I discovered something new this week, Tai Chi. Although new to me, it’s been practiced for 1,000 years, dating back to the Song Dynasty in China.

I had an opportunity to visit a Landrum Tai Chi class and what I discovered was a gentle exercise, often described as “moving meditation.”  As I watched the members going through the motions, only the sound of movement and breathing broke the silence. It was the opposite paradigm of how I think of exercise.

Ed Kan is the friendly instructor.  He tells me, “Tai Chi and Qui Gong started as martial arts. They’re now practiced to improve health and well-being. My classes have from 15-30 moves, but there are more advanced exercises depending on one’s ability.  My classes are low impact and put minimal stress on muscles and joints.”

Ed jokes about the name Qui Gong. “It’s a good word for Scrabble,” he smiles.

Then he describes the difference between the two exercise forms.

“In Tai Chi you memorize the movements. It is something that can be done alone or in a group. In China you see people exercising in parks, often in the morning before going to work. Qui Gong is practiced with a leader and you follow the leader’s movements.”

What I saw and heard interested me, so I turned to the internet to learn more.  Apparently, many people practice Tai Chi to improve their health and well-being. Scientific research is under way to learn more about how Tai Chi works and its possible effects on health, chronic diseases and conditions for which it might be helpful.

The members in the class were anxious to share with me their enthusiasm and reasons for starting Tai Chi.

When Nan Keenan called me and invited me to the class, she shared, “I had undergone anesthetic several times for surgeries. My brain just seemed foggy and I was looking for something to help me focus better. I found Tai Chi and have been participating ever since.”

Another member had a knee brace when she started Tai Chi. She related that she’s been able to build her strength and flexibility and no longer needs the brace.

The newest member was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. She explained that it has helped with her balance and strength. They all agree that they enjoy the exercise, and it helps them concentrate, putting aside distracting thoughts.

All classes are held at the Landrum Presbyterian Church in the Community Room and everyone is welcome. A new Tai Chi group starts Thursday, April 2 at 10 a.m. The Tai Chi class lasts for an hour and a half. A Qui Gong class starts Tuesday, April 7 at 2 p.m. and lasts for an hour. This class can be done standing or sitting.

The first class is free so you have the opportunity to decide if you want to make an eight-week commitment. Classes have a $5 fee each week. For an introduction to Qui Gong, stop by the Landrum Library, Thursday, March 26 at 6:30. Ed will be there demonstrating this gentle exercise. For more information, contact Ed at 828-899-0038.