Texas side to offer free tai chi for seniors at the Southwest Center
TEXARKANA, Texas — A new way for seniors to slow down and calm their minds, as well as to improve their joint health and balance, will be available beginning Thursday.
The city Parks and Recreation Department is bringing people 55 and older the ancient art of tai chi with classes at the Southwest Center three afternoons a month.
Tai chi uses slow, kung fu-like martial arts movements to promote physical well-being and mindfulness, said instructor Kasandra Guilbeau, program director for the Texarkana Regional Center on Aging.
The movements she will teach at the Southwest Center will be especially beneficial for people with arthritis and those who wish to prevent falls by improving their balance.
“It’s all about meditation and breathing,” Guilbeau said, adding that she often plays soft music or nature sounds during classes to create a sense of comfort and ease.
People of all physical ability levels can participate in the class standing or sitting, and there is no pressure.
“I want you to do what’s comfortable for you and safe,” Guilbeau said.
Anyone can drop in to any of the classes without having attended any previously. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing they can move in. Guilbeau said that when weather permits, she likes to hold classes outdoors.
Tai chi developed in China in about the 12th century as a practice for fighting or self-defense, usually without weapons, according to the American Tai Chi and Quigong Association. Over time, people began to use tai chi for health purposes, as well.
Guilbeau said she first learned tai chi in 2012 as part of her work for the Center on Aging. She thought it was too slow for her at first, but over the years she has become a convert to the ancient practice, which she credits with benefiting her mental health and helping her sleep well.
“I love it so much,” she said.
The tai chi classes are free of charge, and participants must register at the Southwest Center, 3222 W. Seventh St. Classes are 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays, except the second Thursday of the month, beginning Feb. 6.
For more information, call the Southwest Center at 903398-3978.