Looking for a fresh way to move, recharge and feel better this summer?

Qijing Yue brings more than four decades of Tai Chi and martial arts experience to Hunters Woods Plaza, leading a welcoming outdoor class where people of all ages and experience levels can build strength, find calm, move at their own pace and connect with neighbors.

Since 1997, she has taught hundreds of students the benefits of this powerful body-mind practice. She has also competed in Tai Chi nationally and internationally, representing the U.S. in competition, and is a certified Health Qigong instructor, Registered Yoga Teacher and Ph. D. mathematician.

Her thoughtful guidance helps students build balance, focus and body-mind connection through each movement. No experience or equipment needed. Just wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes, then come ready to move, breathe and try something new.

Why Tai Chi?

Tai Chi combines slow movement, breathing and focus to support both body and mind. It is gentle enough for beginners, adaptable for different fitness levels and powerful enough to improve balance, flexibility, strength and overall well-being.

Qijing has taught students from age 10 to 90, which is part of what makes Tai Chi so inviting. You can move at your own pace and still feel the benefits.

Practicing outside adds another boost: fresh air, morning light and a calmer start to the day.

“Exposure to morning sunlight resets your internal biological clock,” Qijing explains. “Combining the mindfulness of Tai Chi with natural outdoor light and fresh air helps you have a peaceful mind and better sleep at night.”

Tai Chi may help support:

• Reduced anxiety and stress
• Better balance, flexibility and muscle strength
• Improved sleep quality
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduced risk of falls in older adults
• Relief from chronic pain
• More energy, endurance and agility
• A greater overall sense of well-being

What to Expect

Each class begins with a gentle warm-up to wake up the body. Then Qijing guides participants through Tai Chi movements at an approachable pace, with a focus on calming the mind, strengthening the body and improving balance and coordination.

“This class will help you build a foundation for your future practice,” Qijing says.

Give it one class and you may find yourself looking forward to the next session.

Join the Class

Do not let the summer pass without giving Tai Chi a try.

Qijing’s free, outdoor Tai Chi class meets on Saturdays now through August 1 from 9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Hunters Woods Plaza. If it rains, the class moves inside to RCC Hunters Woods.

No registration required; all ages welcome, free to participate. Just show up.

Come as you are, move at your own pace and see how good Tai Chi can feel.