A retired occupational therapist, Adrienne spent her career helping others build strength and preserve energy. But after a few falls and a busy stretch of home renovations, she realized it was time to focus on her own well-being.

“I didn’t want to go back to work. I wanted to take care of the old ‘bod,’” she says with a laugh. “Learning tai chi had always been on my bucket list, and when I saw Juniper offered a class geared toward seniors, I jumped in.”

Adrienne first heard about Juniper through a friend who had been taking the SAIL (Stay Active & Independent for Life) strength and balance class. After a year of consideration, she joined SAIL and was immediately hooked. “I could tell the class was based in science. I appreciated the use of medical terms. It’s respectful and educational.”

While still active in SAIL, Adrienne also enrolled in Juniper’s Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance beginner class. “Jessica is an incredible teacher. She takes it at our pace, clarifies things, and points out what we wouldn’t have noticed. She even shows us the ‘wrong’ way to do a movement so we can feel the difference. That’s so helpful.”

Now in the advanced Tai Ji Quan class, Adrienne finds herself practicing movements outside of class, like reaching for objects with flexed knees, distributing her weight and catching herself before a fall. “I’ve had a couple of pretty bad falls in the past. But in the year I’ve taken SAIL, I haven’t fallen once. There were a few times I caught myself, and I know it’s because of the muscle memory and habits I’ve built. I’ve gained strength, balance and confidence.” She’s also strengthened her muscles naturally to manage her osteoporosis without medication.

Beyond the physical benefits, Adrienne treasures the mental stimulation and community connection Juniper provides. “Jessica’s mirror-image teaching is great for the brain. Listening to verbal instructions while watching visual cues—it’s a mental exercise. That’s not something people talk about, but it matters.”

Adrienne attends all classes via Zoom and has even recruited friends and family to join, including her sister who’s now a regular. “I plan my appointments around Juniper classes. When I miss a day, I feel the difference.”

Her advice to anyone considering Juniper? “Take it! I can attest to the benefits. I’m living proof. It’s literally a life saver.” She hopes more physicians will learn about Juniper and recommend it to their patients.

Adrienne’s story is a testament to the power of movement, community and thoughtful instruction. With a little help from Juniper, Adrienne continues to thrive.