How Retirement Community Seniors View TCC Classes

T’ai Chi Chih is a draw for their spirit, energy and motivation at Creekside Village in Beaverton, Oregon, a thriving suburb of Portland. Here’s how and why Seniors become attached to Joy Thru Movement. If the future belongs to those who prepare for it, these Seniors have a head start.

“My calming moments come from TCC practices. I’m more open and enriched when I finish the practice with Six Healing Sounds and the Cosmic Consciousness Pose.” – Darlene K., guest from Newberg, OR

“I regard TCC as an opportunity to integrate body, brain and soul, letting go of physical discomfort and leaving intellectual thoughts behind. Starting with our warm-ups, I glide through Rocking Motion and Bird Flaps Its Wings. My body needs the gentle rhythmic movements that follow. Soft background music allows me to let go of things speaking to control. My initial fear in the class was stiffness but the “Taffies” loosen me up and help my body regain its energy. My friends in the group were concerned in the beginning about following the movements. But they have integrated all 19 movements into their lifestyle smoothly, so we all look forward to discovering the movement’s nuances each Saturday morning.” – Tom O., active gymnast and resident

“A certain calmness comes from consistently practicing the early movements. At first I felt stiff and awkward when I saw other Seniors getting into the flow. But I learned that this is a safe way to bring us together. The muscle coordination we feel in Working the Pulley and Carry the Ball to the Side provide real stability.” – Roberta S., resident

“Many fellow Seniors don’t realize how far off balance we are. Slow movements with a gentle weight shift feels invigorating and enhances my balance. When I shift forward and backward in the Daughter on the Mountaintop and Daughter in the Valley, I feel the stretch and it wakes up my body.” – Barbara J., resident

“I’m now letting go, releasing tight muscles and unneeded emotions. During Push Pull, I inhale and let life in with mindfulness; I exhale and empty my mind of the tape that says “do, do, do.” And I benefit.” – Chris, community member

“With Six Healing Sounds I concentrate on my breath and feel each movement with each breath. We’re more coordinated as a group when we call out the Six Healing Sounds, and I become more aware of my inner core.” – Judy B., community member