Tranquility in Motion

For Older Adults
Tranquility In Motion is designed for adults age 60 and up. The exercises and teaching methods come from Aikido and Japanese Yoga. They have been tailored to the needs of older adults. With a little training, all of the exercises and techniques can be practiced at home. The basic principles can be applied to daily life to increase mental and physical wellbeing.

Current Status of This Program
At this time, Saint Louis Ki Society does not have any Tranquility In Motion classes scheduled. There are no specific plans to schedule any in the near future. At some point we will have the time and other resources to restart these classes. We have found that it takes a great deal of work to bring students into the classes. It is likely that we will team up with a senior center or community center to offer Tranquility In Motion. Unless some opportunity comes to us, I expect it will be 6 months to a year before we have put resouces towards creating the opportunity.

Oneness Rhythm Exercises
Each class begins and ends with these easy movements done to music. In the beginning, the movements help participants warm up and stretch. At the end of class, participants can use them to practice the principles of movement and balance they learned in class.

Floor Stretches
Simple, light floor stretches are practiced. These are basic movements that each participant can do according to their own ability. We have a comfortable padded floor to sit on for these exercises.

Focus & Centering
Simple meditation and breathing techniques are taught and practiced in every class. Participants learn to practice concentration and observe the workings of their mind. One type of meditation focuses on the breath. It uses a specific method of breathing to help participants develop fuller, more relaxed breath in daily life. This is good for general health and can easily be practiced at home.

Posture & Balance
Everyday movements and positions are used to teach principles of balance. This training helps each participant develop their own best posture. A light push is often used to test the stability of participants. This "ki test" provides a form of biofeedback, revealing the quality and depth of physical relaxation and mental calmness. Each test helps students cultivate a reliable relaxation response that can be called upon in daily life.

Calmness & Relaxation
Visualization techniques are used to teach how mind and body are connected and interactive. A calm mind and relaxed body work together more efficiently. These techniques help participants feel the power and effectiveness of using mind and body together. Using our imagination in a positive way improves the rest of our training and our life.

Getting Started,
Come visit us and try a class free.
Call (314) 726-5070 or come by and visit. Call if you have any questions. You can also contact the teacher by e-mail at markrubbert@stlki.org. Go to the Saint Louis Ki Society website at www.stlki.org to see all the details about days and times.

What to Wear
Wear loose comfortable clothing such as sweat pants & t-shirts or workout suits that won't restrict your movement.

FACTS about PHYSICAL ACTIVITY for OLDER ADULTS
[From "A Report of the Surgeon General, Physical Activity and Health, Older Adults"]
* The loss of strength and stamina attributed to aging is in part caused by reduced physical activity.
* Older adults, both male and female, can benefit from regular physical activity.
* Physical activity need not be strenuous to achieve health benefits
* Helps maintain the ability to live independently and reduces the risk of falling and fracturing bones.
* Reduces the risk of dying from coronary heart disease and of developing high blood pressure, colon cancer, and diabetes
* Helps control joint swelling and pain associated with arthritis


FACTS about MEDITATION
[From "Ki Meditation: good for the mind, good for the body", By Guillermo Paz-y-Miño C. PhD, Worcester State College]
* Studies on meditation show improvement in the overall health of patients who suffer a variety of disorders
* Daily meditation produces a significant reduction in anxiety and stress
* Anger is moderated with consistent practices of meditation
* General pain, cold-related pain, and migraine headaches can be minimized with meditation and breathing exercises