What will I be learning?

This is a mixed workshop with learners working as a whole group for sometimes and splitting into smaller groupings to work at their own level.

Course Aim: To promote health, well-being, stress relief and inner balance & harmony through Tai Chi Qigong and relaxation techniques.

You will take part in a gentle exercise programme, learning how to do Qigong exercises and Tai Chi. Tai Chi & qigong originate from ancient China, nowadays they are practiced throughout the world as an effective exercise for health. All the exercises will consist of fluid, gentle movements that are relaxed and slow in tempo. The exercises are similar to walking in terms of physical exertion and can be done standing or sitting & many, if necessary, lying down too.

Tai Chi & Qigong have been shown to improve many aspects of health. They can help to:

• relieve pain and stiffness
• relieve stress
• support the immune system
• improve concentration
• improve balance
• improve posture
• improve heart and lung function
• enhance the flow of internal energies
• integrate body and mind (and spirit, if you wish)

The tai chi forms (sequences) you will learn are adaptations of traditional styles devised specifically to promote health and well being.

Relaxation:

• Explore a range of methods to explore body and mind relaxation
• Develop breathing techniques to aid relaxation
• Participate in guided relaxations

The classes will incorporate: calming &/or breathing exercises; warm up exercises to mobilise, stretch, warm & synchronise the whole body & mind; different single qigong moves for health well-being; a short break; tai chi form; and relaxations.

Does the course lead to a qualification?

No, it doesn’t lead to a qualification but you will have informal assessments to monitor your progress.

Who is the course for?

The class will be suitable for anyone who wishes to participate in a gentle exercise and relaxation programme, including:

• Beginners
• People suffering from ill-health (particularly arthritis, diabetes, back pain,
• depression and/or stress), after consultation with their doctor
• Older people - wheelchair users and those unsteady on their feet, for whatever reason (you can participate in the class sitting down if you wish)
• People with skills/knowledge & understanding of the class content who wish to work within a group of like minded learners & extend their practice.

Note: The class is open to any suitable person provided they are medically fit. If in any doubt please consult a medical practioner and show them this information

What do I need?

Wear:

• Loose comfortable clothing
• Flat footwear

Bring:

• a folder to store your course materials in
• a pen/pencil
• a drink (you will be unable to make a drink in the centre due to the Covid 19 Pandemic)

Optional:

• a blanket or top to keep you warm during the relaxation

Are there any additional costs?

There are no additional costs.

How will I know how I am progressing during the course?

• Your tutor will give you verbal feedback
• You will fill in a brief weekly progress sheet to reflect on your session. You tutor will give you written feedback via this too.

Your tutor will be available during the break for demonstrations, questions and personal or private discussion.

At DALS, we use an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) to set and review targets and provide feedback, enabling continual reflection and evaluation throughout the course. Learners will also receive verbal and/or written feedback on marked work. Learners will use their ILP to help track and monitor their own progress towards set goals, to support personal development and achievement.

There is no formal exam, although there is continual evaluation throughout the course.

Can I have help in the class?

At enrolment, it is important that you tell us if you have a learning difficulty or disability and require support. Learners declaring a support need will be referred for an assessment. If an enhanced support need is confirmed, a Support Package will be offered, to assist your progress in your learning and development, specific to your assessed needs.

How is this course supported by DerbyLearn?

DerbyLearn is a learning platform that supports and complements most classes. To find out more, please go to www.derbylearn.net and sign up, it's free and well worth a look!

Progression within DALS

We have lots of courses planned to ensure you have a variety of progression routes.  If you are interested in another course, please ask for more information or telephone our helpline on Derby (01332) 956565 or DALSenquiries@derby.gov.uk

On completion of this course, you could progress to:

• As this is a workshop type learners may return to continue their development in tai chi, qigong, relaxation & stress relief.
• Yoga or similar classes

Health and Wellbeing

The slogan you see on our brochures and leaflets is:   meet  enjoy  learn  achieve .

This is because we believe that taking part in adult and community learning can open the door to new friendships, give you something enjoyable and worthwhile to do with your time, enable you to learn something new and give you a sense of achievement.  That's got to make you feel good!

Volunteering opportunities

We have a number of rewarding volunteering opportunities both within DALS and with other organisations.  These can offer you a number of benefits, including the ability to enhance your employment prospects, and the ability to learn whilst supporting others.  If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering opportunities, please contact DALSenquiries@derby.gov.uk. You can also find information on volunteering opportunities on our noticeboards and website.