Gannon University offers its share of interesting classes to choose from. This upcoming spring semester, the university will be offering a new and exciting elective: Tai Chi/Qi Gong.
This isn’t the first time that this type of class has been offered at Gannon. Jay DiFrank, who works for the Human Resources Department and the Gannon Wellness Program, said that, through the recreation and wellness initiative, they have been offering a Tai Chi/Qi Gong class for the past year and a half. The class will be offered in the spring semester as an elective.
DiFrank explained that Qi Gong is a form of Tai Chi, and that students taking the described informal class have had responses similar to those taking yoga.
Qi Gong is an ancient form of meditative exercise and is praised for having the power to improve one’s health and life. The art of Qi Gong primarily consists of meditation, relaxation, physical movement, mind-body integration and breathing exercises. The free movements remove tension and stiffness of the body.
Frank Popeski is a lifelong Erie resident who has mastered Qi Gong, Tai Chi and Quantum Touch. Popeski looks forward to teaching this upcoming two-credit class at Gannon. Popeski said that through these practices, he has taught many to heal their illnesses the untraditional way.
Trever Kelly, a senior international studies major, has practiced Tai Chi in the past. Upon learning that Gannon will be offering the upcoming class, Kelly said, “I would highly consider it, Tai Chi.” If he is able to fit it into his schedule, Kelly plans on registering for the class, which will meet Thursdays from noon to 2 p.m. in the Carneval Athletic Pavilion.
Students may not have heard of this class being offered as an elective, because it was added as a class for credit after the scheduling booklets had already been printed. If anyone is interested in taking the Qi Gong class as an elective this upcoming semester, it is listed as SPRT 490 – Special Topics in Sport. But consider registering early – only 20 available spaces remain in the class.
