If you’ve walked past the Moose Jaw Public Library on a recent Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday morning, you likely noticed a group of people gathered on the front lawn, moving gracefully together to calming traditional music.
It’s as relaxing as it looks. Between the quiet music, the calm movements, and the chirp of nature, these drop-in tai chi classes are perfect for releasing stress.
In partnership with the library, the Moose Jaw Chinese Association Inc. has been offering tai chi from 9:30 to 11 a.m. throughout the month of May, meeting three times a week. The mornings are entirely free and welcome to everyone and anyone.
Because it is a low impact form of exercise, tai chi is actually great for all ages, as the movements are easy on the joints and muscles.
Katherine Liu leads the group through some beginner movements, featuring a series of slow, focused movements accompanied by deep breathing meant to create a form of meditation through movement.
It’s very good for one’s health, which is one reason the Chinese Association chose this particular martial art form to offer. Tai chi can help reduce stress, improve balance, and even help lower blood pressure.
It’s also a fun way to spend a morning in the park, enjoying the weather and seeing other people.
Participants are warned to wear comfortable clothing if they plan on taking part. Otherwise, there are no requirements to join in: no registration, no equipment, and no commitment to stay for the full two hours.
Saturdays are the most popular mornings, the group said, and since they gather outside in the grass, there’s always room for more interest.
Tai Chi in the Park will continue to run through until the end of the month, with morning sessions on May 25, 28, and 30. Further dates in June and July are in the works, and when they are finalized, they can be found on the library’s list of events on their website.
