BUSY employees at a Nelson communications firm have been taught how to wind down after a stressful day in the office.

Tai chi instructors David Pelling and Helena Kean visited workers at The Daisy Group at Lomeshaye Industrial Park to teach them how to practise the ancient martial art.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Originally developed in 13th century China, tai chi - or tai chi chuan - is practised around the world as a health-promoting exercise.

The pair, from Lighthouse Tai Chi, a project of a charity called East Lancs into Employment (ELE), gave staff a free taster session for the 16th annual National Stress Awareness Day.

The theme of the day was 'Stress: The balancing act', which highlighted the importance of a balance between work, play, and lifestyle.

Helena said: "Because the moves are done slowly and with a very focused mind, it helps you to switch off in the first instance. It's called mindful exercise. It's meditative and focused.

"You breathe slowly and gently and that boosts relaxation. You have to relax your muscles in order to move freely, and it adds to the mental relaxation as well."

She continued: "You don't need to have a shower afterwards or special clothes. You can do it for 30 minutes or for an hour. It all helps.

"The Daisy Group approached us. It's the first time we have done something like this for a corporate company and we were pleased to be given the chance to try it."

Office workers Kristie Blacklock and Emma Radcliffe were among those who took part in the free session, when participants were taught the fundamentals of the art.

Training involves five elements: solo hand routines, breathing, movement and awareness exercises and meditation response drills, and self-defence techniques.

Emma, a PR manager at the company, said: "It was a little strange at first, but we learned some really useful breathing and relaxation techniques. When I got to my desk afterwards I felt quite refreshed and ready for the day ahead."