A new series of free Tai Chi classes for Juneau citizens, age 60 and older, is now open for registration, with the first class beginning on Tuesday, March 1, at 10 am. Led by Certified Instructor Glen Ray, the classes will take place each Tuesday and Thursday from 10-11 am for eight weeks at the Nugget Mall Community Room. People who are interested in registering for the class should contact Rick Hamby of Southeast Senior Services at 463-6181. Participants will be enrolled on a first come, first served basis.
The Tai Chi for Arthritis Program, as acknowledged by the Centers for Disease Control, has been shown to improve movement, balance, strength, flexibility, relaxation and to decrease pain and reduce the incidence of falls. Movements are performed at a higher stance to make it easier for older participants and those with arthritis. Developed by Dr. Paul Lam, the program utilizes Tai Chi’s Sun style for its ability to improve relaxation and its ease of use for older adults.
The Tai Chi classes are funded by a Health Promotion and Disease Prevention grant from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Senior and Disabilities Services. For more information, call 463-6181.
