Tai Chi students perform at Branson RecPlex

Local T’ai Chi instructor Bob Goodwin and several of his students performed some of their routines and forms at the Branson Rec Plex on Saturday, April 26, a great opportunity for shoppers at the Branson Community Garage Sale to observe and ask questions. 

Referred to as “The Art of Letting Go,” T’ai Chi may appear “easy” compared to some movement or martial arts forms, but closer observation reveals that it involves valuable sensory and balance skills. T’ai Chi is a moving meditation that helps enhance relaxation, concentration, coordination and mind-body connection to promote peace, health and tranquility. It can aid with circulation, deep breathing, postural realignment and kinesthetic awareness. The movements are practiced in a slow, flowing, balanced manner that can be more physically challenging than it appears. 

Goodwin has taught in Europe, Canada and the United States for numerous universities and theatres, and among his many accomplishments and professional associations, he co-founded the St. Louis T’ai Chi Ch’uan Association in 1979. He is well-known in Los Angeles, California, for his work teaching film fighting, including serving as Christian Bale’s fight trainer for “Batman Begins,” and teaching T’ai Chi to Robert Downey Jr., and Jamie Foxx for “The Soloist.” 

Persons interested in improving their overall health and well-being through T’ai Chi are invited to check out classes offered by Goodwin at The Grove Christian Church, located just off Bee Creek Rd. in Branson. Classes are one hour long and offered on-going; the first class is FREE and there are regular reviews of beginning techniques, making it possible to join at various times. The weekly 6 p.m. session on Mondays includes principles of empty stepping, balance, relaxation, weight distribution and alignment; a 7 p.m. advanced class incorporates T’ui Shou two-person sensitivity exercises. 

For more information, contact Bob at bob@filmfightingla.com.