The Statesboro Tai Chi Group gathered in front of the courthouse steps on Saturday morning to celebrate World Tai Chi Day and showcase the physical and mental health benefits of the practice. Led by Dr. Li Li, a kinesiology professor at Georgia Southern, the group meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays each week to practice Tai Chi.
Master Ya Jun from Atlanta joined the group for the performance, guiding participants through various movements in the 24 forms such as “Grasping the Bird’s Tail,” “Snake in the Grass,” and “Cloud Hands.”
Originally a martial arts practice focusing on hand-to-hand combat, Tai Chi has evolved over the years to promote wellness, balance, and strength. Dr. Li emphasizes the importance of Tai Chi in preventing falls, especially for the group’s predominantly older members aged between 65-85.
During their seven years of meeting, none of the 20+ participants have experienced serious illnesses, injuries or contracted COVID-19, much to Dr. Li’s amazement. Emily Franklin, a member of