‘One World… One Breath’: World Tai Chi And Qigong Day Set For April 24

From Press Release:

COOKEVILLE – “One world… one breath.”

That’s the motto of a global event happening April 24 – World Tai Chi and Qigong Day. Locals will be participating at Cane Creek Recreation Center starting at 10 a.m. Admission is free.

“Participants will experience the simple movements and flow that relax you and cleanse your mind and body,” Sally Herren, Cookeville Leisure Services recreation programmer, said. “Going through the slow movements will clear and release your body of any tension it holds onto because of your emotions.”

The movements may be slow, graceful and seemingly simple. But make no mistake – those who practice Tai Chi and Qigong are getting a workout. Improving their health, too.

Herren has been working with long-time Cookeville Leisure Services Tai Chi instructor Nikki Desch, who has 40 years of experience in teaching the ancient Chinese meditative movements, to prepare for the event.

“It’s about peace, love, harmony and health,” Desch said.

Hundreds of cities in more than 80 nations on six continents participate annually at 10 a.m. in their time zone in an effort to educate people on the benefits of mind-body practices and provide an example of how the world can come together across racial, ethnic, religious and geopolitical borders to focus on personal and global health and healing.

“It is great exercise for our mind and body,” Desch said. “It helps with balance, endurance and flexibility.”

This year’s event marks the 12th held in Cookeville. In addition, Cookeville was the first Tennessee city to get a World Tai Chi and Qigong Day proclamation signed by the governor.

“This event is free for anyone who would like to participate and experience what Tai Chi and Qigong are like,” Herren said. “This is a perfect opportunity to try it out and, if you enjoy it, you can sign up for one of our regular sessions, which take place every six weeks – Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m., Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. and Fridays at 10 a.m.”

To learn more about World Tai Chi and Qigong Day, call 931-526-7393.