NILES SENIOR CENTER’S TAI CHI TEACHER
The Niles Senior Center will host a free demonstration of tai chi June 2, in a class run by an Evanston woman who said it has helped her maintain a calmness in her life.
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This form of tai chi consists of gentle, fluid movements that are slow in tempo. It improves flexibility, balance, well-being and fitness, as well as freeing up stiff joints and muscles, said Renee Gatsis of Evanston, an Arthritis Foundation certified instructor.
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Gatsis began performing tai chi in 1978, when she was 27 years old. At that time, she was teaching English, humanities and a special needs class of freshman who had not yet been appropriately placed at Rolling Meadows High School.
"It's an upright form with simple stepping, and students quickly feel the energy, or the 'qi.' (chee). In other forms, it may take several years of practice before practitioners can experience their qi or internal energy," Gatsis said.
"When people perform tai chi, their qi or internal healing energy circulates throughout their bodies," she added.
Pamela Stavinoga, a Lincolnwood resident who has been taking classes four years, believes the rapport that Gatsis builds with her students helps them be successful in dealing with their physical problems.
"She is very effective because she takes time for the older generation and explains why we do certain movements. She is also very attentive to her students' learning," she added.
Edie Suchar, a resident of Chicago's Peterson Park neighborhood, has been practicing tai chi for two years and has found it has helped her relax and improve her balance.
"It also helps that Renee is so very personable and caring. She is such a great teacher," she added.
And Jack Perlin, an 85-year-old Lincolnwood resident, said that while Gatsis is totally dedicated to the art, she never over-extends the class.
"She walks around the class and corrects our positions. She is always there to help. If you want someone who is very caring and knows what she is doing, Renee is who you want," he added
The Niles demonstration for the summer session will be from 10:00-10:30 on Thursday, June at the Niles Senior Center. Classes will be held 10 a.m. to 11 on Fridays from June 10-July 29.. Call the Niles Senior Center at (847) 588-8420 for more information.
