Tai Chi comes to Puget Island

A new class has come to Wahkiakum County that offers seniors a place to practice balance and strength, along with numerous other benefits. Don Monares has begun teaching tai chi on Puget Island, driving in from Longview every Monday morning. Tai chi is an ancient Chinese practice that combines slow, gentle movements with steady, controlled breathing and a meditative state of mind. Tai chi has been gaining popularity among older adults as a means to improve balance and stability due to its emphasis on muscle control and flexibility. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, studies have shown that tai chi can improve the quality of life for seniors, boost cognitive function for those who practice it regularly, and offer numerous other benefits.

Don has been practicing tai chi for 55 years and is originally from Seattle but spent 30 years in Los Angeles, Calif., where he learned under a grand master of tai chi. Monares and his wife, Rhonda, now reside in Longview, and she assists him in teaching his classes. "She's my number one student," said Monares. He teaches tai chi classes at the YMCA. His classes are suitable for anyone at any stage of life, with a strong focus on senior health. "All you need to do tai chi is patience." Says Monares. According to Harvard Health, tai chi focuses on muscle strength, flexibility, and balance through slow, gentle, and continuous movement. Monares also offers a modified version of the movements, which allows those attending to sit in a chair if they wish. "[My class] really is geared for seniors to benefit, and you learn at your own pace... You can start anytime." When asked what his favorite thing about teaching tai chi is, Monares said, "I love to watch the transformation that tai chi does for each and every person who tries it... My students make me a better teacher; I learn from them every day."

Monares's tai chi classes are held on Mondays at 10 a.m. at the Norse Hall on Puget Island and cost $15 per session.