Carol Emerson Ken and I are happy to announce the recent promotions of eight of our students! They have all worked extremely hard and we are very proud of their accomplishments. Pictured left to right: Carol Emerson Shifu, purple belt Lynda Green, white belt Larry Fahrney, purple belt Joyce Schneider, white belts Patrice Passer, Marsha…
Carol Emerson The ancient practice of Tai Chi is growing in popularity. More and more I see Tai Chi classes offered at gyms, park departments and even yoga studios! Why is that? The fact is study after study has shown that a consistent Tai Chi practice makes us healthier, stronger and more well-balanced (physically and…
Carol Emerson Tai Chi is an ancient system of exercise that originated in the Taoist temples of China over 2000 years ago. The monks of the temples developed Tai Chi as a way to keep themselves physically fit while spending many hours in meditation and also as a means (they hoped) to obtain longevity, even…
Carol Emerson I am very pleased to announce that SaddleBrooke resident Regina Pang has been awarded the rank of Green Belt in the Ching Yi Kung Fu Tucson martial arts system (part of the Ching Yi Kung Fu Association, an international martial arts group). Regina has studied with me for over six years and has…
Carol Emerson Do you want to continue to live an active, healthy and independent life? Me too – that’s why I practice Tai Chi. First let’s look at the physical benefits. The slow, flowing movements gently coax our bodies to stretch and reach and increase our range of motion. The bent knee posture from which…
What is Tai Chi? Tai Chi is a series of individual dance-like movements that flow smoothly from one to another in a sequence. When it is performed, Tai Chi synthesizes elements of movement, mind and breath, making it a mind-directed moving exercise. With Tai Chi practice, the body becomes stronger and more supple. It could…
Carol Emerson I keep seeing the term “self-care” in magazine articles, books and social media these days and I’m really loving it. Of course, most of us pay very little attention to caring for ourselves; most of our effort goes to caring for others – spouses, children, pets, even the house gets a lot of…
Ken Emerson The hot days of summer have arrived and it’s time for some relaxing indoor activities. Tai Chi is a great way to relax while, at the same time, experiencing some gentle exercise, settling the mind and learning something new (and good for you!). The summer classes tend to be smaller so we are…
Ken Emerson Tai Chi, which has grown in popularity throughout the world, is typified by slow, deliberate repetitive movements and is based on coordination and relaxation rather than muscular tension. It is believed that focusing the mind solely on the movements helps to bring about a state of mental calm and clarity. In recent years…
Carol Emerson Tai Chi is a classical Chinese exercise of up to 108 rhythmical movements that benefit the heart, tone the muscles, improve balance and coordination, loosen the joints and bring the mind and body into harmony. It is one of the most recommended exercise methods for people as we age since it is not…