Active Age Activities
This page gives you some information abot some of the actvities that we run or are intending to run at the Active Age Centre. To view the full list of intended activities please click here.
Yoga
A Yoga Session and Carole - Our Yoga instructor.
What is Yoga?
Yoga is a series of postures and stretches that are intended to help with muscle toning, posture and relaxation. Whilst Yoga originates from religious practice, religion forms no part in the Yoga taught at the Active Age Centre. Yoga is non competitive and open to all. Many people in our classes find it difficult getting down to and off the floor. However, Yoga can be practised whilst sitting in a chair. Mats are provided but if you intend to attend regularly you may wish to purchase your own mat - information about purchasing your own mat can be obtained from reception.
What is Yoga Good For?
Yoga is a subtle but effective form of exercise. You should not feel yourself panting out of breath after a Yoga session but you may feel more supple. The main benefits of Yoga are in body toning and improved mobility. Yoga is also a very good way of focussing the mind and breathing thus allowing for relaxation and escape from the stresses of the modern world. Find out when our next Yoga session is running by checking our timetable.
Our Yoga is delivered in conjunction with The Self Centre.
Tai Chi
A Tai Chi Session and Martin - Our Tai Chi instructor.
What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi or Tai Chi Chuan to give it its full name is a series of gentle movements based on coordination and relaxation. Tai Chi is non competitive, and simply by taking part and practising the movements involved you can feel the benefits.
What is Tai Chi Good For?
Tai Chi has long been regarded as having positive effects in improving co-ordination. For these reasons it is ideal for those at risk of a fall. Tai Chi can also help to improve your posture and make you feel more relaxed.
Our Tai Chi is delivered in conjunction with The Self Centre.
Pilates
What is Pilates?
Pilates involves low impact exercises with and without equipment which helps to build your muscle strength. This can improve flexibility, strength, muscle tone, body awareness, energy, and mental concentration.
Pilates originated in 1918 when Joseph Pilates designed a series of exercises that bed ridden prisoners of war could carry out in a restricted environment to aid with their rehabilitation. Thus the 500 exercises forming the Pilates Method were created.
What is Pilates Good For?
As well as the benefits mentioned above, Pilates can strengthen the abdomen, lower back and buttocks. It can also improve the posture and allow the body to move more freely.
Extend
What is Extend?
What is Extend Good For?
Chair Based Exercise
What is Chair Based Exercise?
As the name suggests, Chair Based Exercise is performed whilst sitting down. It is a series of movements, stretches and exercises that allow someone who is less mobile the opportunity to increase the heart rate and exercise limbs without bearing their own weight.
What is Chair Based Exercise Good For?
Because you are not 'on your feet' this can be an effective form of exercise for those with foot/ankle, knee or hip problems as an effective form of exercise.
What is IT?
IT stands for Information Technology, basically computers. In addition to computer lessons we are also planning to develop our IT training to cover other items such as Digital Cameras and Camcorders.
What Does IT Training Cover?
At the Active Age Centre we are providing IT training at various levels. We offer one to one computer training. This covers the basics of using a computer right from how to switch one on, advice and information about investing in a computer and using the internet. Millions of people over 50 in England do not have access to a computer or the internet. In conjunction with the national Silver Surfers campaign we are aiming to get older people involved in this digital revolution.
The benefits of accessing the Internet are endless but here are some:
- Provide a cheap method of communication with friends and family either in the UK or abroad. A long letter sent to Australia could cost pence!
- Provide access to government agencies. Find out about changes to your pension or health service from the comfort of your own home!
- Allow you to make informed choices about products by comparing different suppliers 'online'
- Take advantage of cheaper products such as 'online savings accounts'
- Internet shopping. Whilst most supermarkets do charge to deliver your internet shopping this would an option for some people.
- Provide people who are feeling isolated with a method of keeping in touch with the outside world.
In addition to our basic courses on computers and the internet we will be developing a range of courses covering topics such as:
- Digital Photography editing
- Animation / film editing
- Microsoft Office Applications
- MS Word
- MS Excel
- MS Powerpoint
- MS Access
- MS Publisher
- MS Frontpage
- Webpage creation
- Tracing your family tree
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is a complimentary therapy which involves the application (massage) of plant based Essential Oils to the body.
Aromatherapy was developed in France in 1920 after a Chemist accidentally set his arm on fire. He put it in the nearest liquid he could find which happened to be lavender oil and to his amazement the arm healed quickly and with no scar. He then investigated this further and hence Aromatherapy was born.
For more information on Aromatherapy and its benefits please click here
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is the practice that stimulating certain points on the hands ears and feet can alleviate certain ailments. It is also suggested that Reflexology can leave you feeling relaxed and give you more energy. Below is an example of a reflexology chart showing each area of the foot representing a part of the body.
What is Gentle Exercise?
This is based on Qi gong, which is a self-healing art that combines movement and meditation. Visualisations are employed to enhance the mind/body connection and assist healing.
Regular practice of qigong can:
Prevent and treat illness
Reduce stress - establish balance
Integrate mind/body/spirit - bring peace.