An eight-week class called “Tai Chi for Beginners” will be offered at The Andover Community Hub, starting on Thursday, March 28, 4-5 PM.  This series will be led by William Halacy of Concord who began his study of tai chi, acupuncture and Asian medicine following his retirement as Concord’s Chief of Police.  Individuals with no previous experience with tai chi will learn how this ancient Chinese exercise regimen can prevent and/or remediate common health problems; those with some tai chi experience are welcome as well.

Originally developed for self-defense, tai chi has evolved into a graceful form of exercise that’s now used for stress reduction and a variety of other health conditions by people of all ages from teens through seniors.  It can be especially helpful to elderly participants who don’t get much other exercise in their lives. As Halacy says, “If you can sit, stand, and shrug your shoulders, you can do tai chi.”

By the end of the eight weeks, participants will be able to perform the preparatory tai chi exercise called Tai Chi Gong, as well as the first section of the traditional Yang style Tai Chi “Slow Se.”  Daily practice of these simple exercise movements can improve immune function, reduce stress and hypertension, and strengthen legs, back and abs; improve balance; prevent or relieve arthritis; improve sleep; and eliminate a number of musculoskeletal aches and pains.  The fee for the eight-week series is $75 and pre-registration is required at TheAndoverHub@nullgmail.com.