Spreading the Word: Presenting the Benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi to Probus Members

Jinli Wushu-Tai Chi was recently given the opportunity to spread the word about the health and longevity benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi to the Melbourne Sunrise Probus Club. The event was hosted at the Community Hub Docklands, overlooking Victoria Harbour.

Melbourne Sunrise Probus Club (MSPC) is a non-political and non-sectarian club. The club’s emphasis is on being free from the constraints and obligations of service clubs and allowing members to participate at minimum personal cost. MSPC has a range of activities and interest groups designed to promote active minds and bodies, with an emphasis on social interaction. Members are encouraged to enjoy the fellowship of new friends.

Shifu Peter Eves was invited to give a 20-minute presentation on the health and longevity benefits of Qigong and Tai Chi to over 60 MSPC members. The presentation included an explanation of what Qigong and Tai Chi are; their origins; their Health benefits and how to use them for, amongst other things, falls prevention. Tai Chi was given a strong recommendation in World Guidelines for Falls Prevention and Management for Older Adults: A Global Initiative: Published October 2022, so this information was shared, long with the benefits for neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging.

The presentation was followed by a 30-minute qigong practice to give the members an opportunity to experience some qigong for themselves. ShiBaShi Taiji Qigong was chosen as it includes some movements from Tai Chi and is easy to follow.

Both the lecture and Qigong practice were received with enthusiasm and interest. It was gratifying to see active participation in both. Many reported feeling calmer but refreshed afterward.

It was interesting to note that when asked how many people had heard of qigong, only eight out of over sixty people had heard of it. And of that eight, only three actually knew what it was. Of course, most had heard of Tai Chi. 

It was inspiring for Peter to see a group of retired and semi-retired people active, full of life, and eager to learn.

As students of Jinli Wushu-Tai Chi, and practitioners of Qigong and Tai Chi, we sometimes become a little blasé about the health benefits we have received from these practices. With and ageing population in Australia and chronic illness at an all-time high, I would encourage all JinLi school members to spread “the word” when they can. When talking to friends and work colleagues, explain why you look and feel better… spread the love!