No way, not my Mother!!

No way, not my Mother!!

My Mother had five kids.  As I was growing up, the only form of exercise that she knew was keeping up with us.

If there was any structured form of exercise that she started on her own, she would lose interest in it a couple of days later.  My Mother was also a chain smoker since college and didn't really watch her diet.  Dad passed away very suddenly from a brain tumor when my Mother was just 45 with five young kids.  Looking back now, I believe she was probably suffering from depression.  She spent a lot of time sleeping and watching TV.  

After a couple of serious falls, we had to put my Mother in a Nursing Home.  One of the activities offered in this new Nursing Home was Tai Chi for Seniors.  I'm not sure what motivated her to attend a Tai Chi class for Seniors, but I was very surprised to hear the good news. 

Tai Chi is the perfect exercise for Seniors.  The list of benefits for Senior is long; improved blood circulation, increased brain capacity, helps with arthritis, improves balance, and encourage the  overall sense of well-being.   All this without is done without high impact or a lot of strenuous activity. 

My Mother at 84 now brags about her muscle strength.  Prior to Tai Chi, she couldn't pick up a friend's daughter.  Now, thanks to her commitment to her Tai Chi, she has the capability of picking her up. 

I have also seen an improvement in her attitude when I call her.  She appears more postive and happy about life. 

Who knew growing up that my Mother would be into the Martial Arts as a Senior?  Look out Jackie Chan!