Tai Chi for Therapists

Ep. 07 Mindful Movement: Enhancing Physiotherapy Practice with Evidence-Based Tai Chi for Chronic Health Conditions

In this episode we're in conversation with Samantha Hewitt, a qualified Physiotherapist and Mindfulness Coach based in Manchester, UK. Sam works part-time in the NHS where she works with a variety of patients including those with complex and chronic health conditions. When she's not working in the NHS, she runs her own business called, Move More Mindfully Physiotherapy. Sam incorporates tai chi and qigong into her clinical practice as part of mindful movement and functional movement coaching. She finds that Tai chi complements both her Physiotherapy and Mindfulness Coaching practice. Links Website: www.movemoremindfullyphysiotherapy.co.uk [http://www.movemoremindfullyphysiotherapy.co.uk] Instagram/Facebook: @physiomovemoremindfully Interview Highlights Highlights from our conversation with Samantha Hewitt: - Samantha (Sam) is a physiotherapist in Manchester who works in the NHS and runs her own practice called "Move More Mindfully Physiotherapy". - Sam combines traditional physiotherapy with mindfulness coaching and Tai Chi, creating an integrated approach to patient care. - As someone living with autoimmune conditions (thyroid condition and endometriosis), Sam brings valuable lived experience to her practice, helping her empathise with patients facing chronic conditions. - Sam highlights how fear can potentially create a vicious cycle for patients living with chronic health conditions where they avoid movement due to pain or anxiety which can worsen how they experience their condition. - Mindfulness coaching doesn't necessarily mean sitting cross-legged and meditating. It can be incorporated into functional movements and daily activities, making it more accessible to patients who struggle with traditional meditation. - Tai Chi serves as a natural bridge between physiotherapy and mindfulness, offering a "moving mindfulness" practice that addresses both physical and mental aspects of health. - The approach can be individualised and simplified based on patient needs - Sam often introduces Tai Chi principles without labelling them as such, focusing instead on gentle, curious movement exploration. - Visual imagery and metaphors (like "being on a little boat that won't capsize") help patients connect with their bodies in new ways. - For some patients with chronic pain, traditional body scan meditations can be triggering. Tai Chi's mindful movement approach can offer a better alternative by providing distraction while still promoting mindfulness. - Patients are often surprised by how physically engaging Tai Chi can be, despite its gentle appearance. The standing postures, weight-shifting, and extended arm positions provide effective exercise. - Sam advises other physiotherapists interested in incorporating Tai Chi to keep it simple rather than feeling they need to learn complex sequences. - Tai Chi principles can be integrated into standard physiotherapy practice through clinically reasoned exercises that address range of motion, balance and strength. - Tai Chi aligns well with the biopsychosocial model of healthcare, addressing physical needs while supporting mental wellbeing. - Sam aims to expand her practice to include more group classes, bringing this holistic approach to more patients. Summary This podcast highlights how integrating mindful movement practices like Tai Chi into physiotherapy can provide patients with tools for self-management, particularly those living with chronic conditions, whilst supporting both physical rehabilitation and mental wellbeing. Listen, rate, and subscribe. Have you enjoyed this episode? Please take a moment to rate and subscribe, it really helps us keep the podcast going. Would you like to find out more about our class leading CPD course for health professionals: Tai Chi for Therapists [https://www.discovertaichi.uk/courses]. We created this course for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their clinical practice. If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional visit our course page [https://www.taichifortherapists.com/courses] to find out more. We look forward to seeing you, Phil & Helen Website: www.taichifortherapists.com [https://www.taichifortherapists.com/]

