Practitioners swear by modern benefits of ancient arts

Practitioners swear by modern benefits of ancient arts

Womad festival goers taking part in the free tai chi classes.
SUPPLIED
Womad festival goers taking part in the free tai chi classes.

Nowadays finding the right work-life balance can be hard to do.
For people wanting to relax and unwind from the compounding stresses of their busy lives, Tai chi and Qigong may be right for you.
Often referred to as ‘moving meditation’ people who practise the ancient arts swear by their modern benefits

Womad campers getting into tai chi during a free class at the 2018 festival .
SUPPLIED
Womad campers getting into tai chi during a free class at the 2018 festival .

The Taranaki Tai Chi Chuan Association has been providing this unique system of health and self defence for near on 30 years and is involved in a number of community initiatives to encourage people into learning Tai Chi.
“It is certainly pleasing to see so many people of all ages and walks of life now engaging in this gentle fitness,” the associations Selina Mackie said.

The association currently runs classes across the region that focus on bringing the gentle but strengthening state of fitness to anyone who is keen to learn. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced student simple flat shoes and comfy clothes are all you need to give them a go.
On April 21 to 22 it will be hosting the director and principal instructor of Auckland’s Wushu Culture Association, Orlando Garcia.  Garcia will be swinging New Plymouth’s way to run three workshops at the Highlands Intermediate Hall.
Depending if you choose to take part in one or all three of the workshops you can expect to capture basic postures and theories and learn more about traditional Chinese medicine. Registration is open on both mornings from 9am and a shared lunch will take place between Sessions One and Two on Saturday.
For people who want to relax some more, head to the Kunming Garden lawn at in Brooklands Park for the World Tai Chi Day at 10am on Saturday April 28.  Hosted by the Taranaki Tai Chi Chuan Association, everyone is welcome to take part in the free live demonstration to celebrate.

Christine Walsh Stuff

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