LEWISTON – HealthSteps at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center will begin classes on tai chi as part of its fall specialty program beginning Monday, Sept. 8.

Qigong (also spelled chi kung) and tai chi are related mind/body/breath movements systems from ancient China. Both have been shown to reduce stress, improve balance, promote rejuvenation and cultivate peace of mind.

Healing qigong and tai chi are practiced to compliment other therapies such as acupuncture, physical therapy or Western medicine. In addition, athletes and martial artists often practice qigong and/or tai chi to enhance their athletic performance.

Taught by Ian Gamble, the classes will explore the principles of healing qigong and tai chi to create a program of powerful, relaxing, energizing, calming movements complete in themselves or as a foundation for further study.

Three sections of tai chi will be offered, ranging from an introductory class to advanced technique instruction. The classes will take place on Tuesdays in the Lepage Conference Center, 99 Campus Ave. Tai chi fundamentals, an introductory class, will be held from 7 to 8:10 p.m.

Tai chi intermediate is for students who have completed the fundamental class or have three months of experience and will be held from 5:45 to 7 p.m. Tai chi advanced form II will examine movement forms and technique and will be held from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m.

The classes are offered to HealthSteps members for $14. Community members only interested in tai chi classes will pay a fee of $112. Call HealthSteps at 777-8898 for more information or to register.