Physical Activity & Nutrition
Tai Chi for Diabetes
Who can benefit from Tai Chi for Diabetes?
· People with Diabetes – to improve pain and quality of life
· People with higher risk of developing Diabetes
· Any beginner – excellent introduction to Tai Chi
How does it work for Diabetes?
“Exercise helps people with Diabetes by improving the control of blood glucose levels, as well
as minimizing the complications of Diabetes. Gentle exercises and diet have been shown by
many scientific studies to prevent Diabetes. Tai Chi is a gentle exercise with strong emphasis
on mental relaxation, it is reasonable to assume Tai Chi can help to prevent Diabetes, improve
cellular uptakes and glucose metabolism. There are two other attributes of Tai Chi that are
especially helpful to people with Diabetes. Stress is shown to make the control of Diabetes
worse and relaxation is especially beneficial. It is well established that Tai Chi reduces stress
and improves relaxation. Most people have problem adhering to an exercise program. People who
have started learning Tai Chi tend to continue doing it for years. The major problems of Diabetes
are complications such as hypertension, heart disease, visual impairment and vascular problems.
Studies have shown Tai Chi improves cardio-respiratory function, hypertension, muscular strength,
flexibility and cholesterol level, these in turn minimize complication of Diabetes. Diabetes causes
peripheral neurophathy, a condition that the nerves of feet are damaged thus affects balance and
walking. Tai Chi has been proven to be effective in improving balance and mobility”
– Dr Paul Lam’s website for Tai Chi
When are the classes?
Wednesdays from 11.00am – 12.00 Noon at our Kangaroo Flat Site, 13 Helm Street, Kangaroo Flat
During our 45 minute program you will do Tai Chi for Diabetes and relaxation and then have a cuppa and a chat to round out an hour of exercise, relaxation and fun.
“Tai Chi for Diabetes is designed to prevent and improve Diabetes. It is different but complimentary to the program Tai Chi for Arthritis” – Dr Paul Lam