fitness and Wellness Coordinator, Applewood Estates

Spring has finally sprung and it’s a perfect time to try out some of our new class offerings here at Applewood.

I’m always on the look-out for fun and meaningful activities that engage residents both physically and mentally, regardless of their fitness level.

Regular exercise is crucial to keeping joints, muscles and ligaments well-oiled and in peak condition to help you fully engage in whatever the day may bring.

On April 14, John Mercurio from Advanced Wellness Consultants introduced residents to the healing powers and energies of Tai Chi, a form of Qigong (chee-gung).

This gentle movement program stimulates the body's parasympathetic nervous system to aid in healing the body. Anyone can benefit from this highly regarded ancient Chinese practice.

Performing a series of gentle movements calms the mind while it revitalizes the body. Seniors benefit by improving body awareness and increasing flexibility.

But the benefits don’t stop there--

Research has also shown that Tai Chi helps to reduce hypertension and minimize the incidence of accidental falls, always a concern for seniors.

Whether you’re a swimmer, walker or fitness center enthusiast, try to be consistent with your efforts and spice up your exercise routine with a new class (like tai chi!) to make sure you are working out your whole body.

Coming Up

Applewood Fitness & Wellness Center

May 12 - 11 a.m.

NEW! GUIDED MEDITATION

Meditation can lessen stress by helping to balance our emotions and manage the physical and psychological challenges we all face. Advanced Wellness will return to lead a complimentary sample class focusing on tranquility-inducing exercises and movements that can be practiced in a group setting or in the privacy of your own home.

STARTING SOON! WALK THE WALK

I am excited to launch our outdoor walking program here on the beautiful Applewood campus. On hot, humid or rainy days, we will move the class indoors. This program is for any resident at any fitness or experience level.

Walking is good for the body, mind and soul. Put on your sneakers, bring a friend and let’s get going!

Residents are invited to stop by the Fitness Center to check out our full roster of aquatic and fitness classes.

About Applewood

We are a leading continuing care retirement community (CCRC) located in Freehold Township, Monmouth County, NJ, providing comfortable, beautifully-designed, maintenance-free homes and apartments. But that's only the beginning--Applewood's exclusive "Engaged Living" program delivers the plethora of mind, body and spiritual activities that today's active and spirited seniors are seeking. To find out more or schedule a tour, call (732) 303-7416.