ALBANY — Today, most people recognize Tai Chi as the fluid and graceful exercise that originated in China centuries ago. The secret of its longevity is that it feels as good to do as it is elegant to watch. Its efficient movement and structure translate well to athletic pursuits and to the movements of daily living.
Tai Chi also has a surprisingly wide array of health benefits: better balance, stress relief, boosting the immune system, improved sleep, and enhanced mood and mental acuity.
The four partners of the Asian Arts Group have been teaching Tai Chi and Qi Gong at their center in Albany for a decade. Each partner has more than 20 years of training and experience in Tai Chi, ranging from the Chen style—the oldest and original form of Tai Chi—to special programs for managing diabetes or arthritis. Their goal has been to provide a place where people can learn and enjoy these arts, and to foster a lively local community with strong connections to the resources and larger Tai Chi community worldwide. Asian Arts regularly hosts workshops by top-quality, nationally and internationally recognized masters.
Asian Arts is committed to helping people learn. All the partners—Marta, John, Lorraine and Troy—have worked to educate the community at health and wellness events, and in programs for schools and business organizations. Classes are small, with attention focused on students’ individual needs. People of almost any fitness level can practice Tai Chi; even short-time practitioners notice themselves moving with more ease and grace, and, after a practice, feel refreshed and alert.
The Asian Arts Group center, located at 28 Essex St. in Albany, is easy to reach and has a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Classes are offered daytime and evenings. For more information, call 489-1458 or visit www.AsianArtsGrp.com.
— Asian Arts Group