Ep.06 Merging Movement Into Occupational Therapy Practice With Ali Leigh

Welcome to episode six of the Tai Chi for Therapists podcast. In this episode we talk with Ali Leigh, an Occupational Therapist based in Sussex.  In Ali's own words, “I am deeply passionate about my role as an Occupational Therapist. It’s a privilege to use the therapeutic power of movement to enhance the mental and physical wellbeing of my clients. I also offer Yoga (both full and seated practices) and Tai Chi in NHS hospitals, schools, and private practice settings. As a Return to Practice OT, I’ve embarked on an incredible journey to carve out my niche—integrating Occupational Therapy with the transformative benefits of Yoga and Tai Chi. I’m also passionate about empowering fellow OTs to confidently incorporate movement-based activities into their clinical practice. If you’d like to explore how we can work together or if I can support you in any way, please don’t hesitate to reach out.” Instgram: @alison.otandyoga LinkedIn Ali Leigh [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-leigh-7a274883/] Interview Summary 1. Integration of Tai Chi and Yoga in Occupational Therapy (OT):    - Ali, an occupational therapist, discusses her journey of integrating Tai Chi and Yoga into her OT practice, particularly in mental health and educational settings.    - She emphasizes the importance of movement-based therapies in expanding patients' lives, especially those experiencing sensory deprivation or limited mobility. 2. Benefits of Movement-Based Therapies:    - Tai Chi and Yoga are highlighted for their ability to help patients reconnect with their bodies, improve mobility, and enhance mental well-being.    - These practices are particularly effective for individuals who may feel disconnected from their bodies due to age, mental health issues, or physical limitations. 3. Application in Different Settings:    - Mental Health: Ali used these practices in community mental health settings to help patients expand their world and improve their sensory experiences.    - Schools: She collaborated with PE departments to introduce Tai Chi and Yoga to children, particularly those who struggled with traditional PE classes. This helped children feel more included and confident in their movement abilities.    - Acute and Older Adult Wards: Ali implemented these practices in hospital settings, where even patients who initially observed from the periphery eventually engaged and benefited from the sessions. 4. Embodiment and Reconnection:    - Both Tai Chi and Yoga help patients reconnect with their bodies, which can be especially powerful for older adults or those with chronic conditions. For example, one elderly patient expressed joy at "feeling her legs again" after participating in Tai Chi. 5. Non-Threatening and Accessible:    - Tai Chi is particularly noted for being non-threatening and accessible, making it easier for patients with limited mobility or confidence to engage in movement therapy.    - Unlike Yoga, which some patients perceive as requiring high flexibility, Tai Chi is seen as more approachable, especially for older adults or those with physical limitations. 6. Professional Collaboration and Evidence-Based Practice:    - Ali worked closely with senior OT staff and hospital managers to implement these practices, using evidence-based research to support her approach.    - She emphasizes the importance of collecting data and sharing evidence to ensure these practices are embedded in clinical settings. 7. Future Directions:    - Ali is exploring opportunities to integrate Tai Chi and Yoga into tennis programmes for older adults, in collaboration with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and Age UK. This would combine physical activity with movement therapy to enhance overall well-being.    - She is also looking to expand her reach through social media and training other OTs in these practices. 8. Advice for Health Professionals:    - Ali encourages health professionals to start small, even 10-15 minutes of movement can be beneficial.    - She advises seeking training in Tai Chi and Yoga to confidently integrate these practices into therapy sessions.    - Building a community of practice with other OT's and health professionals is crucial for support and sharing best practices. Applicability for Health Professionals: - Movement-Based Therapies: Health professionals, especially OTs, can consider incorporating Tai Chi and Yoga into their practice to help patients with physical and mental health challenges. - Evidence-Based Approach: Collecting data and presenting evidence can help gain support from colleagues and management for implementing these therapies. - Patient-Centered Care: Tailoring movement therapies to individual patient needs can help them reconnect with their bodies and improve their quality of life. - Collaboration: Working with other professionals and organizations (e.g., schools, sports clubs) can expand the reach and impact of these therapies. In Summary Ali highlights the practical applications and benefits of Tai Chi and Yoga in various healthcare settings, offering actionable insights for health professionals interested in integrating these practices into their work. Listen, rate, and subscribe. Have you enjoyed this episode? Please take a moment to rate and subscribe, it really helps us keep the podcast going. Would you like to find out more about our class leading CPD course for health professionals: Tai Chi for Therapists [https://www.discovertaichi.uk/courses]. We created this course for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their clinical practice. If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional visit our course page [https://www.taichifortherapists.com/courses] to find out more. We look forward to seeing you, Phil & Helen Website: www.taichifortherapists.com [https://www.taichifortherapists.com/]

