The Statesboro Tai Chi Group gathered on Saturday morning to celebrate World Tai Chi Day and showcase the health benefits of the practice. Led by Dr. Li Li, a kinesiology professor at Georgia Southern, the group meets every Tuesday and Thursday. They were joined by Master Ya Jun from Atlanta, who guided them through different movements in the 24 forms of Tai Chi.
Originally a martial arts practice focused on combat, Tai Chi has evolved over the years to emphasize wellness, balance, and strength. Dr. Li led the group through the various forms and highlighted the benefits of Tai Chi for participants, especially in fall prevention for older individuals. Despite the group’s age range of 65-85, none have experienced serious illnesses, injuries, or contracted COVID during the pandemic.
Participant Emily Franklin shared that she joined the group to learn something new and has seen improvements in her balance and posture. She added that it’s a great way to meet people with diverse backgrounds who share a common interest in practicing Tai Chi. The group is suitable for all fitness levels and offers benefits for people of all ages, with a particular focus on older individuals.
Dr. Li explained that Tai Chi is a low-impact exercise that can help improve flexibility, range of motion, and overall fitness levels without putting too much strain on joints or muscles. It also helps reduce stress and anxiety levels by promoting relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises and meditation techniques like mindfulness meditation.
Master Ya Jun demonstrated some of the movements in each form during their session at the courthouse steps.
If you are interested in joining this free Tai Chi group at Georgia Southern University, visit their webpage today to learn more about their classes or how you can participate online if you cannot attend in person.
In conclusion, practicing Tai Chi can be an excellent way to promote physical wellness while reducing stress levels for people of all ages. It’s important to remember that even though it may seem like an easy exercise routine to follow along with from home or attending virtual classes online, it’s still best to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program.
