April 10, 2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 10, 2003

World Tai Chi & Qigong Day this Saturday At IVC

Public invited to participate in group exhibition of ancient Chinese exercise.

IRVINE, CAIrvine Valley College invites the public to participate in the Fifth Annual World Tai Chi Day celebration on Saturday, April 12 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in front of the Student Services Center. Everyone is welcome.

Practitioners of the ancient Chinese exercises will teach simple-to-follow movements, stretching and warm up exercises, and will provide informative materials on the health and wellness benefits of both Tai Chi and Qigong. Participants are invited to take part in Tai Chi group exercises, no experience is necessary and the event is free. All styles and practitioners are encouraged to attend.

Tai Chi combines the practice of seeking balance in change with traditional Chinese medicine. Its movements are based in the martial arts and each slowly executed block, strike or kick targets a specific body part to direct healing relief for illness or injury.

We would like the public to learn how the practices of Tai Chi and Qigong can effectively improve overall health and well-being, said JoAnna Gee Schoon, an instructor at Irvine Valley and local organizer of this years celebration.

Schoon, who is a US National Champion for the Wushu Kungfu Federation, describes Tai Chi as moving meditation that promotes relaxation, lower blood pressure, improved circulation and muscle tone. It is said to direct the mind and spirit in creating harmony and balance, she added.

For more information, contact JoAnna Gee Schoon at (949) 494-7110 or at justtaichi.8K.com. Irvine Valley College is located at 5500 Irvine Center Drive, on the corner of Jeffery Road and Irvine Center Drive in Irvine.