Those taking part in a recent Tai Chi class at New River Branch Library practiced some moves, including the ‘Swimming Dragon’ and the ‘fly left leg.’
Originally associated as a method of self-defense martial arts, Tai Chi is now known to have many health benefits, and the graceful, slow movement exercise is used to relieve stress, lower blood pressure, fight depression and improve balance.
Bonnie Birdsall, who has been a Tai Chi instructor for 20 years, says that Tai Chi is for everyone — regardless of ability. Her students have ranged from as age 8 to 101.
She ends all of her Tai Chi classes with meditation, because she says it ‘settles down the chi, which is the energy that moves through us.’
This was the last class at the New River Branch Library, after a successful two-month run, but additional classes are possible in the future, according to Angelo Liranzo, the branch manager.
Birdsall currently is leading Tai Chi sessions at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library on Mondays.
