Use the links below to learn more about the Chair Chi Training Program for aged care professionals, carers and volunteers:
Key Characteristics of the Program
Certified Chair Chi Teacher Status
Background
Chair Chi exercise sessions are an excellent way of learning how to calm the mind and energise the body while seated on a chair. They require little space and help to improve flexibility, co-ordination, and circulation. They are ideal for those who are less physically capable of practicing standing or moving exercises, who are in wheel chairs, or whose capacity for physical movement is limited in any way. They are also highly adaptable and beneficial for residents whose cognitive capacity is impaired.
Chair Chi exercises and activities are adapted from Tai Chi, which is an ancient Chinese health and self defence system. It includes Chi Kung (energy work), and selected exercises from the Tai Chi form that are adapted so they can be done while sitting on a chair. The easy-to-learn, gentle exercises include correct breathing, relaxing the body, calming the mind, developing internal energy, circulating chi and practical Yin Yang philosophy (non-religious) – all of which are essential to Tai Chi.
Key Characteristics of the Program
- Highly interactive
- Covers physical, emotional, psychological and social aspects
- Key theoretical concepts
- Practical activities and skills
- Specific skills for specific situations
- Program content is broadly applicable for use both personally and with clients/family members
- Flexible – each skill taught can be used with either groups or individuals as part of a set of exercises or a single activity for a particular purpose
- All exercises are easily incorporated in day to day activities or work practices
- Exercises taught are highly adaptable for disability – physical or cognitive impairment
- Maximum group size of 14 enables personalised instruction
- Reflective practice and action learning
- Comprehensive workbooks (Levels One and Two)
- Complete program manual (Level Three)
Complete Program Structure
The complete training program incorporates three levels of competency and complexity. [Click on diagram for larger image]
At the end of Level One participants will be able to deliver a basic Chair Chi session.
Levels Two and Three deepen the learning, incorporating further theory and additional exercises.
At the end of Level Three participants will be able to deliver a complete Chair Chi program, drawing on and customizing a wide range of exercises applicable to their client(s).
After completing all three levels of the training program, participants may also (if they wish to do so) apply for Certified Chair Chi Practitioner status and later for Certified Chair Chi Trainer status.
If you would like more information or have questions about certification, please contact us.
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