Read more: Local, Health, Tai Chi, Chinese Practice, Exercise, Stress Relief, Balance, Body and Mind, Coordination, Focus, Energy, Improvements, Cloud Hands, Meditation, Qigong, Darlene Basto, Muscle, Movement, Motion, Core
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HANCOCK -- The lesson always starts off with alignment. The body, breath, and mind all become one.
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese practice that began as a form of self-defense thousands of years ago. It made its way to America in the 1960s and today, Tai Chi is predominantly used in the form of exercise.
“Tai Chi is like a moving meditation. I teach both Tai Chi and Qigong. Qigong is an older type of Tai Chi and it’s more of a standing meditation,” said instructor Darlene Basto.
Basto has been teaching the methods of Tai Chi and Qigong for the past few years, but she has practiced them since the late '70s and says they took a lot of time to master.
“The traditional way was not as easy to learn. This way, people find, is much more accessible. I call it gateway learning,” Basto said.
Tai Chi and Qigong are all about bringing your mind and body into balance. A common movement called "cloud hands" helps with coordination and it can keep you focused.
Tai Chi and Qigong can also relieve stress, improve muscular strength, and increase energy.
The subtle motions also help strengthen the body’s core, and it helps maintain a strong balance especially as you start getting older. Many who have taken the class say they have seen a noticeable difference in how they feel.
“I enjoy the class tremendously. I enjoy doing the moves. It helps to ground me, and it kind of brings everything together for me, and it helps me get clarity,” said Ann Gasperich.
The next class starts May 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. in Baraga at the KBOCC Niwin Akeaa Gym. The cost is $20 per person and $50 per family. For more information, e-mail Darlene Basto at northstarqtc@gmail.com.
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