WESTMINSTER, Vt. – Beginner tai chi, on Tuesdays, at 10:30 a.m., starts on Jan. 20, at Westminster Institute, 3534 U.S. Route 5 in Westminster, Vt. It seems tai chi is everywhere now. So, where did these particular classes originate?
Imagine an award-winning martial artist, a lifelong qigong master, now aging, posing the question, “How can I be of service to the older adult?” Now imagine he survives a nasty motorcycle accident. He still teaches, but no longer competes. Approaching his best student, he says, “Will you join me in a venture to bring high-quality tai chi to the older adult?” The answer is “yes,” so they begin training teachers and offering classes at senior centers and recreation centers in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. In 2016, classes make it to Vermont, at Westminster Institute, under the auspices of Westminster Cares.
This is a thumbnail origin story of Oriental Healing Arts Association (OHAA). Founders Gene Gaudreau and Jim Winner dreamed the dream, and set OHAA in motion. Tai chi is slow, mindful movement with a host of health benefits. Sometimes called meditation in motion, it is gentle but powerful, perfect for the older adult.
The beginner class starts up on Jan. 20, taught by senior instructor Leslie Lassetter. Cosponsored by OHAA and Westminster Cares, OHAA tai chi is senior safe, designed for the 50 and older crowd. The window to join this ongoing class is Jan. 20 – Feb. 14. Classes are ongoing, because first moves learned are added to as the course continues, like a string of pearls. Each new move enhances the former and prepares for the next.
For those who cannot stand for an hour, seated tai chi meets Tuesdays, at 12:15 p.m. Enrollment for the seated class is open any time. There is a sliding-scale cost for these classes. The first class is free.
Come. Join in. Wear comfortable, loose clothing and clean, nongripping, indoor shoes. Search “Tai Chi with Leslie” on YouTube for a preview.
For more information, call 802-722-3607 or email WeCares@sover.net.