Tai chi could aid those with Parkinson's?

Fri Apr 20, 2007 9:58 am Post subject: News: Canada - Tai chi could aid those with Parkinson's

Dear Friends, the following, from Canada, may be of interest. Best, Kathrynne ========================================================

Tai chi could aid those with Parkinson's / expositor staff Local News - Wednesday, April 18, 2007 Updated @ 8:32:47 AM

The benefits of tai chi for those with Parkinson's disease are being demonstrated at a local open house on Sunday. Co-sponsored by the Brantford Taoist Tai Chi Society and the local Parkinson's Society, the event will be held at 67 Charing Cross St. from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The two groups hope to help people understand how tai chi - an exercise developed from an ancient Chinese tradition - is useful in reducing the impact of Parkinson's.

The progressive disease is marked by tremours and stiff muscles, sometimes leading to falls.

Those with the disease have trouble with certain movements and it affects most aspects of their daily lives from walking and standing to writing or keeping an upright balance. When those with Parkinson's learn the physical movements of tai chi it improves their balance, flexibility, strength and endurance, according to research.

The stretching involved is beneficial for the body's tissues, allowing more natural movement and reducing the fear of falling.

Best regards, Kathrynne Holden,