Relieve some stress while soaking in some fresh air this June

Some may argue that nothing fights stress better than some fresh air and exercise. And the Ponca City Parks and Recreation Department agreed to bring those two components together for the month of June.Terri Sherbon with the Parks and Recreation Department said Tai Chi in the Park has been brought back.

" Tai Chi started probably about five or six years ago by Judy Fu, who contacted the Parks and Recreation Department and said that she would like to do this for the community," Sherbon said. "About two years ago Judy and her family got transferred to Bartlesville. John Bley wanted to pick up the program and keep it going, so he is the instructor and he is assisted by David Bryan and Bill Golsberry."

Sherbon said Bley also hosts Tai Chi classes at local churches.

Tai Chi was originally a form of self defense, but has since developed into a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements, which are performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing. Tai Chi is especially good for older folks, since it’s low impact. It’s also appealing because it’s inexpensive, requires no special equipment and can be done indoors or out, and either alone or in a group.

You only have two more saturdays to enjoy this group class while absorbing some sunshine and fresh air.

"They meet every Saturday for the month of June," Sherbon said. "They meet at the Hutchins Memorial, in front by the flagpole, which is on Overbrook. They’re there from 8:30 to 9:30."

According to MayoClinic.org there are a few warnings to consider before trying Tai Chi. If you are pregnant, have joint problems, back pain, fractures, severe osteoporosis or a hernia you should ask a doctor before trying.