Up and Coming Weekly is a weekly publication in Fayetteville, NC and Fort Bragg, NC area offering local news, views, arts, entertainment and community event and business information.
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/551165
AUGUST 5-11, 2015 UCW 11 WWW.UPANDCOMINGWEEKLY.COM Winners will be announced at our 18th Annual Best of Fayetteville Awards Party being held at the new and improved on September 15 th September 16 th Best of Fayetteville Edition UP & COM I NG W EEKLY 'S The Cape Fear Botanical Garden offers much more than beautiful plants; it is a center of growth and learning for the entire community. The garden features a variety of programs and classes that appeal to people of all ages. One such class is the Tuesday Tai Chi For Health class. Tai Chi is an ancient martial art that originated in China. Unlike most marital arts it does not focus on harsh and aggressive punches or kicks. It focuses on gentle and flowing movements. The idea behind the martial art is that a small amount of force applied correctly can effectively deflect attacks. It is now also popular for its physical health benefits in addition to self-protection. Despite the calming and relaxing nature of Tai Chi, it has many real physical benefits for anyone and everyone. Rich Martin the class instructor noted, "Tai Chi is beneficial for all, because of its focus on gentle movement through complete range of motion while maintaining good postural alignment and structural integrity. It is an exercise form that can be practiced at any level of fitness." Despite the relaxing benefits and gentle nature of Tai Chi, it shouldn't be taken lightly. It is both a martial art and a way to exercise. For first timers, Martin describes a typical class as, "A peaceful, relaxing workout, but definitely a workout. Class has many meditative aspects, lots of movement, some stretching and it is lots of fun. Participants can expect to sweat while doing movements that may look too easy to cause a sweat. They can expect to challenge their coordination and balance." His experience with Tai Chi began with a focus on the martial arts aspect, but he has a fascination with and keen understanding of the medical benefits. Martin described some of the proven health benefits of Tai Chi as, "… increased balance and stability, improved circulation, reduction of knee pain, improved flexibility, reduced blood pressure, relief from back pain, better posture, better oxygenation and stress reduction." Group classes can be intimidating at first, but despite the presence of other people, practicing Tai Chi is an incredibly personal experience. Tai Chi is challenging, and the only one looking at your form is the teacher in order to better guide you. "Each participant will find their own personal challenges while practicing Tai Chi. For some this is learning the choreography, for others it is slowing down while others may find some of the movement sequences to be challenging," Martin said. Tai Chi is naturally focused on a gentle and relaxing flow. Having the class in the serene setting of the Cape Fear Botanical Garden makes it all the easier to forget the outside world and all the stresses that come with it. "The natural beauty of the garden enhances the classes with its serene and picturesque vistas," Martin said. "Depending on the weather, we either practice inside the beautiful facility, or outdoors. When outside, we are often overlooking the Cypress Pond. Thanks to the large windows, even when practicing indoors, we are able to witness the seasonal beauty." Tai Chi for Health is held on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Single classes are $15 for members and $17 for non-members. Pre-registration is necessary and can be done by calling 910-486-0221. For more information, visit www.capefearbg.org. The Cape Fear Botanical Garden is located at 536 N. Eastern Blvd. Center Yourself and Get Healthy With Tai Chi at the CFBG by ERINN CRIDER Rich Martin demonstrates movements like those used in his Tai Chi Class at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. ERINN CRIDER, Staff Writer. COMMENTS? Editor@upandcom- ingweekly.com.