OLLI Fit Classes   

Something magical happens when we harness the power of our breath. The mind slows, the body relaxes, and we remember that we are part of something so much greater. This course will serve as a way to remember, as we combine these three powerful aspects of life—breath, meditation, and community. Each class will begin with a breathing exercise connected to simple seated movements to prepare the body and mind for guided meditation practice. Meditation will last about 20-25 minutes, after which we will share our experience with one another in breakout rooms. Sharing is an important part of the process, for meditation is different for everyone and no one experience is the same, nor is there a right or wrong way to meditate. This class offers a unique way to connect to your fellow human, realizing we all share much more in common than we think.

This movement-oriented class will combine seated, standing, and kneeling postures. Modifications will be given for most postures—the point of this hour is more about giving yourself time to breathe and move with your body than it is about doing a posture in a particular way. We will combine dynamic and static movements, simple mobility exercises with postures that help to build strength and stability. Props are highly encouraged—blocks, blankets, chairs, and straps, in addition to mats, will help give you great success if you find you have limits in a posture. Instruction on how to use these props will also be provided, so you can get comfortable enough to focus on your breath, the most powerful part of practice. Join us for a beautiful session connecting body, mind, and spirit.

Required materials: A yoga mat, 2 blocks; Recommended materials: A bolster & strap (could use a pillow & a belt)

In traditional Chinese medicine, the patient is expected to be an active participant in their own healing, not just a victim of disease. Strong believers that exercise is medicine, Qi-gong evolved over centuries to become the primary form of exercise therapy in traditional Chinese medicine. Medical Qi-gong exercises are considered superior to herbal medicine and acupuncture because patients learn to keep themselves healthy by cultivating a strong mind and body. With over 3,600 psychophysiological exercises, medical Qi-gong provides tools for everyone to participate actively in their own health. This course introduces students to the most popular exercise sets in a safe, progressive way. Learn from two top professors of traditional Chinese medicine at the University of Denver and Colorado Chinese Medicine University about evidence-based therapeutic exercises you can use in your own life.

Recommended text:  Chinese Medical Qigong Paperback – May 28,  2013 by Tianjun Liu (Editor), Xiao Mei Qiang (Editor)

Experience for yourself the accumulated wisdom of centuries with the timeless exercise of T'ai Chi. According to the Harvard Medical Health Publication, "Tai chi is often described as meditation in motion, but it might well be called medication in motion." Designed to be hands-on, this class will explore the principles and basic exercises in T'ai Chi and the growing body of evidence of its value in treating or preventing many health problems. This introduction to T'ai Chi Ch'uan is both practical and participative. These exercises can powerfully complement medical intervention. Modern studies have reported positive effects of Tai Chi on balance, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, cancer, COPD, heart disease, and depression. Many more studies are underway to explore the medical benefits of this mind/body exercise. Topics include global health care implications and applications in daily life.

Recommended text: The Harvard Medical School Guide to Tai Chi: 12 Weeks to a Healthy Body, Strong Heart, and Sharp Mind (Harvard Health Publication)

No class 1/19 for MLK Day.