Residents at Chester's Belong care village have been working on flowing movements, deep breathing and mental focus, as they take part in regular Tai Chi classes.

The Chinese martial art is currently being embraced by those aged 80 and upwards, in their quest to try new things at the local retirement community.

Maria Yuen of Ji Siu Tai Chi Chuan leads the Wu Style Tai Chi Chuan classes, in what is proving to be a big hit - having been organised by the care village's dedicated experience team.

"Yoga and meditation came top of the list of the ideas our customers wanted to explore, so we enlisted Maria's expertise to make it happen," said Chloe Wynn, Belong Chester's support manager. 

"Tai Chi also complements our programme of group and one-to-one exercise with our in-house exercise specialist, enhancing their physical strength, balance and coordination, thereby maintaining their independence and helping to prevent falls – it's a win-win."  

Residents and tenants have been enjoying tuition in balance and gentle flowing movements, with both standing and sitting options available for less-mobile participants.    

Chloe added: "It has been fabulous having Maria leading the workshops. Her passion captivates our customers, and they always look forward to what she has to share with us next."   

Older participants have also enjoyed using traditional Tai Chi weapons - such as swords - alongside learning Cantonese greetings, discovering Chinese culture, and watching special demonstrations tying in with occasions such as Chinese New Year, and Dementia Awareness Week.   

The activities also support cognitive function and overall wellbeing, with Tai Chi now a popular talking point throughout the City Road care village.

Maria Yuen, leader of Ji Siu Tai Chi Chuan, added: "It is always a pleasure to bring Tai Chi to the Belong community – it's such a welcoming and positive atmosphere in which to work. 

"It is great for improving mobility and wellbeing, and the exercises are adapted specially to meet the differing ability of older people. 

"I'm always impressed at how willing Belong's residents are willing to try new things; we have a laugh and smile."