Local Louis Bruneau begins his Tai Chi-Qigong workshop on September 9th. The practice is geared towards students finding an inner balance within themselves while achieving an improved level of physical fitness.
Havelock resident Louis Bruneau began his journey into the world of Tai Chi-Qigong when he was in his twenties. What began as a quest to find an outlet through which to express himself ended with his practice of Tai Chi-Qigong. Last year, Bruneau hosted a series of workshops that ran the duration of 12 weeks, allowing his students to progress through one of the first levels of Tai Chi-Qigong. This year, he will do the same, offering classes in Huntingdon, Ormstown and St-Chrysostome. An experienced instructor, Bruneau is certified by the National Institute of Chinese Medicine, an organization that is certified by China itself.
Both Tai Chi and Qigong are known as energy arts—they are considered to be effective forms of exercise in China. (The former translates to “long axis” while the latter literally translates to “life energy work”). Bruneau offers a Tai Chi-QiGong practice, combining both forms of expression to create a more fulfilling experience for his students.
The practice of Tai Chi is believed to have many health benefits. “A growing body of carefully conducted research is building a compelling case for Tai Chi as an adjunct to standard medical treatment for the prevention and rehabilitation of many conditions commonly associated with age,” states Harvard Medical School’s assistant professor of medicine Peter M. Wayne. The best part? Almost anyone can practice, regardless of his or her current state of physical fitness. As for Qigong, it is believed that the practice of this art can inhibit the vulnerability of cells, thereby preventing sickness, as well as aid in the battle against chronic ailments such as arthritis, asthma, diabetes and hypertension. The benefits of both Tai Chi-Qigong are numerous for practitioners—especially those who experience limited mobility and are looking for a way to both exercise and meditate.
Classes will begin in September, with a demo being hosted in Huntingdon at the Salle Alfred Langevin on September 9th at 6 P.M. Bruneau will also host a demonstration at Ormstown’s MacDougal Hall (September 14th at 6 P.M.) and St. Chrysostome’s City Hall (September 15th at 5:30 P.M.). Please contact Bruneau for class times at 450-827-2226.
