It’s being believed that Tai chi triggers healthy body and mind and that was substantially proved when 70-year-old Lynda Neame got relief from concussion when she joined modified tai chi classes in 2008.

The Tai chi sessions not only improved her physical strength but cater to her concern related to osteoarthritis, which had retired her almost to a sedentary life style. Though the effect of the sessions could be seen slowly, a learner gradually observes difference in his physical agility.

"I spent an hour recovering after half an hour in the garden and thought `this will be my life'”, claimed Mrs. Neame. But now, she juggles a lot in swimming and other hobby activities.

Ever since these diseases, Mrs. Neame averted going put for any overseas trip but this time, she will be travelling to Niue with her husband Ivan. Though her initial sessions were funded by ACC under their falls prevention programme, there onwards, she paid herself for a maintenance course instructed by Liz Scott, whom she describes as a "wonderful teacher who is so patient and understanding of older bodies".

Even the breathing techniques and visualizing tai chi postures helped her combating pain after she had a hip replacement in 2010. Such free modified tai chi courses are being organized by the Presbyterian Support enliven positive ageing services.