Lose yourself in a meditative world where gravity seems to disappear and you have the opportunity to improve your health and well being. Discover a relaxation technique with an active, yet calming approach to health. Improve range of motion, circulation, flexibility, balance and coordination as well as concentration and focus with Ai Chi.

    Ai Chi is a simple, yet disciplined sixteen-part sequence of movements performed standing in chest- to neck-deep warm water. Utilizing a combination of deep breathing and slow, broad movements of the arms, legs and torso in flowing continual patterns, Ai Chi promotes relaxation and enhances both physical and mental well being. Created in the early 1990s by Jun Konno, the President of the Aqua Dynamic Institute in Japan, Ai Chi has now been added to aquatic therapy programs at premier rehabilitation facilities in the United States.

   To an extent, the mastery of the Ai Chi se-quence requires physical and mental discipline, but this investment in time and energy is well spent for the resulting payoff of improved health and well being. Physical strength and fitness are not required to perform it, and Ai Chi can be learned and practiced by people of all abilities and ages. People with physical disabilities, as well as those recovering from injuries or surgery, can benefit by practicing Ai Chi movements. Many also find that the supportive nature of the water helps them to move in ways that would be difficult or impossible on land.

   Ai Chi offers an increase in balance, flexibility, stability, range of motion, strength, focus and concentration. The primary intention of this simple, relaxed exercise is not the accomplishment of the movements alone, but the inward focus, concentration and relaxation that is achieved. Ai Chi incorporates yogic breathing techniques and principles of land-based T'ai Chi, and has similarities to Water Shiatsu (Watsu). Using conscious breathing as a bridge to connect the mind and the body, Ai Chi becomes a catalyst for relaxation and meditation.

   Ai Chi is traditionally taught to small groups in a quiet and warm swimming pool. Often, serene music is part of the program. The ideal water temperature is between 88 and 92 degrees Fahrenheit, and although cooler water temperatures can sometimes be used after an adequate warm-up, it is important that the participants avoid becoming cold or chilled. A radius of about five feet around each person in the water is ideal, and the water should come up to between the shoulder and chin level.

   Ai Chi begins with a focus on breathing and then adds upper extremity movement. Trunk stability and lower extremity movements are incorporated next; finally coordinated full body movements are introduced. Integrating breathing patterns with these movements is the central core of Ai Chi, but many factors play a role in its effectiveness. The soothing and buoyant properties of the warm water are just as integral to the process because they further the body's ability to relax. The still and calming nature of the water allows participants to experience a gentle and supportive resistance to their movements while reducing the effects of gravity on the body. The lightness of the body in the water increases stability and simplifies the process of balancing, allowing one to focus on the movements. The gentle resistance and support of the water during the movements helps improve muscle tone and eases movements without added stress to the joints.

   The slow, contemplative movements are particularly beneficial for people interested in reducing their stress levels. Ai Chi can help lower blood pressure and induce a feeling of calm and harmony in the mind, body and spirit. Konno explains, “In our hectic but sedentary world, we found that we needed to exercise, so we set aside time to exercise. Now, we find we have cumulative stress symptoms and diseases, and we have to set aside time to relax.” Ai Chi offers both exercise and relaxation in a single activity.

   In our goal-oriented world, it is particularly interesting to understand Konno's philosophy towards learning Ai Chi. "Ai Chi precision is something to work towards, but only in a non-judgmental way. While we're reconnecting our body to our mind (and breathing) we'll go through a lengthy learning process. We accept the learning and evolution as a kind and friendly path to follow." In other words, the journey is as important as the goal.
Stephanie Dutton is a specialized swimming teacher from the United Kingdom, now working in the Cleveland, Ohio area, offering education, training and water therapy. She focuses on Shaw Method Swimming (applying the principles of the Alexander Technique), Ai Chi and Water Shiatsu. Classes are available at Lifeworks of Southwest General in Middleburg Heights or can be arranged at your own facility provided the pool depth and temperature can meet the requirements. For more information, e-mail: Stephanie@enjoythewater.com, please call: (440) 292-6776 or visit: www.enjoythewater.com.