As a cool breeze gently pushes against your body, you settle into a steady, deliberate sequence, keeping your left foot planted as you ground the ball of your right foot behind you, and your right arm extends forward to chest height. Your left arm rises in a gentle arc, bending softly above your head, as steady breathing guides each controlled shift in weight and form. With every movement performed in unhurried precision, Tai Chi reveals itself as an ancient Chinese martial art that promotes balance of both mind and body.
Each year, practitioners around the world gather to celebrate World Tai Chi and Qigong Day, a global event that begins in Samoa and New Zealand and moves westward across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas before concluding in Hawaii. Since its founding in 1999, the event has been held annually on the last Saturday of April in communities around the world – now including participants in more than 80 countries. The unifying theme, “One World, One Breath,” reflects the harmony and connection the practice strives to create worldwide.
On the morning of April 25th, members of the Palencia Tai Chi community gathered to take part in this global celebration. Instructor and Palencia resident Ron Cullum reflected on the spirit of the event, saying, “In a world full of conflict and contention, it is a fortifying experience to be part of a peaceful, sharing, and unifying event that cuts across political, religious, and ethnic differences among all people.”
The morning featured participatory exercises along with individual and group demonstrations that showcased the grace, discipline, and artistry of Tai Chi and Qigong. Through forms, or tàolù, the traditional term for these choreographed sequences, participants demonstrated the slow, intentional movements and deep concentration. Colorful costumes, flowing fan routines, and even a pair of exciting sword demonstrations further highlighted both the expressive and martial arts roots of this ancient practice. For their performance, Palencia Tai Chi instructor “Kiko” Beaton led the group in a dramatic performance of the Yang Long Form in the classical style, demonstrating the slow, deliberate movements and focus that characterize Tai Chi training. Their meticulously trained form demonstrated how it encourages a journey of self-awareness by teaching students to better understand and control their movements, breathing, and energy.
While developing proficiency requires patience and dedication, the rewards can last a lifetime. As reflected in the Palencia gathering, Tai Chi and Qigong are practiced by millions worldwide for their physical, mental, and emotional benefits. The exercises are known to improve balance, flexibility, posture, and concentration, while also reducing stress and encouraging mindfulness and relaxation.
The Palencia Fitness Center currently offers three Tai Chi and Qigong classes on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. For the summer, they plan to host a Tai Chi workshop for beginners, giving newcomers an opportunity to explore the practice in a welcoming environment.
