Coronado Seniors Practice Tai Chi for Optimal Health

Coronado residents John and Catherine Stihl, both in their 70s, were searching for a gentle yet challenging exercise they could do together. He is a retired Air Force pilot with old injuries and posture problems, and she recently underwent knee replacement surgery.

They found their ideal practice in Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese martial art proven to enhance balance and reduce stress, among other health benefits. The exercise is so effective for seniors that it was recently recommended by The American Geriatrics Society as a ideal exercise for improving balance and reducing fall risk.

“Tai Chi incorporates a meditative aspect and the movements are slow, deliberate and constant, not abrupt or jarring like some activities, making it very easy on the joints,” said Miles Thomas, Tai Chi instructor and acupuncturist at Sharp Coronado Hospital.   

John Stihl said the practice has been a gold mine of health benefits for him and his wife.

“Nothing compares to this,” he said. “Tai Chi has improved my posture, balance, breathing and focus. I wish I had discovered it 70 years ago.”

Catherine Stihl said she feels calm and centered after one of her sessions with Thomas.

“I feel good and relaxed after doing Tai Chi,” she said. “There is a real difference in my state of mind before and after one of these classes.”

For More Information
To register or for more information about Tai Chi and other classes offered at Sharp Coronado, call The Motion Center at 619-522-3798.