In Balance Concepts, Inc.April 30, 2011 World Tai Chi Day
Hammond Museum Hosts World Tai Chi Day Festival
By Sifu David Cunniff
Tai Chi and Chi Kung (also known as Qigong) are ancient systems of exercise so beneficial to the mind and body that they are considered integral parts of Traditional Chinese Medicine. They feature slow, controlled breathing combined with gentle stretching movements that together harmonize the body, mind and spirit, producing a sense of wellbeing. Tai Chi has been proven to reduce stress and alleviate many ailments and injuries, while promoting balance and healing.
The public is invited to experience the powerful benefits of both ancient exercises on April 30, when the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden in North Salem, New York hosts the 11th annual World Tai Chi and Qigong Day (WTCQD) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
WTCQD, officially recognized by the World Health Organization and The United Nations, is celebrated in 65 nations, educating millions worldwide about the medical, wellness and mental health benefits of practicing Tai Chi and Chi Kung. The event begins at 10 a.m. in the earliest time zones and continues around the world as Tai Chi is performed at 10 a.m. in each time zone throughout the day.
In North Salem, Master Phil Sant and his students from the Hall
of the Gathering Dragons will open the WTCQD festival at 9:15 a.m.
with a Chi Kung exercise workshop. Any interested Tai Chi
practitioners can then join in the group performance of the Tai Chi
form at precisely 10 am.
Immediately following will be a dazzling performance, by adults and
children, of Chinese martial arts, including some rarely seen
displays of Ba Gua, the eight palm changes, the powerful health form
of Hsing Yi, and the ancient fighting forms of Kung Fu. In
addition, there will be demonstrations of some internal and external
weapon forms.
Also appearing at the festival will be the abbot of the Chuang Yen Monastery in Carmel, New York, discussing the health benefits of meditation. There will also be a number of other special guests and artists performing during the day. Come and see the beautiful traditional Lion Dance and the free flowing Chinese ribbon dance. For your listening pleasure, a special presentation of Chinese string and flute music will be performed. For children, there will be a craft area where visitors can make dragon puppets and learn origami.
The Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden is located at 28 Deveau Rd., North Salem. Contact the museum at 914.669.5033, or visit it online at www.hammondmuseum.org. For more information about this event, contact Master Phil Sant of the Hall of the Gathering Dragons, Brewster, NY, at 845.278.6449; contact Sifu David Cunniff of In Balance Tai Chi Studio, Katonah, NY, at DaveCunniff@comcast.net or 914.262.1478; or visit www.WorldTaiChiDay.org.
Photo Credit: HammondMuseum.org
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