Ep.05 Occupational Therapy In Sport and Physical Activity With Lisa Westhorpe

Welcome to episode 5. In a slight departure from previous episodes we talk with Lisa Westhorpe, Occupational Therapist and National Lead with the social enterprise, Sport For Confidence. Profile Lisa is passionate about promoting health through meaningful occupation, and ensuring physical activity is accessible for all. Having gained experience as a support worker and rehabilitation assistant, and various occupational therapy roles across school based practice, maternal health, learning disability, and community and acute settings in the UK and USA, Connecting and working alongside partners across the health, sport and leisure industries, Lisa shares Sport for Confidence’s work in addressing health inequalities through access to meaningful physical activity, underscoring the importance of an occupational therapy perspective across different settings. Links: Physical Activity and Mental Health Infographic (White et al 2024) https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/content/dam/digital/pdf/health-sciences/White-et-al-(2024)-Mediator-Moderator-Systematic-Review-Results.png [https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/content/dam/digital/pdf/health-sciences/White-et-al-(2024)-Mediator-Moderator-Systematic-Review-Results.png] Physical Activity and Mental Health Paper (White et al 2024) DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-024-01676-6 Sport for Confidence website: https://www.sportforconfidence.com/ [https://www.sportforconfidence.com/] Information on how to join our MovingOTs Community of Practice, where occupational therapy practitioners and students can connect and learn about integrating physical activity into their practice: https://www.sportforconfidence.com/our-services/sport-england-system-partner/ [https://www.sportforconfidence.com/our-services/sport-england-system-partner/] Prevention & Enablement Model – demonstrating how voluntary sector organisations can support the work of statutory services, and move towards a more preventative, whole systems approach: https://www.sportforconfidence.com/our-services/prevention-enablement-model/ [https://www.sportforconfidence.com/our-services/prevention-enablement-model/] Resources to support OTs to use physical activity within their everyday work: https://www.sportforconfidence.com/resources/ [https://www.sportforconfidence.com/resources/] Sport for Confidence’s YouTube channel, including recordings of trainings and Community of Practice sessions: https://www.youtube.com/@sportforconfidence405/videos [https://www.youtube.com/@sportforconfidence405/videos]   Interview Insights for Health Professionals: 1. Holistic Approach to Physical Activity - Sport for Confidence is a community interest company that reduces health inequalities by providing inclusive physical activity opportunities - The organization uses a unique model combining occupational therapists and sports coaches to support individuals aged 16+ in accessing physical activities 2. Breaking Down Barriers to Physical Activity - Barriers extend beyond physical accessibility, including:   * Systemic challenges   * Staff attitudes and training   * Psychological barriers like anxiety and uncertainty   * Lack of welcoming environments 3. Psychological Mechanisms of Physical Activity - Recent research highlights multiple psychological benefits of physical activity, including:   * Self-efficacy   * Body image improvement   * Resilience building   * Self-esteem enhancement   * Emotional regulation   * Mindfulness   * Life satisfaction 4. OT's Unique Contribution - Occupational therapists are well-positioned to:   * Analyze activities   * Personalize physical interventions   * Understand the biopsychosocial model   * Support meaningful occupation   * Problem-solve and reduce barriers 5. Future of Occupational Therapy - Shifting towards:   * Prevention-focused approaches   * Community-based interventions   * Broader system influence   * Innovative practice settings Practical Recommendations: - Be brave and creative in approaching physical activity interventions - Look beyond traditional medical models - Understand the holistic benefits of physical activity - Collaborate across different systems and organizations - Focus on individual meaningful occupation Resources for Further Exploration: - Sport for Confidence website (sportforconfidence.com) - Moving OTs Community of Practice - Social media channels: Instagram (@supportforconfidence), X (@movingOTs), LinkedIn In Summary In this episode our conversation with Lisa highlights the message that physical activity is not just about physical health, but a powerful tool for comprehensive well-being, with occupational therapists playing a crucial role in making it accessible and meaningful for all individuals.   Listen, rate, and subscribe. Have you enjoyed this episode? Please take a moment to rate and subscribe, it really helps us keep the podcast going. Would you like to find out more about our class leading CPD course for health professionals: Tai Chi for Therapists [https://www.discovertaichi.uk/courses]. We created this course for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their clinical practice. If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional visit our course page [https://www.taichifortherapists.com/courses] to find out more. We look forward to seeing you, Phil & Helen Website: www.taichifortherapists.com [https://www.taichifortherapists.com/]

