Seniors: Ki for Every Day Living
Ki for Every Day Living is designed for seniors, but people of all ages and ability are welcome to participate. The exercises and teaching methods are developed from Yuishinkai Aikido and Ki training methods. They have been tailored to the needs of seniors. With a little training, all of the exercises and techniques can be practiced at home. The basic principles can be applied to every day living increasing mental and physical wellness.
Stretching
Simple, light stretches begin each class. These are basic movements that each
participant can do according to their own ability. We have comfortable padded
floor mats to sit on for these exercises. Stretching encourages blood
flow to the internal organs and muscles, and also helps to improve the range
of motion of all parts of the body. A flexible body is essential to good
health.
Ki Breathing
Using Kokyu (Breath Power), participants learn to unify the mind and body.
Through simple meditation and deep breathing techniques, participants learn
to clear the mind and relax the body. Ki breathing infuses the body with
fresh oxygen, sending oxygen rich blood to all parts of the body. This
is essential for good health and healing, and can easily be practiced at
home.
Posture & Balance
Everyday movements and positions are used to teach principles of balance and
posture. Learn how to use the tanden, core or center of gravity,
to stabilize the body. A light push is used to test the stability of participants.
This "Ki test" provides feedback, revealing the individual’s
physical and mental calmness, and balance. Each test helps students learn
relaxation techniques that can be called upon in daily life.
Calmness & Relaxation
A calm mind and relaxed body work together more efficiently. These techniques
help participants feel the power and effectiveness of using mind and body
together.
Benefits of physical exercise.
- Physical activity improves strength and stamina.
- Physical activity helps maintain the ability to live independently and reduces the risk of falling and fracturing bones.
- Physical activity can reduce the risk of dying from coronary heart disease and of developing high blood pressure, cancer, and diabetes.
- Physical activity helps control joint swelling and pain associated with arthritis.
- Studies on meditation show improvement in the overall health and well being.
- Daily meditation produces a significant reduction in anxiety, stress and anger.
- General pain, age-related pain, and migraine headaches can be minimized with meditation and breathing exercises