Have you been looking for a new fun way to relax and de-stress? There’s a program here at SUNY Cortland called “Tai Chi for Wellness” that you may want to consider checking out! Tai Chi is an excellent way to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. If you are interested in trying Tai Chi for the first time and seeing what it’s all about you can join Dr. Andy Fitz-Gibbons Tuesdays from 4:30–5:30 pm in the Old Main Main Foyer beginning on February 1.
SUNY Cortland students Alli Thielman and Allison Struk took a Tai Chi class with Dr. Fitz-Gibbons last semester. “Honestly, in the beginning, I felt a little weird about it but after learning about it and getting used to it, it was pretty nice relaxing, and a fun new experience,” said Alli after being asked about her overall experience. I also asked her if she had noticed any benefits or changes from practicing Tai Chi. She replied, “ Definitely balance, and it has really helped my breathing and with staying centered“. Alli said would recommend Tai Chi to her friends. “I definitely would I think everyone should try it. Even if you’re scared or unsure about it, it’s a very relaxing and unique experience everyone should try at least once.” Allison also had a good experience. She said, “Tai chi was a very positive experience for me. At first, I felt a little embarrassed because it was new to me, like nothing I’d ever done. Then, once I started getting into it I started experiencing some of the benefits I was reading about.” Then I asked her what benefits she noticed first. She replied, “Stress relief and generally feeling a lot calmer. Like right after doing it I felt stress-free for hours. I also felt a lot more balanced.”
Tai Chi consists of a series of very gentle physical exercises and stretches. It is very easy to get into for beginners. Tai chi is also known as “meditation in motion” which is why many people feel calm after practicing. Tai Chi has five principles. Relax, Body upright, Separate Weight, Flexible waist, and Beautiful Lady’s hand which refers to having the wrist kept straight from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. These five principles will guide you through the beginning of your Tai Chi wellness journey. Tai Chi is also said to help improve anxiety, depression, and improvements with cognition as well as help with managing chronic diseases. I asked Allison if she experienced any of the mental health benefits of Tai Chi. She replied, “Yes definitely. Since I was feeling a lot more stress-free, I was also experiencing decreased anxiety. That has been one of the biggest benefits for me when practicing Tai Chi.” So don’t hesitate! Try out Tai Chi for Wellness!