Resident, Dellie James

Categories:

Dear Friends,

Let me tell you about life at Friends House Retirement Community, where I moved three years ago. I’m sure everyone knows about all the wonderful advantages of living at Friends House, but I am most excited about the Qi Gong class that I helped to start shortly after my arrival. First, I joined a volunteer group called Active Aging that was trying to educate people on healthy pursuits for longevity. One of the suggestions was to have a Tai Chi class. But, I argued that Qi Gong was a much easier and less stressful way to achieve the same results. Qi Gong is a gentle exercise program combining movement and mindfulness to help improve health, without the rigid structure of Tai Chi’s choreographed movements. Qi Gong is a more flowing movement, done slowly and reflectively. I love it.

When asked to teach the class, I said I would look for a teacher as I was not trained to be a Qi Gong instructor. I researched and came up with a wonderful teacher who has several DVDs available on specific topics: longevity, better balance, strong bones, healthy joints, upper back and neck, and even a seated workout. Benefits include: better sleep, lowering of stress and anxiety, increased focus, and better balance and flexibility. We were able to book regular classes in our main meeting room, The Miller Center. Because we don’t have to pay a teacher, the class is free. Over the last few years, class size has increased from 3-4 people to about 15 for some sessions. Classes are held three times a week, with most people doing at least two per week. Word got out about how easy and rewarding Qi Gong is!

Residents from all the neighborhoods of independent living love to gather and stretch, renewing our neighborly connections as Qi Gong enriches our lives.

Join us!

Dellie James, Homes on Quaker Lane

Tags:

Pin It on Pinterest

Skip to content