Ep.04 Tai Chi In A Physiotherapy Practice

In this episode we talk with Richard Leigh, a physiotherapist based in a small rural practice in Shaftesbury, Dorset, in the UK. Richard implements tai chi and qigong movements into his private practice with a diverse range of patients. Interview Summary Clinical Integration Benefits: * Complements existing physiotherapy approaches * Provides better compliance compared to traditional exercises * Can be incorporated into both individual treatment and group classes * Particularly effective for complex cases with multiple pathologies * Offers a holistic approach that addresses both physical and psychological aspects Specific Clinical Applications: Neurodynamics Can prove more effective than traditional nerve stretches due to: * Three-dimensional movement patterns * Integration of breathing * More flowing, less traumatic on nerves * Better compliance than standard nerve tension exercises Postural Control & Fall Prevention: * Improves base of support * Enhances midfoot balance * Develops better spatial awareness * Particularly beneficial for stair navigation in elderly patients Breathing exercises: * Helps mobilize shoulder joints * Improves rotator cuff function * Releases upper rib tension * Benefits neurovascular bundles Eight Brocades sequence: * Can be introduced gradually (2 movements at a time) * Works on multiple fascial lines * Highly accepted by patients * Can be modified for different ability levels Safety Considerations: * Very low risk compared to traditional exercises * Suitable for elderly patients (including those in their 80s) * Can be modified for seated practice * Less likely to aggravate existing conditions compared to some traditional exercises Improved outcomes for: * Vestibular conditions * Chronic pain * Post-cancer rehabilitation * Anxiety and depression * Chronic stress * Complex musculoskeletal conditions Implementation Tips: * Start with simple movements and progress gradually * Can be taught in both individual and group settings * Class sizes of 8-15 people are manageable * Regular practice (weekly classes) shows good results * Consider incorporating into existing treatment programs Patient Compliance Benefits: * Higher engagement than traditional exercise programs * Patients report enjoying the movements * Can be practiced at home independently * Promotes self-efficacy and autonomy * Empowers patients in their recovery journey In Summary Richard demonstrates how Tai Chi and Qigong can prove valuable additions to his toolkit, offering safe, effective, and well-received interventions that complement traditional approaches while promoting patient self-management and compliance.   Listen, rate, and subscribe. Have you enjoyed this episode? Then you may like to rate and subscribe so that you can enjoy more podcasts as we release them. Would you like to find out more about our class leading CPD course for health professionals: Tai Chi for Therapists [https://www.discovertaichi.uk/courses]. We created this course for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their clinical practice. If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional visit our course page [https://www.taichifortherapists.com/courses] to find out more. We look forward to seeing you, Phil & Helen Website: www.taichifortherapists.com [https://www.taichifortherapists.com/]

Ep.03 Tai Chi In A Chronic Pain Service

In this podcast we interview Carole Edin, an Occupational Therapist based in Leeds. Carole implements tai chi and qigong movements into her clinical practice with patients in a local chronic pain service. Guest Profile Carole Edin qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 2013 with a MSc in Occupational Therapy and Science from Leeds Beckett University. She has worked in a variety of settings but has primarily focused on pain management. She currently works in Leeds and implements simplified tai chi movements into her practice supporting patients self manage their condition.   Interview Summary 1. Chronic Pain Management Approach:    - Focus on self-management and self-compassion    - Emphasize pacing activities and avoiding "boom and bust" cycles    - Incorporate sleep hygiene, diet, and nutrition advice    - Address emotional well-being and stress management 2. Introduction of Tai Chi in Pain Management:    - Present Tai Chi as "enjoyable movement" rather than exercise to reduce fear-avoidance    - Start with seated movements, progressing slowly to standing    - Emphasize gentle, slow motions and individual adaptation    - Incorporate relaxation and tension-spotting techniques before and after practice 3. Benefits of Tai Chi for Chronic Pain Patients:    - Improves relaxation and stress reduction    - Enhances mobility and function    - Potential for medication reduction    - Particularly beneficial for conditions like fibromyalgia 4. Implementation Strategies:    - Tailor approaches to individual patients and their specific conditions    - Use visualization techniques for patients unable to perform physical movements    - Introduce Tai Chi gradually, emphasizing regular practice over duration    - Combine Tai Chi with other pain management strategies (described as a "jigsaw puzzle" approach) 5. Group vs. Individual Sessions:    - Adapt instructions for group settings, encouraging individual modifications    - Emphasize non-competition and personal progress 6. Practitioner Benefits:    - Potential for personal health improvements, including coordination    - Use as a self-care tool for healthcare professionals 7. Evidence-Based Practice:    - Incorporate research on Tai Chi's benefits, particularly for conditions like fibromyalgia    - Consider Tai Chi as part of a multidisciplinary approach to pain management 8. Patient-Centered Outcomes:    - Focus on improving quality of life and expanding activities despite pain    - Encourage reintroduction of enjoyable activities and socialization 9. Professional Development:    - Chronic pain management offers diverse and rewarding career opportunities    - Continuous learning due to varied patient presentations and conditions In Summary Health professionals should consider integrating Tai Chi as a complementary approach in chronic pain management, focusing on gradual introduction, individualisation, and combining it with other evidence-based strategies for optimal patient outcomes. Bonus downloads kindly provided by Carole [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Sei6CrmeImg105RTzWIi7AMkll0W3zyL?usp=share_link]. Listen, rate, and subscribe. Have you enjoyed this episode? Then you may like to rate and subscribe so that you can enjoy more podcasts as we release them. Would you like to find out more about our class leading CPD course for health professionals: Tai Chi for Therapists [https://www.discovertaichi.uk/courses]. We created this course for all registered allied health professionals, clinicians, and other rehabilitation professionals who would like to learn how to implement evidence-based tai chi and qigong movements into their clinical practice. If you’re a physiotherapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, occupational or physiotherapy assistant, or other allied health professional visit our course page [https://www.taichifortherapists.com/courses] to find out more. We look forward to seeing you, Phil & Helen Website: www.taichifortherapists.com [https://www.taichifortherapists.com]