The DOBCROSS DIARY is always keen to hear from readers about what they get up to. It seems Tai Chi is popular with villagers & they asked their teacher to write to the editor to explain about the history & the benefits of this ancient art form. Read what he has to say and you may want to join in! The Diary looks forward to hearing from other groups and we will be more than pleased to publicise your events and activities!

 “Once  upon  a time in sixteenth century China there lived a great general, Chen Wang Ting, who set about designing a great fighting system which would keep him and his men healthy and fit . No this is no fairy story, the great fighting system has many proven health benefits and is called “Tai Chi Chuan”. It is based on kung fu, Chinese medicine and yoga. Today Tai Chi is used primarily for its many proven health benefits such as stress and anxiety management. It relieves depression, arthritis, improves muscle strength, balance, flexibility and much more.

 It is a holistic therapy, developing and helping us to improve our physical, mental and emotional abilities. The important thing to realise is that it is the process of practising Tai Chi which is important, not how good we are or how much we know.

 To begin this fantastic process of regeneration and renewed health, come along to St Chad's Parish Church Hall, Lee St, Uppermill on Thursday evenings at 7pm-8pm (£5per person) and join in with a friendly helpful group of people.

I will be there to guide you along the path to health. I have been teaching in Oldham and Saddleworth for around fifteen years and practising Tai Chi for over twenty years. My teacher in China, Master Liu Yong, has given me permission to teach. I have been a gold medal winner twice in competitions in China 2007 and 2009. Add to that I am a Chinese Scouser and what more could you want?!

If you would like a chat to find out bit more, then ring me on my mobile 07976 732962” JOHN CHANG