It was all about breathing, balance and the benefits of movement and meditation at the November meeting of West Buckland WI.
Rob Walsh and Elaine Farley, local instructors of yang style tai chi and qigong, guided members through a taster session of basic moves, demonstrating the benefits of good posture, good breathing and gentle movement.
Everyone joined in and embraced the experience, learning simple movements to take away and practice at home.
Rob explained that tai chi originated in ancient China as a martial art, but over many hundreds of years has developed as an effective exercise for health.
Now practised worldwide, this gentle form of exercise is acknowledged to benefit health and longevity, improving posture, removing stress from the body and boosting the immune system.
At its heart, tai chi is a moving meditation with flowing movements that improve strength, flexibility and balance.
Both Rob and Elaine emphasised that tai chi is suitable for everyone, and you are never too old to begin.
Based in West Buckland, where they have a small studio, Rob and Elaine run classes throughout the Wellington area.
These are accessible to everyone and include standing and seated tai chi and qigong sessions.
Gill McGoun gave a huge thank you to Rob and Elaine for sharing their knowledge and expertise. Trying something new was a reminder that we all need to move more.
Anyone interested in tai chi can contact Rob and Elaine by emailing taichiconnectuk@gmail.com
Members then enjoyed a short refreshment break.
President Christine Wombwell continued the meeting and reminded members that the WI’s 90th anniversary Christmas party takes place on 8th December.
This is an auspicious occasion as it is the same date as the first meeting of West Buckland WI in 1936.
On 10th December, a 90th anniversary and combined carol service will take place at 2.30pm at St Mary’s Church, West Buckland.
President Christine reported that the Somerset Federation of WIs had awarded West Buckland a commemorative 90th year certificate.
A lively account of the Somerset Federation of WIs annual meeting was then provided by Anne Sparks.
For the first four months of 2027, meetings will take place in the afternoon, starting at 2pm.
New members are always welcome. If you would like to visit or join West Buckland WI, please contact Christine Wombwell on 01823 652863 or 07736 712273 or email westbuckland@somerset.wi.org.uk.
PHOTO: Rob Walsh and Elaine Farley