Chicago Botanic Garden Spring 2019

Do you want to increase your range of motion, improve bal- ance, and increase energy? Tai chi could be the exercise for you. “Imagine you are oiling your joints, loosening things up,” said Gordon Lock, who has been teaching tai chi classes at the Chicago Botanic Garden for more than six years. “Your mind is really powerful. If you imagine things are, they will be.” e Garden began o ering tai chi in 1998, and students found that moving in such a uid way while surrounded by the rhythms of nature was a perfect t. e Garden now o ers 10 classes, including a new tai chi basics session on Saturdays. Student Barbara Rosenberg recently started taking classes at the Garden. “It is an amazing way of working out and an amazing way of getting your center,” she said. “It is movement meditation.” Lock is trained in the three major forms of tai chi, but teaches mainly in the Sun and Yang styles. Yang is the second old- est form of tai chi and the most popular globally. e Sun style is newer, and Say ahhhh to 20 years of tai chi at the Garden involves a more upright form, which is easier on the knees. e Garden is one of the few places in the area to o er Sun style. Tai chi was originally developed for self-defense, but its series of gentle, uid motions have become more Here are just some of the benefits of tai chi: The fluid motions are suitable for any age: Tai chi is easy on joints and muscles and requires only comfortable shoes and clothing. It promotes a mind-body connection: While students focus their minds on their sur- roundings, they discipline their bodies physically and reduce stress through controlled breathing. It’s a triple threat: Tai chi helps improve posture, strengthen muscles, and promote flexibility. Learn more chicagobotanic.org/wellness known for the physical and mental bene ts. Lock o ers a simple formula for students as they work on the gentle, relaxing exercise: “Remember your ABCs: alignment, breathing, and calm- ness (or concentration).” Wellness programs are generously supported by NorthShore University HealthSystem. Gordon Lock demonstrates the gentle, uid motions of tai chi. 30 chicagobotanic.org