Gain strength and balance through tai chi's calming movements

As the weather continues to get a little more brisk, head indoors and check out a fitness endeavor that is unique and works the mind, body and soul all at once.

Tai chi, which means "grand ultimate boxing," originated in China about 800 years ago. The sport has been modified over the centuries, with different branches that focus on different things. For example, the Taoist Tai Chi Society, with facilities in Arlington Heights, is designed to promote health and well-being for people of all ages.

"During the beginning session we teach the 108 moves - all of which are designed to promote balance, stretching and keeping the joints lubricated (through) repetition," instructor Lorren Beneke said.

As the class begins, the room is so quiet that your external thoughts just float away in a sea of concentration. The only sound after the instructions and questions at the beginning is the squeaking of gym shoes on the floor. Whether you are "strumming the Pei Pa" or "picking up the tiger," the focus on your movements is so calming that the word workout doesn't even seem to exist, even though it is very present and you are definitely working. The continuous movement in your arms and legs throughout the 1 hour session improves muscle tone, but you are also increasing your health in a substantial way.

"As slow as the movements are, the cardiovascular benefits are still present as well as the muscle strength," Beneke said. "Also, this form of tai chi is to activate your lymph nodes, which help your immune system."

At the start of the beginner session, the "routines begin at #1 and the class proceeds to get through as many movements as they can in one night. As the session continues each week, the start of the session is a review of what was learned the week before, which is extremely beneficial as it helps you to perfect what you had previously learned," he said. "Once everyone is comfortable with the prior movements, it is time to build on to new movements. After a few months, at the end of the session, all 108 movements are learned and the Continuing Class begins, which repeats the 108 movements twice and focuses on more advanced skills."

Beneke has been teaching tai chi for two years.

"I had been taking my master's and had to write on self-development and found tai chi. I found it to be a great stress reducer and one thing I really enjoyed, so I stuck with it," he said.

The thought of 108 movements might seem a little daunting, but don't worry, you won't be lost in this class. Beneke does a great job of explaining everything and is eager to answer any questions.

"Our motto is to show three times, do it with the class three times, an then let them try it on their own three times. But that number always varies," Beneke said.

And the names of the movements are so cool. How interesting is it to think that you will be learning movements like "Strike Ears With Fists," "Parting Wild Horse's Mane" and "Needle at Sea Bottom"? If the names in themselves catch your interest, the movements will grab you even more as you absorb more and more from each class. And it doesn't hurt that the calmness in the room is contagious.

Adding to the serenity and peacefulness of the class is the break where tea and snacks are served, giving people a chance to meet one another.

According to the Taoist Tai Chi Society, the aims and objectives include:

• To make Taoist Tai Chi internal arts and methods available to all

• To promote the health-improving qualities of Taoist Tai Chi internal arts and methods

• To promote cultural exchange

• To help others

The Taoist Tai Chi Society of the USA, Midwest Branch, a not-for-profit organization, offers classes in Chicago, Arlington Heights and Lombard. There is a $20 nonrefundable registration fee and then membership contributions for adults are $40 monthly, $100 quarterly or $400 annually. There are also sessions for young adults: for ages 13-17, the cost is $15 monthly or $60 a year, and ages 8-12 the costs are $10 monthly or $40 annually. However, minors are exempt if at least one parent member is in good standing. There are also student, family and senior citizen discounts. For details, check out illinois.usa.taoist.org. These prices allow you to go as many times a week as you would like.

Yes, it may be almost time to break out those heavier coats but trying something new that gets your body moving makes it seem a lot less cold.