Chronic Pain Course

ReMap Course Summary - March to June 2019

Wednesday 12 June 2019 saw the completion of the 12 week ReMap course, a movement and stillness class for those living with chronic pain. Over the duration I introduced the students to 'Hibernating Bear Tai Chi', covering a variety of Qigong, Chen Tai Chi and stillness practices specifically designed for those living with differing health base-lines than the norm.

In the mix was;

• working with health base-lines with grace
• acceptance through the absence of resistance
• compassion training
• the meaning of true physical relaxation
• the stress and relaxation response
• diaphragmatic breathing
• joint expansion and compression
• physical symmetry, posture and alignment in class and daily life
• body awareness
• detoxing through movement
• training with fatigue
• releasing mental tension
• tools to aid anxiety and depression
• the mind and body connection
• movement and stillness for chronic pain management

Each and every student approached the lessons with an empty mind and a warm heart. Over the weeks the the students trained well and relaxed hard. They absorbed a lot of information about self-responsibility in wellbeing through the gentle yet powerful exercises of Tai Chi and Qigong, and the mindful practices of seated meditation. Thank you so much to each student for their enthusiasm, laughter and presence.

The course was evaluated throughout by the NHS Chronic Pain Clinic, who are currently collating student feedback. I cannot wait to see the final report and hopefully see in print the positive impact that the classes have had on their lives. Thank you also to the Independent Arts Charity for the organisation and funding of the course, as well as for providing such a great venue.