Lehigh Valley Martial Arts is holding a free introductory tai chi class from 7:30 to 9 p.m., January 13, 2014. Wine and cheese will be served during the question-and-answer period.

Tai chi is an ancient Chinese low-impact, highly-effective, moving meditation for improving and maintaining physical, mental and emotional health. Modern medicine has recognized that tai chi helps to improve balance and coordination, reverse the effects of osteoporosis, relieve stress and calm the mind. In a recent study at the University of California, Los Angles (UCLA) a group that practiced Tai Chi for 10 weeks experienced greater improvement in their levels of depression, as well as an enhanced quality of life, better cognition and more overall energy than a non-practicing group.

Learning Tai Chi gives students a way to increase energy, reduce stress and stay fit by exercising the mind and body simultaneously. The class at Lehigh Valley Martial Arts Emmaus provides a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded people in a friendly atmosphere.

Admission is free and open to all ages. Location: 544 Jubilee St., Emmaus PA. RSVP (required) by Jan. 8, to Miss Lorraine 610 966-2234 [email protected].