A tai chi programme that has been specifically designed for children is being held at a school in Marlborough. Students and teachers all are taking part in the sessions that is collaboration between Paul Lam and instructor Nancy Sherwood.

Blenheim School has made its hall available for the classes, which are being run to mentor children, caregivers and parents. The programme has already received a donation of $1050 from KiwiSport, in the initiative that has been undertaken to improve the participation of children in new activities. The tai chi classes would also help in improving the fitness levels of children.

Ms. Sherwood, the instructor, stated that there are many positives that come from tai chi, apart from improving fitness levels; it is also known to improve concentration levels. Tai chi also helps in improving balance and increasing the coordination between the mind and the body.

Ms. Sherwood adds that the focus involved in tai chi really helps in calming down a person and helps in the mind relaxing. One of the students involved in the programme, 11-year-old Gina Twidle exclaims that the classes are a lot of fun, when she is quizzed about, how’d she find the tai chi classes.

Unlike common belief, tai chi is not fast and is not like karate, it usually involves the stretching of muscles and helps people experience a calming effect.