Members

Woodlands

Tai Chi

MEMBERS

The Woodlands Tai Chi Players

Lessley C- 8/21/17 - While traveling through China a few years ago I became fascinated watching people of all ages practicing Tai Chi in public parks and squares. I loved the beautiful slow and fluid motion of each movement, and the look of serenity on the faces of the participants. I didn’t give it much further thought until seeing Sesco at the ALL open house almost two years ago. After speaking with him I decided to sign up for the class and it was a great decision. Because of degenerative disc and joint disease and fibromyalgia I hadn’t been able to do any strenuous exercise for many years. Tai Chi is just what I needed. I am a lot stronger and more flexible, and my balance has improved considerably. I sleep better and am more relaxed. I have enjoyed the challenge of learning all the forms, and meeting so many new friends who have all been very encouraging and helpful.

Nancy R - 7/10/18 - I knew very little about Tai Chi until I talked to my friend Henry Pomorski. He had lots of things to say about it like it is good for your balance and he had lost weight doing Tai Chi too. I found all he said to be true but I guess what I love about Tai Chi is that I believe it is helping my memory. Being 75 years old my memory and balance are not as good as they once were. Although at first, I didn’t like that no one was standing in front of us doing the moves with us. I understand why this is good for your memory now because you have to learn and remember these moves after they are demonstrated several times. I also love the beauty and grace of Tai Chi. Two other great things about Tai Chi are that this helps your breathing and this should help you relax and also be good for you mentally and physically. The last but not least thing I love about Tai Chi is all the wonderful friends you make. Sesco, you are a wonderful instructor. Thanks also Kathy and Mike and the others who spend lots of their time helping us learn Tai Chi.

Claire L - 11/7/18 - I must admit that continuing with Tai Chi was a challenge for me I often reread the words at the beginning of the instructions that it was a journey a sometimes arduous one. Many a time I felt totally defeated but was too stubborn to give up. I looked around at all the other people and said if they can do it there is absolutely no reason why I cannot. It is much more of a commitment than I originally expected but the progress is worth the effort. It has taught be to be mindfull of my every move to learn to focus and relax and just go with the flow. I still have many miles to go on my journey but I can also look back to how far I have come. Along the way I have met some wonderful traveling companions who are patient and encouraging.I hope to continue my journey realizing there will be detours along the way but the road will always be waiting for my return.

Lavonne C - 8/9/18 - While searching for something meaningful to do with my time after retirement, I joined WTCPG at Lone Star College. I quickly discovered that it was just what I needed as it offered a real challenge in the form of gentle exercise and serious mental concentration, not to mention social activity with like-minded people, Tai Chi is unique in that it is a personal experience whether doing alone or performing with a group. Plus, you have made it fun while teaching this valuable art form. Thank you for your dedication.

Laurie A - 9/1/15Tai Chi sounded interesting to me, since I felt like learning something new. The first evening I attended I was hooked. Tai Chi was more then just movements and a low impact exercise , I found it mentally stimulating and challenging as well. The hour flew by. I was never bored ( as I often get through other forms of exercise). As I continued, I noted small changes. I found myself able to balance and flex better, my mind seemed be sharper. Best of all, there is a wonderful comradery within the group. They are a friendly, encouraging and supportive. I have been attending regularly for 4 years now. Sesco has been an excellent, dedicated instructor.-

John W - 9/1/18 - Off and on over thirty years I've had the opportunity to practice the Yang style of tai chi under three instructors when working in Washington, London and now Houston. Unfortunately I've not been a consistent practitioner due to work and travel. The tai chi martial art interests me because of its benefits to maintain/improve mobility, reduce stress, improve breathing & circulation, in addition to the fun of being with a group of like minded people. When in the 'tai chi moment' I sometimes have a feeling similar to what I experienced while scuba diving, a relaxed weightlessness, moving with the ocean currents. Where tai chi has benefited me include the physical, mental and social areas of my life.

