Tai Chi is a flowing movement to calm the mind, ease stress, and support wellbeing during cancer recovery.
What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a gentle, low-impact exercise rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s often described as ‘meditation in motion’ as its slow, flowing movements bring together the body and mind in gentle exercise and mindfulness. It helps to improve balance, coordination and flexibility, while also supporting joint health and overall mobility. Because it’s low-impact, Tai Chi is easy on the body and can be safely practised by all ages, including those with limited fitness or mobility.
On a mental and emotional level, Tai Chi is well known for its calming effects. The focus on breath and mindful movement can help to reduce stress, ease anxiety and promote a sense of inner peace. Regular practice may also improve sleep, boost mood, and enhance overall wellbeing. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve sleep or simply move in a way that feels kind to your body, Tai Chi offers a peaceful and accessible path to feeling more grounded and at ease.
How does Tai Chi benefit those with cancer?
Tai Chi is low-impact and gentle on the body, making it particularly suitable for people undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment.
One of the key benefits of Tai Chi is its ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. The calm, rhythmic movements encourage a sense of mental stillness, helping to ease anxiety, improve sleep and support emotional wellbeing, especially valuable during a time that can feel mentally and emotionally overwhelming. It can help you to feel more grounded and better able to cope with the ups and downs of your cancer journey. Tai Chi places a strong emphasis on breathing and presence, helping individuals reconnect with their bodies in a positive and compassionate way. This can be particularly healing for those who feel disconnected or discouraged by the physical changes brought on by illness or treatment.
As with any form of exercise, it’s wise to speak with a healthcare professional before starting. For cancer patients who may experience weakness, joint stiffness or fatigue, Tai Chi offers a way to gently rebuild strength and mobility without placing strain on the body. Its adaptable nature means it can be practised standing or seated, making it accessible even for those with limited energy or physical restrictions. Research suggests that Tai Chi may also help with fatigue management, immune function and even pain relief. Some cancer patients report feeling more energised and emotionally balanced after regular practice. Additionally, the social aspect of joining a group class – whether in person or online – can offer a welcome sense of connection and support.
How to apply
If you are new to Wessex Cancer Support and have not already had a wellbeing assessment with one of our friendly team, we ask that you contact us to make a referral for an appointment. Our team will provide you with further information and availability of any activities you both decide on. As a new client, we’ll add you to our email newsletter list so you can keep an eye on forthcoming activities, too.
Alternatively, you can email careteam@wessexcancer.org.uk to refer to your initial chat or drop into your local cancer support centre in person.
What to expect from a Tai Chi session?
Your first Tai Chi session will be gentle, supportive and suitable for beginners; there’s no need to have any previous experience. There’s very little you need to bring or do beforehand. Just wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes that allow you to move easily (or go barefoot if you prefer). It’s also a good idea to bring a bottle of water and Malcolm, our instructor, know if you have any health concerns or physical limitations before you begin. Most importantly, come with an open mind and a willingness to try something new.
The session will usually begin with a warm welcome and some simple breathing or standing exercises to help you settle in. Malcolm, our experienced instructor, will then guide you through a series of slow, flowing movements, which he will demonstrate. You’ll be encouraged to move at your own pace and there’ll be no pressure to get everything “right”. Tai Chi is about feeling comfortable in your body and enjoying the moment, rather than aiming for perfection.
If you’d like to try some simple Tai Chi exercises before you join us, Malcolm has recorded four short videos to give you a taste of what to expect.
Donate to support
a Tai Chi session
Your donation helps make services like our meditation sessions possible. Helping to promote physical health and wellbeing, our Tai Chi sessions, provide the gentle, physical exercise for clients supporting their recovery from cancer treatments. £20 could help support the cost of a meditation session for a client, giving them the support they need at a difficult time in their lives.
Meditation sessions are generously funded by people who donate, fundraise, and shop with us. Every penny you donate makes a huge difference. From everyone at Wessex Cancer Support, thank you.
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Volunteering with Wessex Cancer Support is a truly rewarding way to make a difference. By giving our time, we bring care, comfort, and kindness to people affected by cancer, reminding them they are never alone. Every raffle ticket sold, every event supported, and every conversation shared touches lives in a meaningful way. Together, we can help ensure compassion and hope are at the heart of everything we do.
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