01/03/2024
New Weekly Tai Chi & Qigong Class Starting January 9, 2024 at 9 AM in Franklin Recreation in The Villages, FL.
This is a great opportunity to get some healthy activity for those New Year’s Resolutions. I started doing tai chi about 40 years ago in China during a college exchange semester. I have been teaching for the last 9 years. Please pass forward this to your friends and neighbors.
This is a weekly class starting on 1/9/2024 at 9 AM at Franklin Recreation in the Dixielee Room; however, since the class is brand new there are some preexisting reservations on the room, so there will not be a class on 1/16/2024. Classes continue on 1/23/2024.
This class is open to all residents and guests with guest passes.
“In addition to learning in class, it is important to practice every day.” – James Jeffers
Tai chi and Qigong are ancient practices that originated in China. There is growing evidence that these mind-body practices have significant value in treating and preventing health problems. No special clothing or equipment is required. You can do it anywhere for ten minutes.
Health Benefits. Qigong and Tai Chi relax and balance the central nervous system, release physical and emotional stress and promote mental and emotional well-being. They enhance a balanced immune system.
Who can practice? Tai Chi and Qigong’s gentle, non-jarring movements and standing practice are ideal for people of any age and body type. Regular practice develops a high degree of relaxation, balance and physical coordination. The gentle movements have minimal stress on muscles and joints, making it generally safe for all ages and fitness levels.
What styles are taught? Tai chi is taught via the Yang 24 movement form. Qigong is taught via the Eight Pieces of Brocade and Five Animals Frolic. Both practices integrate with Taoist practices. Tai chi and Qigong are excellent preparations for a meditation session and work well with yoga practice. While Tai chi and Qigong can be taken separately, taking them together will enhance the benefits.
Also, and very important, it is more fun to have friends in class to learn with whom and practice – so please share this widely with your networks!
Building a Sustainable Practice
· You don’t have to be an expert to benefit from learning Tai chi and Qigong. Even while learning as a raw beginner, they foster vibrant health from deep within your body. As you grow in experience and are able to pay more attention to body alignments and energy mechanics, you’ll find you gain more and more from your practice.
· Give yourself time to absorb the big shapes of the moves. Most important thing is learning the whole sequence—even if you have to fudge some moves. This builds confidence for the long haul. Refining the moves happens with practice.
· If you have specific moves, you really like, do them by themselves. This builds up your confidence and creates the foundational skills needed to eventually overcome the bigger challenges of more difficult moves.
· Do not emotionally beat yourself up over moves that you personally find difficult. Just move on and complete the entire sequence as best you can. Don’t get hung up on one or two moves. You will improve with practice.
· Whatever you do, don’t compare your learning speed to others. Tai chi and Qigong can be challenging to learn although some will pick it up faster than others. It’s your commitment that matters. Above all, be patient with yourself.
Your Neighbor,
James Jeffers
571-296-4825
