GuestBook

David Bellaby

Mar 02 2010 5:21 PM

Message sent from an ashram newsletter- appropriate to our practice?
"Life is a paradox. The foot that is grounded represents certainty and a sense of knowing. The raised one represents uncertainty and openness. We have to keep this balance to keep dancing, to stay fully alive"

Thanks David. Yes the truth is Universal regardless of its source. Lovely explanation you give and note the likeness to the movement "Crane Steps in Shallow Water" Balance is both static and dynamic, the latter I rather describe as Harmony, but whether Ha-Tha (Yoga) or Yin Yang (T'ai Chi) the experience is one of Unity and Flow. Life is truly a "Dance"

Jane Slee	Feb 11 2010 2:57 AM
Excellent presentation and demonstration. Makes attendance pleasure not a chore. Initially found difficulty in “slowing down” but very soon discovered that a great deal more effort was involved and the results are very satisfactory. Would recommend to anyone and particularly to those who say “ACTIVITY IS NOT FOR ME!:

Margaret Eadsforth	Jan 28 2010 6:06 PM
Thank you so much the tape is what I have been looking for. You are the only person who has managed to give me the technique to really meditate. Regards It is a pleasure Margaret. Now practice every day to get a lifetime benefit

Eileen Raynor

Jan 28 2010 6:04 PM

I have thoroughly enjoyed my T’ai Chi classes and I’m amazed how quickly the hour passes. I have found I have become much more aware of my body and of my breathing. I have become more supple and find chores like weeding much easier. I am sure my stamina has improved as well. At the end of a class I expect to feel tired but I’m usually invigorated and on top of the world. I don’t yet understand how it all works but I’m sure my feeling of well being has improved greatly since I started T’ai Chi.

The beauty of T'ai chi practice is that it helps us with so many praactical day to day activities and I am glad you have realised this.

Pat Jacques	Jan 21 2010 3:00 AM
Hello Michael, I wanted to say what a good surprise it was to see you at the class on Wednesay and smiling!!!!!!!!!!! I really enjoyed the Tai Chi, as I always do. Quite honestly, I don't know how I would cope without it - not any old TC would do though; it has to be your special brand and you!!! Kind regards, Pat Jacques

DAVID STEVENSON

Dec 11 2009 6:45 PM

Dear Michael
Can it be possible to quantify the benefit which people derive from your excellent T’ai Chi classes? I can’t claim to offer a comprehensive answer, but perhaps you will be interested to know of some measurable progress which I have been fortunate to make since coming to you initially under the GP Referral Scheme.

Because of a lung disease (bronchiectasis) I have been treated continuously with oral steroids for the past thirteen years. Consequently I am considered to be at risk of osteoporosis, and since 1999 regular born density scans have been taken by the LRI Densitometry Unit at intervals of around 18 months.

Since the initial scan, some deterioration would be expected due to the ageing process as well as steroid absorption, but remarkably bone density has actually increased – in absolute terms and no just in relation to age expectancy. “Whatever you are doing, just keep on doing it!” they tell me. Copy latest scans enclosed for information.

The mainstream medical approach to osteoporosis seems to be through diet, medication and exercise (the latter rather dull and requiring a dining chair). My diet is reasonable but not beyond criticism, I have never have taken calcium supplements or other medication, and exercise is generally limited to some reluctant lawn-mowing. Other lifestyle factors could be involved of course (increasing red wine intake must be entirely coincidental!) but T’ai Chi seems to deserve most of the credit.

Even here my record is not beyond reproach. Unavoidably I mss a few classes, and the 10-minute practice routing I have evolved only gets done a few times per week. What could be achieved with a more assiduous effort?

I wonder if other members of your classes have medical records which could have bearing on the valuable effects of T’ai Chi? – to say nothing of course of the mental and spiritual dimensions. With grateful thanks and all good wishes.

Dear David
You are an example to the rest when it comes to patience and perseverence in achieving your goals. I am so pleased you get a healthy reward for your efforts. Keep it up.
Michael

IAN BATEMAN

Dec 11 2009 6:36 PM

Dear Michael
In December 2004 I was introduced to T’ai Chi through Arthritis Care Burton on Trent branch. Michael Cashmore was the instructor for the class at Stretton Methodist church Hall.
Before participating in T’ai Chi I used to have 5 to 6 chrst infections in the Winter season and suffered with arthritis in most joints. I also have fibromyalgia and chronic asthma.
Since training regularly in t’ai chi at the weekly classes and at home, my overal health has improved and Ihad no chest infections this past Winter. In June 2005 I went for an annual medical check up and the improvement was significant and the result of a Peak Flow test showed was much improved also. The medical staff were very pleased and I believe the results were down to t’ai chi practice.
What is also very important to me is that I enjoy t’ai chi and would certaily recommend it to anyone with a similar condition to myself or otheres wishing to improve their general health and well being, both physically and mentally.

Arthritis Care in Burton has became such an important part of my life over the last 5 years and I have enjoyed teaching so much. I am glad I can make such a worthwhile contribution. Thank you.
Michael

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