Around 60 years ago, I studied karate (gung mao gung fu) at the old Duncan YMCA on Chicago’s West Side under the tutelage of 7th degree master – Walter Borkowski. After pushing myself (and being pushed) I attained a green belt. I bordered on brown but I quit.

Fast forward some 30 years. I signed up for classes in tai chi and qi gong. I did this for about a year. These gentler disciplines were much easier to handle. We have probably all seen the gatherings in Chinese gardens of (often older) adults moving slowly from side to side – in synchrony – moving out and moving in. Tai chi is considered a form of “moving meditation.” Slow breaths and gentle movements that are arguably patterned after movements found in nature. Tai chi can be practiced by anyone – even those with disabilities. There are health benefits – for mind, body and spirit. Tai chi helps with balance as well.

Qi gong (pronounced chee-gong) is more of a mental exercise that does not require a lot of movement but does require a lot of concentration. Qi gong involves a repetition of movement – usually (in my experience) hand movements which capture energy, visualizes strength and enhances breathing, calm and relaxation.

These days, when I go to the local fitness center, I sometimes practice a few – very rudimentary – blocks and hand movements (my legs ain’t what they used to be) and then some gentle qi gong breathing. I do this at home as well. It helps with balance – though each day is a new day. Since there’s a lot of “aging” going around, there may be benefit for those reading this to check out these disciplines — tai chi and qi gong. There’s literally no downside. . . . .