Isaac Maila (front) has been in the martial arts field for over 40 years. Isaac and his students on the day (back, left) Claire Berman (Rynfield), Lilly Chetty (Actonville), Manogari Moonsammy (Benoni), Moira Duggan (Farrarmere) and Heather Fraser (Rynpark) enjoyed their exercises at Homestead.
A morning of peace, tranquillity and being one with nature awaited community members who participated in World Tai Chi and Qi Gong Day recently at Homestead Dam under the guidance of sifu Isaac Maila.
The Crystal Park resident explained, in spite of being in finance professionally, he has been a martial arts instructor for the last 41 years, has taught tai chi for 20 years and is bringing relaxation and calmness of mind and body to locals for five years at Homestead.
“Tai chi is part of martial arts and qi gong is often referred to as Chinese yoga as it incorporates breathing techniques, actions and is a philosophy for life,” said Isaac.
With over 20 residents in attendance, light beginner training was offered with many describing the results of the exercise as highly beneficial.
Community members participating in World Tai Chi Day
Sifu Isaac instructing the class present at Homestead during World Tai Chi Day
Rynfield resident and medical psychotherapist Claire Berman termed tai chi in nature as “wonderful”.
“There are many benefits to doing this sort of exercise,” said Claire.
“It is physically, emotionally and mentally rewarding.
“I stopped taking high blood pressure medication since I started tai chi three years ago.”
Some of the poses from the exercises
“We have to connect with nature as we are part of nature,” explained Isaac.
“We co-exist and doing tai chi in an environment such as this brings us closer to nature and enables us to live in harmony.
“The exercises done here today can help with aliments, such as arthritis, feeling heavy chested and helps with breathing techniques.
“It can also help to speed up the healing process caused by injuries and aliments.”
Isaac further explained the poses are mostly representations of animals and provides balance, which is essential to living.
“I am extremely happy with the turnout today and wish to see more people join us in future as this is for anyone who wants to join and there isn’t an age restriction,” said Isaac.