Julie D - 10/28/14 - I started the Tai Chi class several years ago when I saw an advertisement at the Community Center. I had learned Chinese exercises and then a simple Tai Chi routine from an elderly Chinese woman (who moved like a 20 year old) a few years earlier and I wanted to do more. I was given a warm welcome in the class and soon made friends with others. I liked that everyone helped each other and any new members were given lots of encouragement and help. At first it was difficult but with practice it became easier and had a very calming effect. I love the way you move slowly and flow from one pose to another in synch with everyone. You can also chill your busy mind as you concentrate on the movements. It's good for improving your strength and balance too. I recommend it to as many people as I can and hope to be still doing it in my nineties.

Lynn L -4/7/19 - I have been a caregiver for my daughter for the last 10 years. I put on weight after many years of extra sitting, and noticed more aches, pains, and stiffness of the body. Plus, all the stress that comes with medical issues has taken a toll on me. I saw something about Tai Chi online. I looked it up, found this group, and signed up. I have enjoyed it from the first class. Although I have only been doing Tai Chi for a few months, I have already noticed a difference. I’m looking forward to learning more and working on the technique and breathing of the forms I have learned. All while helping my memory, balance, range of motion and relaxing. This is just what I needed for my Mind, Body and Spirit. I can use all of the Chi I can get

Mary O - 11/5/18- When I was introduced to Tai Chi last fall, I knew little about it. A class was offered in the community where I live so I decided to see what it was all about. After watching a demonstration, I had great concerns about whether I could physically meet the challenges but the beauty and grace of the movements and the peacefulness of Tai Chi greatly appealed to me. Tai Chi has helped me to improve my balance, flexibility, and strength and is an exercise that I can look forward to doing for many years to come. Additionally, I greatly appreciate the patience and encouragement of the wonderful instructors and enjoy the new friends I have made.

Don H - 1/15/18- Since enrolling in Tai Chi at Lone Star College about 18 months ago, I have continued the practice after a 12 week course. I'm active in the practice of Tai Chi. The 12 week class started with warm ups, and an introduction of the 8 step Tai Chi form, this is different from most exercises I have tried.
Before practicing Tai Chi, I never thought about relaxation, slow movement and learning the flow or executing the forms, this is very new and somewhat frustrating. To overcome the difficulties of learning Tai Chi the instructors will give corrections and are ready to answer questions that will help with the forms and practice. In order to improve, practice is essential, and there is a place, space and a group to practice with. Since joining the Woodlands Tai Chi Practice Group I'm learning body alignment, balance, breathing, and a sense of well being.

Sara F -2/5/17- After being diagnosed and treated for breast cancer, I was searching for a “just right” exercise. I had already been participating in Zumba, but needed something that was easier on my joints. I attempted Yoga, but it just wasn’t for me; in fact, I slightly injured my back attempting one of the poses. I was fortunate to attend one of the evening Tai Chi classes. I immediately understood the health benefits. The medication I currently take for my BC causes some joint pain. The gentle movements of Tai Chi help to alleviate that pain, as does the attention to breathing. The medication also causes some mental ‘fog’. The learning of new poses, in my opinion, helps to address that as well. An added bonus is the camaraderie of the attendees. I have enjoyed meeting the various folks that participate in Tai Chi as well as being a part of events such as World Tai Chi Day. In short, I appreciate the health benefits that Tai Chi clearly provides its participants.

Genette W - 1/22/18 - Tai Chi, this very ancient form of exercise provides me an holistic approach to good health because of its gentle flowing movements, breathing patterns, body posture and mindfulness, slowing aging. It has improved my flexibility, balance, strength and decreased my stress level. Being low impact it minimizes the stress on my aging joints and muscles. It is never boring because I always have something new to learn and practice. Sesco’s classes are fabulous because of his leadership, all his great assistants and wonderful classmates. However, I enjoy practicing solo too.

Susanna G 1/15/19 - I was first attracted to Tai Chi because it's low impact, but had no idea what it would do not only for my body, but also my brain. They say dancing is good for exercising both the body and the brain, and l believe Tai Chi helps me in the same way. I love that I'm always learning new things, and refining the technique of the steps I know. I certainly never thought I'd be working up a sweat, but I do every week. It's improving my mind, my body, my balance, and my soul. I don't enjoy exercise, but I love Tai Chi!

