‘Tai Chi – The Mind & Body Connection' set for May 5 diabetes group

“Tai Chi – The Mind & Body Connection” will be presented at the Monday, May 5, meeting of the Diabetes Support Group sponsored by St. Joseph's Hospital in Breese.

The presentation is set for 6 p.m. in the conference room of the new hospital HealthPlex.

Tai Chi can help prevent diabetes, increase circulation, heart and lung function, improve balance and coordination, build muscle strength and stamina, relieve stress and depression, improve concentration and memory, improve posture and biomechanics and enhance energy, said hospital Diabetes Educator Barb Voss.

Those attending the May 5 meeting are encouraged to dress comfortably.

“Participants will have the opportunity to try some gentle movements that could help them attain and maintain control over blood sugar levels,” Voss said. Simple warm-up exercises will be explained, demonstrated and practiced.

St. Joseph's in Breese offers Tai Chi classes at the new HealthPlex; dates will be announced as finalized. Cost is $20 for the six-week Basic Movements class or $30 for the nine-week Advanced class; class size is limited.

The St. Joseph-Breese diabetes group generally meets the first Monday of alternating months, except holidays. Program information is announced prior to each meeting.

Risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include being over 45 years old, obesity, eating habits and inactivity. Symptoms include fatigue, increased hunger or thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, irritability and vision changes. Anyone with one or more symptoms should contact their health professional.

Some people show no symptoms and must be diagnosed through a physical or blood chemistry work.

For more information or to be added to the mailing list for meeting notices, contact Voss at 526-5743 or email Barb Voss. For outpatient nutritional counseling in connection with diabetes or other medical concerns, call 618.526-5381.