In 2014, after receiving a diagnosis for breast cancer, a few girlfriends who were students in CentroDamad’s Tao Yin class suggested I immediately begin joining them for class. They were confident Tao Yin would benefit me greatly and help balance the effects of pending chemo treatments over the next nine months. Although never a fan of any structured form of exercise, I couldn’t say no to my friends and agreed to give the class a try for two weeks before making a decision to continue or stop. Needless to say, I continued. It has been one of the best recommendations my friends have given me, and setting aside two hours a week has been one of the best ‘gifts’ I’ve given myself. I would recommend this course for anyone.

Throughout the rigorous treatment schedule, the class gave me two hours a week where my only goal was to relax and focus my energy. Plus, our instructor, Victor, gave me specific movements designed to maintain not just my energy levels but also boost my blood count during a time in treatment when my body was most compromised. I can tell you, never during the nine months of chemo was I tired or sick; and my doctors were always pleased, if not a little surprised, that my white and red blood cell counts never dipped below normal levels.

This course is very gentle and beneficial for all ages and fitness levels. It has helped me focus my mind and body and I always feel rejuvenated at the end of class. I also now understand why my friends made me promise to attend 2 weeks (4 classes) before making a decision. Each class is different from the last and build upon one another, resulting in a very pleasant and peaceful cumulative effect. So it would have been unfair for me had I made a judgement from a single class alone.