Free OLLI Fit Classes   

Something magical happens when we harness the power of our breath. The mind slows, the body relaxes and we remember that we are part of something so much greater. This course will serve as a way to remember, as we combine these 3 powerful aspects of life - breath, meditation, and community. Each class will begin with a breathing exercise connected to simple seated movements to prepare the body & the mind for a guided meditation practice. Meditation will last about 20-25 minutes, after which, we will have time to share our experience with one another in breakout rooms. Sharing is an important part of the process, for meditation is different for everyone and no one experience is the same, nor is there a right or wrong way to meditate. This class offers a unique way to connect to your fellow human, realizing we all share much more in common than we think.

This movement oriented class will combine seated, standing and kneeling postures. Modifications will be given for most postures - the point of this hour is more about giving yourself time to breathe and move with your body than it is about doing a posture in a particular way. We will combine dynamic and static movements, simple mobility exercises with postures that help to build strength and stability. Props are highly encouraged - blocks, blankets, chairs, and straps, in addition to mats which will help give you great success if you find you have limits in a posture. Instruction on how to use these props will also be provided, so you can get comfortable enough to focus on your breath, the most powerful part of practice. Join us for a beautiful session connecting body, mind and spirit.

Recommended: yoga mat & blocks

Medical Qigong: Healing Exercises from China In traditional Chinese medicine the patient is expected to be an active participant in their own healing, and not just a victim of their disease. Strong believers in the idea that exercise is medicine Qi-gong evolved over centuries to become the primary form of exercise therapy used in traditional Chinese medicine. Medical Qi-gong exercises are considered superior to herbal medicine and acupuncture because patients learn to keep themselves healthy by using exercises designed to cultivate a strong mind and a strong body. With over 3600 psychophysiological exercises developed over centuries, medical Qi-gong provides the tools for everyone to become an active participant in their own health. This course will give students an introduction to a variety of the most popular sets of exercises in a safe and progressive way. Qi-Gong exercise modalities include therapeutic gymnastics, equipment, massage, natures treatment and recreational exercise. Learn from two of the top professors of traditional Chinese medicine here at the University of Denver and at the Colorado School of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This class will discuss a wide range of evidence-based therapeutic exercises that you can use in your own life.

Recommended: Chinese Medical Qigong Paperback – May 28, 2013by Tianjun Liu (Editor), Xiao Mei Qiang (Editor) 

Experience for yourself the accumulated wisdom of centuries with the timeless exercise of T’ai Chi. According to the Harvard Medical Health Publication, “Tai Chi is often described as meditation in motion, but it might well be called medication in motion.” Designed to be a hands-on learning experience, this class will explore the principles and basic exercises in T’ai Chi and the growing body of evidence of its value in treating or preventing many health problems.

This introduction to T’ai Chi Ch’uan is both practical and participative, the course introduces you to the basics of T’ai Chi Ch’uan, and the skills and principles involved. These exercises can be a powerful complement to medical intervention. Modern studies have reported positive effects of Tai Chi on balance and fall reduction, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, cancer, COPD, heart disease, depression, and even schizophrenia. Many more studies are underway to explore the medical benefits of this mind/body exercise. Topics for discussion will include the global healthcare implications of Tai Chi as well as applications in daily life.

Recommended: The Harvard Medical School Guide to Tai Chi: 12 Weeks to a Healthy Body, Strong Heart, and Sharp Mind (Harvard Health Publications)