Oriental wisdom teaches us that by learning how to cultivate energy and attune to our inner natural rhythm – through Movement, Meditation and self-Massage – we may prevent illness, increase vitality, improve health, and prolong life

Michael Cashmore, a graduate in Physical Education and Sports Science from Loughborough University, has over 27 years experience in the health fitness industry of which almost 20 years have been increasingly focused on the role of Chinese and other traditional approaches to improving total well being. In addition Michael has developed and taught programmes extensively in the field of Stress Management and Workplace Wellness, being recognised by the American Journal of Health Promotion.

The body was designed to move easily and flow harmoniously under the intelligent control of the mind. This is in direct contrast to many aspects of modern day living with its propensity towards dis-EASE, chaotic behaviour and ego-mind states. The philosophy of T’ai Chi teaches the importance of Yin and Yang in learning how to mange our lives in a holistic mindful way.

Holism equates with Taoism in Chinese culture and is aptly defined in this ancient quote:
The Tao of nurturing life requires that one keep oneself as fluid and flexible as possible. One should not stay still for too long, nor should one exhaust oneself by trying to perform impossible tasks. One should learn how to exercise from nature by observing the fact that flowing water never stagnates and a busy door with active hinges never rusts or rots. Why? Because they exercise themselves perpetually, and are almost always moving (Sun Su-mo)

In order to improve health and prevent sickness our body and mind needs to be in harmony with the rhythms of nature and apply this daily. Positive feedback has been received with improvements in symptoms associated with, ME, chronic Fatigue, Arthritis, Back Pain, Heart and Circulatory Problems, Hormone and Metabolic disorders, and a variety of mental health conditions. The list is endless!

Movements in t’ai chi have many practical applications to daily life, improving posture and mobility and are suitable for all ages, physical abilities and a wide variety of health conditions. Movements focus on economy of effort, revitalising and conserving energy, relaxation in action.
Visit www.livingessence.org.uk and www.movement4life.co.uk for more information and schedule of classes.