World Tai Chi Day at IVC

April 4, 2005

The college celebrates World T’ai Chi/Qigong Day on Sat., April 30 in the Student Quad from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The public invited to participate in a group exhibition of this ancient Chinese exercise. Novices, enthusiasts and earnest practitioners are encouraged to participate. Parking and attendance are free.

Practitioners of this ancient Chinese exercise will teach simple-to-follow movements, stretching and warm up exercises. No experience is necessary. Teachers will also provide informative materials on the health and wellness benefits of both T’ai Chi and Qigong.

T’ai 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 T’ai Chi and Qigong can effectively improve overall health and well-being,” said JoAnna Gee Schoon, an instructor at Irvine Valley. “We are part of a global event, and it’s a great way to find out about the effectiveness of these ancient, health-promoting disciplines.”

Schoon, who is a U.S. National Champion for the Wushu Kungfu Federation, describes T’ai 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.

More than 200 people participate in Irvine Valley’s T’ai Chi Day each year. For more information, contact Schoon at (949) 494-7110 or at justtaichi@hotmail.com.