LOCAL Tai Chi and Qi Gong teacher, Mary-Ann Pickett, is hosting an introductory session to the ‘calm and relaxing’ Chinese martial art.
‘An introduction to Tai Chi and Qi Gong’, will be held on Thursday 28th April in the main room at Melksham Town Hall, from 12pm to 1pm. The event will coincide with World Tai Chi and Qi Gong Day, a worldwide event normally held on the last Saturday of April.
“This presentation is about the benefits of this low impact, low cost way of exercising,” explains Mary-Ann who has been involved in mainstream physical exercise programmes for over 30 years. “With the opportunity to practice, sitting or standing, anyone attending the event will have a chance to enjoy an hour of calm and relaxation whilst feeling energised.
“My aim is to demystify Tai Chi and Qi Gong as I do appreciate that for some the use of Chinese words is already an obstacle and it’s a shame to miss out because of lack of knowledge.”
Explaining the background of Tai-Chi and its benefits, Mary-Ann says, “Gaining ground as a preferred subscribed exercise for the elderly, Tai Chi’s safety record and ease of practice are now well recognised. Combining traditional movements with modern therapeutic principles brings a powerful exercise programme enjoyed by millions of people worldwide.
“With regular enjoyable practice, Tai Chi brings about many health benefits, both physical and mental. Learning a new skill keeps the mind active, whilst the slow fluid movements ease sore joints and muscles, improving flexibility and building muscle gradually and balance is improved.
“These days when world events mean we are having to learn to live with increased uncertainty, many people are experiencing higher levels of anxiety in their day to day life.
“The normal challenges we face as we naturally age are compounded by this and now may be the right time to explore a fresh way to cope. With Tai Chi and Qi Gong the emphasis on the breath and inner stillness relieves stress and anxiety.”
About the venue, Mary-Ann says, “As our weather can’t be relied upon to hold this event outdoors, we have the next best venue in town. The main room in Melksham Town Hall is welcoming, affording plenty of fresh air and daylight. With disabled parking and access at the back of the building, the lift is a few steps away. As Linda Roberts, our town clerk says ‘The Town Hall is a welcoming public building for the use of the people of Melksham and its visitors’.”
For all other information about the event and the regular Tai Chi Club please contact Mary-Ann on 07711 871 750 or by email jmaolsen@icloud.com
Above: Mary-Ann Pickett with student Wendy Green
