Written By Jan Sims
MIDDLESEX CENTRE - Residents of Middlesex Centre, interested in getting into the flow of things, we welcomed to an Open House at the Komoka Community Centre to learn more about Tai Chi.
The municipality is offering an introductory Tai Chi program this fall run in conjunction with the Canadian Tai Chi Academy.
“People who sign up through the recreation department come to a class in Komoka, and we also do a similar class in Ilderton,” says Andrew Moore from the Canadian Tai Chi Academy.
The classes run for 14 weeks and are geared to adults. “It’s an exercise and relaxation type of class for people to work on improving their health,” said Moore.
There are a number of benefits to practicing Tai Chi including relaxation. “They come looking for stress reduction. That’s a common reason,” says Moore. Improved movement is also a factor for aging joints and limbs. “A lot of people are noticing they’re getting stiffer and have a loss of flexibility, adds Moore.
The classes are aimed at beginners. “If you’re able to walk a reasonable distance, Tai Chi is probably acceptable,” says Moore. Because many people may be new to the practice, they shouldn’t worry about memorizing the moves. “We want people to follow the rest of the group. We bring experienced people to come on the edges so the new people can follow people who have already done it,” says Moore.
