Barbara, Jane and Rosemary are now qualified to lead sessions in Shibashi Qigong. This is a system of physical exercises and breathing techniques, and is allied to the ancient Chinese martial art tai chi.
The trio took part in a workshop and online assessment before being awarded prestigious certificates earlier this year for the ‘Tai Chi Qigong Instructor Training Course Level 1’.
They were trained by Sue Stuart, Ph.D., who set up the charity Memory Partners with some of her tai chi students with the aim of supporting people living with dementia, their friends and family members. Based in academic research, the charity reaches out to others with long-term illnesses. The tai chi cafe in Totteridge has just celebrated its third birthday and welcomes allcomers.
She visits South Bucks Hospice to show patients how Shibashi can enhance their lives.
Barbara said: “The tai chi was very beneficial for my health and has made a difference in my life. My well-being was very low and this has helped give me more energy.
“I do feel quite proud of this qualification, having achieved a certificate, doing something for myself.”
Rosemary said: “Shibashi is excellent, it is very relaxing while gently exercising all parts of the body. People of all ages can do it, standing or sitting. It has known health benefits. I am involved with Sue’s tai chi cafe where I have seen its beneficial effect, which is rewarding.”
Jane said: “We are now qualified to lead groups and in theory to set up classes of our own. Shibashi is a form of tai chi aimed at improving health and wellbeing regardless of an individual's level of fitness or mobility. It also has the added benefit of being very relaxing."
Sue said: “I am proud to have been able to convince Rosemary, Jane and Barbara that they too can make a difference by training as instructor.” She added that Memory Partners will pay for insurance cover for any Shibashi work the three do at the hospice.
Meanwhile, all three of the new instructors were full of praise for the support they have been given generally by the hospice based in High Wycombe.
Barbara said: “The hospice brought me back to being me because when I came here my fatigue level was so low and I was really drained out. It helped me to come to terms with the cancer. The hospice gave me a fresh start and I feel different and refreshed.”
Rosemary said: “I have found the classes and courses very helpful and the staff very supportive. When you are at the hospice, you can just be yourself. If anyone experiences a life-changing condition, it is a good place to be. I have made good friends there.”
Jane described South Bucks Hospice as a ‘lifeline’ and said: “It gives you an opportunity to talk freely because the people you meet, both staff and patients, understand the challenges we face both physically and mentally. There’s a sense that it’s okay to be open and honest about how you are feeling and coping.”
New tai chi instructors
