On April 27, In Balance Tai Chi Studio, in Brewster, will invite the public to celebrate the 20th annual World Tai Chi and Qigong Day (WTCQD) with a presentation on qigong, a stretching and meditation workshop, a tai chi meditation and a demonstration of tai chi sword form.

“Tai chi and qigong—also known and pronounced as chi kung—are ancient systems of exercise so beneficial to the mind and body that they are considered integral parts of Traditional Chinese Medicine,” says Sifu David Cunniff, owner of In Balance Tai Chi Studio. “Each features slow, controlled breathing combined with gentle stretching movements that together harmonize the body, mind and spirit, producing a sense of overall well-being. Tai chi has been proven to reduce stress and alleviate many ailments and injuries, while promoting balance and healing.”

Officially recognized by the World Health Organization and the United Nations, WTCQD is celebrated in more 100 nations, Cunniff says. “This annual event has educated millions worldwide about the medicinal and mental health benefits of practicing tai chi and qigong. The positive healing energy begins at 10 a.m. in the earliest time zone and spreads around the world as tai chi is performed continuously throughout the day, beginning at 10 a.m. in each time zone.”

At In Balance, the day will begin at 9:15 a.m. with a brief discussion of qigong, followed by a 9:30 a.m. qigong stretching and meditation workshop, a 10 a.m. tai chi meditation and a sword form demonstration.

In continuing to promote well-being, In Balance is introducing several eight-week programs in tai chi and qigong, including Qigong for Health, a deep-breathing with stretching exercise that tones the body and calms the mind; Tai Chi for Beginners, which features slow, dance-like movements to develop balance and short-term memory; Tai Chi Jian Sword, classic jian sword form for all levels; and Zen Archery, which combines meditative qigong exercises with archery skills. Cunniff is a certified Team USA Level 2 archery instructor.

Class size for the programs is limited to six to eight students. Call for a schedule of programs and to reserve a space.

Cost: $120 per eight-week program. The Tai Chi Jian class fee costs an additional $20 for the practice jian sword. Location: In Balance Tai Chi Studio, 2505 Carmel Ave., Rte. 6 (near Drewville Road), Brewster, NY. For more info, call Sifu David Cunniff at 845.803.1992 or visit InBalanceTaiChi.com.