How it helps
The martial art of tai chi is recommended because of the following positive effects on health:
Promotion of relaxation and reduction of stress.
Improved lung capacity.
Improved function of the digestive system.
Enhancement of cardiovascular and respiratory function.
Improved balance and posture.
Prevention of falls.
Increased flexibility and range of motion of joints.
Reduction of pain.
Reduced blood pressure.
Improved coordination.
Increased muscle strength.
Increased physical confidence.
Improved sleep.
In addition, a study published in April by the Journal of the American Geriatric Society reported that after 16 weeks of tai chi classes, the immune response of older people to chickenpox and shingles surged by 40 percent.
-The Mayo Clinic, The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability (ncpad@uic.edu), AARP (), and ArthritisFoundation ()
Classes and information
Free tai chi classes, 7:15-8:15 a.m. Tuesdays, Denver
Botanic Gardens, 1005 York St. Also, AARP Fitness Walks, 7-9 a.m. through August. No class will be held July 3. 720-865-3500,
Tai chi classes, 9:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays, at Wheat Ridge Senior/Community Center, 6363 W. 35th Ave. The drop-in fee is $3 per class. Call 303-205-7500.
The Tai Chi Project conducts various classes throughout the metro area. Call 303-744-7676;
Qigong classes, 7 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, various locations, taught by Marty Chapman, senior qigong instructor. Call Life Council for locations, 303-691-0093;
Yu Xiang Tseng, known as Master Chen, is a Taoist priest who practices various healing arts. He grew up in China and trained from the age of 6 at Wu Dang Mountain,
moving to the United States 17 years ago. He lives in Fort Collins, where he is president of Chi for Longevity Inc., runs the Association for Chinese American Enrichment, directs Wu Dang Cultural Studies and hopes to build a monastery. More at 970-482-3201; or
