Movement   

In this course, we will explore the structure and primary movements of the shoulders, arms and hands, and how they are connected to the entire skeleton and you as a complete human being. Each class features an exercise, or “lesson,” involving gentle movements done slowly with minimal effort, while paying attention to your own personal experience. You determine how big, how fast, or how “good” you do the exercises. You will be guided through enjoyable sequences, exploring and discovering ways of moving with spontaneity and awareness. You can think of these exercises as safe, fun puzzles for your nervous system and brain. Each lesson is designed to help you remember, learn, and create new patterns of behavior. You will be involved in your own process of learning. This course is ideal for all ages and abilities. You will increase your balance, reach, and ability to turn more easily, and reduce tension as you adjust and move with more comfort and ease.

NOTE: An OLLI waiver form must be signed prior to the first class. There will be no class meeting on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday January 15.

Learn a complete Tai Chi form for health and longevity that you can do anywhere, anytime, and that is adaptable for all ages, body types, and abilities. No previous experience is necessary. Reduce stress, improve balance, gain focus/concentration, relieve pain, and gain benefits galore from a 3,000-year-old Chinese movement form: Tai Chi. When you finish the six-week course, you will have three tools in your toolbox for dealing with change, transition and life in general. You will have the Tai Chi 17 form which includes movements from Yang Short Form, so you will be prepared to study further if you wish. You will have learned a sequence called Finished the Form, which you can use alone as a practice or as a warmup or cool down for other practices. You will gain a basic knowledge of Tai Chi/martial arts and how to promote health and mind/body awareness.

NOTE: An OLLI waiver form will need to be signed prior to the first class. There will be no class meeting on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday January 15.

This class is an introduction to Qigong and simple stretching patterns. Movements will be taught both as physical and energetic exercises and as methods for improving present moment awareness and mindfulness of subtle perceptions. No special clothing or experience is required.  Come as you are, ready to have fun with others! Although Qigong can be studied for a lifetime, this brief series will give you a taste of the practices. You will learn a set of simple movements you can integrate into your daily routine.  Students can access videos on my YouTube channel, and a DVD is available for purchase but is not required. The exercises will challenge and enhance your flexibility, balance, and coordination. Classes consist mostly of active movement. Students will sign a liability waiver prior to the first class.

NOTE: We will meet over Zoom and class will include social time with other students using breakout rooms. Since this is online, students must be prepared to take complete responsibility for their own physical well-being. Classes will not be recorded.