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Weaving Stories into Tai Chi for Rehabilitation When you’re teaching Tai Chi in a rehabilitation setting, the focus often starts with the physical — posture, alignment, breath, balance. But the heart of the practice goes much deeper than that. One of the most powerful ways to reach your students — especially those recovering from injury or illness — is through story . Why Stories Help Healing We are all storytellers at heart. Stories shape how we see ourselves and how we make sense of change. In rehabilitation, where students may be rebuilding trust in their bodies or confidence in their movement, stories can turn exercises into meaningful experiences. A good story does more than entertain — it helps people feel connected , motivated , and hopeful . It invites them to see their recovery as a journey, not a battle. Making Movements Meaningful Tai Chi already gives us a rich language of imagery — White Crane Spreads Wings , Wave Hands Like Clouds , Embrace Tiger, Return to Mountain. When...

Understanding the Importance of the Emotion Mind in DBT At West Midlands Hypnotherapy Centre , many of our clients come to us looking for ways to better understand and manage their emotions. Whether it’s anxiety, stress, low mood, or relationship difficulties, it often feels as though emotions take control before logic can step in. This is where the principles of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) can be particularly helpful. While hypnotherapy works at a subconscious level to promote calm and clarity, DBT offers a practical framework for recognising how our emotions influence thoughts and actions. One key concept within DBT is the Emotion Mind — a state we all experience, but rarely stop to understand. What Is the Emotion Mind? The Emotion Mind is the state we enter when our feelings take over . Our emotions influence how we think, what we say, and how we behave. Logic often steps aside, and our reactions become led by the intensity of the moment. When we’re in Emotion Mind, we mi...

At West Midlands Hypnotherapy Centre , many of our clients come to us after trying other forms of help such as counselling, CBT, or medication. They’re often determined to make a change, yet something seems to keep pulling them back to old habits, fears, or physical symptoms. This isn’t because they don’t want to get better — it’s often because something deeper is happening beneath the surface. One of the most overlooked factors in the healing process is what therapists call secondary gain . What is Secondary Gain? Secondary gain refers to the hidden benefits or protections that a person receives from their symptoms or struggles. These benefits are rarely conscious, but they can be powerful enough to keep a problem in place — even when the person sincerely wants to change. For example: Someone living with anxiety might avoid stressful events or expectations. A person with chronic pain may receive care, attention, or time to rest that their busy life doesn’t otherwise allow. ...

Benefits of tai chi and qigong  over gym sessions and aerobic classes   When we compare Tai Chi and Qigong with gym sessions or aerobic classes , the benefits often stand out most clearly for people managing chronic medical conditions or recovering from illness. Both approaches have value, but the focus and outcomes are quite different. 1. Safety & Accessibility Tai Chi and Qigong are low impact, joint-friendly, and adaptable to almost any health condition. Movements can be done standing, seated, or even with support. In contrast, gyms and aerobics can be higher impact, which may aggravate pain, fatigue, or mobility issues. 2. Gentle Rehabilitation The slow, mindful pace of Tai Chi and Qigong makes them ideal for rebuilding strength and confidence after illness or injury. They promote circulation, breathing, and gentle stretching without the strain often experienced in traditional workouts. 3. Balance & Fall Prevention One of the stro...

The Surprising Healing Power of Swearing: A Joyous Rebellion of Words Inspired by Bill Bailey’s “Remarkable Guide to Happiness” I recently read Bill Bailey’s Remarkable Guide to Happiness and was particularly struck by the unexpected joy in his chapter on swearing. Bill, ever the witty observer of life, writes about swearing not with shame or censorship, but with celebration. He reminds us that swearing — when done right — is not just a verbal release, but a deeply human, almost poetic act. It’s cathartic. It’s visceral. And, as it turns out, it might even be good for us . This got me thinking. Could there really be healing benefits to a well-timed expletive? Swearing as a Pain Reliever It turns out, there’s robust scientific evidence to support what many of us instinctively know: swearing can actually help us cope with pain. In a now-famous study from Keele University, psychologist Richard Stephens asked participants to submerge their hands in ice-cold water. Those who were al...

Title: Moving from the Inside Out: Understanding Motivation in Tai Chi & Qigong for Chronic Conditions By Mark Peters When supporting people with chronic medical conditions to begin or maintain an active lifestyle, one of the most important—yet often overlooked—factors is motivation . Not just whether someone is motivated, but why they are. In the world of health behaviour change, we often distinguish between two types of motivation: extrinsic and intrinsic . Both can play a role in encouraging participation in activities like Tai Chi and Qigong , but the balance between them often determines long-term success, especially for those managing ongoing health challenges. Extrinsic Motivation: Starting from the Outside Extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards or pressures . For example: A doctor recommends more exercise. A physiotherapist sets a rehab goal. A family member signs someone up for a class. There's a certificate or prize at the end. Soc...