St. Mary's Epworth Crossing gives joint inflammation a spin and transforms movements of martial arts into pain relievers.
“Our purpose, our mission is to provide ‘body, mind, spirit’ preventative health and wellness programs for the community. So, it doesn’t have to be any affiliation with St. Mary’s. It’s about being available to the community.” Said Wellness Center Coordinator Helen EmgeShymanski.
This form of Chinese martial art is taught by local Tai Chi instructor Mike Goebel. Tai Chi Shuang is an ancient art created by the Sung family to help alleviate pain, improve balance and encourage meditation and relaxation.
The Wellness Center has been open for almost two years and its Tai Chi for Arthritis class is a new program that will last eight weeks. The class is not only for Arthritis patients, it can be taken by anyone who is looking to improve their mental health and balance. Experience is not necessary; all classes are designed for beginners.
The Wellness Center also offers drop-in classes, Monday through Friday. Contrary to the eight-week Tai Chi class, for yoga, Pilates, meditation and drumming signing up is not necessary but have a participation fee of $5, $8 or $10.
“We embrace new comers. That’s why we are here.” Said Shymanski.
Pre-registration ends June 11th but Tai Chi drop-in classes will still be held.
