Finding Calm and Strength Through Tai Chi – with Alena Beyer

When you picture Tai Chi, do you imagine older people moving slowly in the park? You wouldn’t be alone. But those assumptions miss the truth. Tai Chi is far more dynamic, accessible, and beneficial than most people realise.

Myth check:

• Tai Chi is only for older people ❌ False

• It’s just slow dancing with no real workout ❌ False

• You have to practise for years before noticing benefits ❌ False

What It Is

In one sentence, Alena summed it up: “It’s been my saviour.”

Tai Chi is a martial art performed in slow, mindful movements. Each sequence is rooted in self-defence but practised as a flowing, dance-like routine. Done with intention, it promotes calm, body awareness, and stress reduction

Instructor’s Story

Alena first sought Tai Chi as a way to manage stress. After trying yoga and gym workouts without success, she joined a local class, already halfway through its course. “I didn’t know what I was doing,” she laughed, “but I loved it.”

That first experience was enough to spark a lifelong commitment. Years later, when her teacher retired, she stepped forward to lead the classes.

Benefits of Tai Chi

Students often discover that Tai Chi delivers much more than they expect:

• Breathing & mindfulness – training the body to breathe deeply calms both body and mind.

• Stress relief – focusing on slow movements empties the mind of daily worries.

• Balance & coordination – strengthens stability and prevents falls.

• Memory & concentration – remembering sequences exercises both sides of the brain.

• Better sleep – many people drift off faster and more deeply after practice.

• Community – classes connect like-minded people who share the same love of movement

Who It’s For

Tai Chi is adaptable for almost anyone. Movements can be practised standing, sitting, or even with mobility aids. It’s taught everywhere from primary schools to nursing homes, making it one of the most inclusive forms of exercise

Getting Started

Interested in trying it? Look for classes through the Australian Academy of Tai Chi, with instructors across the country.

Or try these at home:

1. Balance like a stork – practise standing on one leg with a steady posture.

2. Stretch with breath – extend arms gently while inhaling, then release with the exhale.

3. Mindful breathing – place your hands on your abdomen, notice it rising and falling, and let your mind settle

Final thought: Sometimes the slowest movements make the biggest impact.

Australian Academy of Tai Chi & Living Chi

Alena Beyer - Bundaberg Tai Chi

Watch the 3 movements here - YouTube