Jose M - 05/12/19 - Tai Chi is little by little becoming part of my daily activities. One thing that just came out to me was balance. I had good balance and somewhere along the line I lost it and Tai Chi is going to recuperate it for me. Tai Chi teaches/reinforces discipline and in my case since I am pretty well disciplined, it reiforces it. Tai Chi has helped me mantain the balance needed to officiate the sports, namely baseball and volleyball. The breathing exercises helps me cope dealing with the stress in officiating both sports. Tai Chi has improved my overall sense of alertness and well bring.

John A - 12/01/17- I was invited to World Taichi Day by a friend a few years ago. After watching the demonstrations, I decided to join the group. I was looking for physical activity not just an exercise regime. The forms force you to concentrate and while physical are low impact on the muscles, bones and joints. The fellowship with the Taichi group members is also a pleasant experience. The benefits have more than met my expectations.I was invited to World Taichi Day by a friend a few years ago. After watching the demonstrations, I decided to join the group. I was looking for physical activity not just an exercise regime. The forms force you to concentrate and while physical are low impact on the muscles, bones and joints. The fellowship with the Taichi group members is also a pleasant experience. The benefits have more than met my expectations.

Frank M 3/5/19 I have done various forms of karate on and off since 1993. It has always provided me with a sense of confidence, balance, strength and agility and I believe made me a better person. Tai Chi does the same for me in a low impact way now that I am 61 years old. Tai Chi involves exercise of both mind and body to remember and execute correctly the various forms which will serve me well as I age further. My 86 year old mother also does Tai Chi with me and I can see the improvement in her mind and balance.

Kathy B - 1/5/19 - I love everything about Tai Chi. It is easy to get started with Tai Chi and the exercise benefit is great. I have greater flexibility and balance since I started participating. Since Tai Chi is a low impact and low intensity activity, anyone can participate without worry of undue physical strain. Our lead instructor, Sesco, makes the class fun and organizes the practices so that everyone is able to keep up and proceed at their own pace. The assistant instructors are also so encouraging and supportive. And, the other members are very friendly and inviting. It is a good group of which to be a part.

Beth G 10/3/16 - Reflecting from the beginning of my participation with WTCPG till now, several things as to how tai chi has impacted me are evident: • Thankfully, I notice I really have made improvements, and • It is an ongoing learning experience. • Health benefits: less susceptible to colds and flu, overall improvement in muscle tone and more enjoyment while doing so, better blood pressure and well-being. However, it is a commitment that can be a struggle to keep, i.e., being on time and in learning routines. • The “Aha” moments (Like being on top of a mountain) provide the ultimate “chi” giving me the satisfaction of being apart of the whole class vs each individual, thus making us appear we are performing in one cohesive movement and in the process making new acquaintances and sharing our experiences. • The effort from those who have donated their time and effort to make this group happen: Sesco for spearheading this group, Interfaith for providing a class room, Mike and Kathy and all others who help with teaching, Alecia and others who help with other services to keep this group going. You all have my thanks and admiration

Paula W - 11/5/18 - Long, flowing clothes, old Chinese masters leading silent groups in slow and graceful moves in shady, dusty parks—this is what I visualized about tai chi and wanted for myself. Minus the dusty parks and flowing clothes, my tai chi experience has included much of what I imagined. The slowing down, the concentration, the emphasis on proper breathing, and so many beautiful moves you want to keep practicing until you get them: this is tai chi. And it will take practice. Over and over until your muscles remember and your brain does too. It’s good brain work. One more thing, something of a bonus, is that the “players”—the people practicing with me—are such a good group. So likeable. So variable. A little community. I’m delighted to be part of this group.

Peggy G - 3/1/19 - My sister mentioned that she started Tai Chi last year and really enjoyed it. She said it was fun and also improved her health. I decided to give it a try when I saw the Tai Chi class in the Lone Star College Lifelong learning Catalog. It didn’t disappoint me. Learning all the different steps and learning the breathing technique exercise the brain and the body. It also helps me to relax. On top of improving the mind and the body, I also enjoy meeting new people in the class. It is a fun group and I look forward to each and every session that we meet.

