Page 10 - PeaceHealth-OregonRegion

Wellness

Take a long, slow, deep breath. How do you feel? Are you able to relax a bit?

In our high-tech, fast-paced world, it can seem almost impossible to fnd time to unwind and de-stress. One of the best fxes for modern-day stress is a time-tested exercise that can help busy people slow down and relax: tai chi. Tai chi is a Chinese martial art that many people practice for health-related reasons. It is characterized by slow movements, called forms, and is often done in a group setting. Suman Barkhas, certifed yoga therapist and tai chi and qigong instructor, has been teaching students for 20 years at a variety of venues, including Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend. “In my classes, I see people young and old, with a wide range of experience levels, from beginners to more advanced students,” Barkhas says. “Some of my students are heart patients at the hospital who beneft from incorporating stress-reducing tai chi into their cardiac rehabilitation program at the Oregon Heart & Vascular Institute.”

Signifcant health benefts

Anyone can beneft from practicing tai chi, whether you are looking for a way to relax your body and mind or trying to improve your balance and coordination, a skill especially benefcial for older adults to decrease their risk of an accidental fall.

Tai chi is known around the world as a proven and effective balance conditioner, and it is also believed to boost the immune system; slow the aging process; lower blood pressure; and reduce the incidence of anxiety, depression and overall mood disturbance. Yoga is another ancient practice that continues to offer health benefts to people today. Yoga uses more stationary poses and controlled breathing to improve strength and fexibility.

Searching for renewal and wellness?

Try tai

chi!

If you’re looking for relaxation of the body and mind, whether you are 22 or 72, consider one or both of these time-honored practices. If nothing else, they will help you remember to slow down, take a deep breath and relax. Barkhas is currently teaching classes at the Oregon Heart & Vascular Institute at RiverBend.

For more information or to inquire about a class, visit www.peacehealth.org/ ohvi or call 541-222-7216.

This coupon is good for one FREE one-hour tai chi class at Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend. Expires 12/31/11. Call 541-222-7216 for more information.

10 Health Connection