Katherine G 12/3/18 - My love for Tai Chi has had a profound influence on my life experiences. Not only has it aided in better balance and coordination, it creates peace and calm within and allows me to recapture the center of myself. I take refuge in each class as I enter with a bow of reverence and appreciate the flow and sweetness of every move. To walk into the room and feel the energy of the chi means I can leave the noisy chatter of the world behind for a short time. And, when this experience lingers with me for a while, I know that I can continue to return to renew the chi as I dance the dance of beautiful movements like 'repel the monkey', 'spread the horse's mane', 'lady at the bottom of the sea', and many more intriguing positions. Sharing the chi with others is also a great benefit to me. The members in each class show that energy and we feel it together in unison as we systematically remember the steps. When the chi is working in me I can feel it in others. We are able to connect and communicate with authentic feelings of peace and tranquility as we do the 8-step, Agnes, and Fan movements. Tai Chi will continue to be a wonderful experience for me and I look forward to continuing this worthwhile practice. It brings stability to a busy life.

Kong H - 8/21/17 - The Woodlands Tai Chi group provides me the opportunity to interact with a wonderful group of practitioners sharing a common interest in improving our health. Unlike the physical exercises I do on a regular basis, the slow, circular Tai Chi movements and deep breathing teaches me to focus on my internal energy, mental focus and clarity of thought in addition to maintaining my balance, flexibility and agility

Kenny M - 9/4/18 - After attending a World Tai Chi Day to satisfy my curiosity regarding Tai Chi, I registered for the beginner practice sessions. Within 3 months I had surgery and began radiation therapy. It was a roller coaster ride I found somewhat frightening and unbalancing. I soon found that Tai Chi was my safe place where several times a week I could escape the unpleasant realities that confronted me daily. I could escape into the routine, discipline, and meditation. It was a great source of comfort and relieve. After completion of treatment, I continue to benefit from Tai Chi. I've found a friendly welcoming place to practice skills that have improved my balance, coordination, and mental well being.

I started doing Tai Chi because I wanted to do a low impact exercise. I have realized that it is the most complete exercise, combining body, mind and spirit. Tai Chi has changed my lifestyle, improving my memory, flexibility, coordination, balance, and concentration. Tai Chi also relieved me from stress and anxiety, and the good thing is that I can practice it anywhere and anytime! Learning breathing in coordination with the movements is a big step forward in this amazing journey of body and mind improvement through Tai Chi practice.

Pam S 7/1/10 - I have been practicing Tai Chi off and on since the mid-1980's. Years ago, as a regular practitioner, I had the extreme thrill of experiencing the physical force of Chi energy. It was a rare, wonderful and spiritual experience for me. In my travels, I have joined practicing individuals or groups in several locales from China and Vietnam to San Francisco and the BVI and have been warmly welcomed by those with the truly compassionate Tai Chi spirit. Of late, I am an intermittent practitioner due to scheduling conflicts and Menieres. Tai Chi increases my balance, leg strength & flexibility plus I truly love the meditative, peaceful effect of Tai Chi breathing. I have made new friendships and highly recommend any/all of our classes. We are fortunate to have a great instructor, Sesco, who I most appreciatively thank for all the time and passion he gives to Tai Chi, his students and our classes.

John Gray - 4/15/14 - As I get older I want to remain active and alert. Tia Chi has improved my balance. It has taught me to slow down, relax and connect with the inner me. It keeps me limber so that I can reach and stretch in my everyday activities. It also provides a social environment to encourage me to achieve daily exercise. The breathing techniques have helped me with my sinus/respiratory issues. Most importantly Tia Chi has taught me to be focused to stay on task. Tia Chi has helped my overall mental and physical being

Ryan T - 1/5/19 -Tai Chi has helped me in many ways. One of these is working on expanding my lungs and focus on breathing. I am currently able to breathe easier and focus my breath to movement. I feel that my balance is better and so is my mental focus. The link between my mind and the movement of my body seems to be a bit more in tune as well. While I would like to work on more techniques such as 24 step and even 108 step to expand on energy work, I utilize 8 step every morning when I get up. This has helped me feel more centered and start my day off on the right foot. In a way, it feels like morning meditation without sitting down. I am able to focus my mind and energy better to help minimize addictions to things such as sugar. When I started Tai Chi I was eating a lot of sugary foods and drinks. Today, I am able to realize and redirect my focus away from these things. While I am unsure if this is a side effect of Tai Chi, I personally feel that it has helped greatly. Hopefully, these health benefits that I, personally, have experienced are what you were looking for.