Summer is one of the most beautiful times of year to practice Tai Chi.
As the days grow longer and the natural world flourishes around us, we have an opportunity to take our practice outdoors and experience the many benefits of movement in nature. At Wine Country Tai Chi Society, we are excited to once again gather beneath the trees, beside the lake, and in the fresh Okanagan air as we transition to our summer schedule.
There is something special about practicing Tai Chi outdoors. The gentle breeze, the warmth of the morning sun, the sounds of birds and water, and the beauty of the landscape all become part of the practice. Nature reminds us to slow down, breathe deeply, and move with greater awareness.
Summer Outdoor Schedule
Starting Thursday, July 2nd
Gellately Nut Farm (by the beach)
Monday and Thursday
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
- Tai Chi
- Sabre
- Lok Hup
Gellately Nut Farm (inside the Nut Farm near the buildings)
Tuesday and Thursday
5:45 p.m. – 7:15 p.m.
- Tai Chi
- Sabre
- Lok Hup
Fall Return to the Studio
Evening classes resume at West K Dance Studio on Tuesday, September 1st, and morning classes return to the studio on Thursday, September 3rd.
Friday Seated Classes
Our Friday seated classes will continue throughout July and August at West K Dance Studio at their regular times.
Summer Activities
Wine and Chi at Beaumont Winery
Join us on Saturday, July 11th at 10:30 a.m. for our annual Wine and Chi gathering at Beaumont Winery.
This special event offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy movement, friendship, and the beauty of the vineyard setting while celebrating the spirit of our Tai Chi community.
Picnic Gatherings
We will also be organizing picnic lunches at Gellately Nut Farm during both July and August. These informal gatherings are a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow members, enjoy the outdoors, and strengthen the friendships that make our community so special.
Stay tuned for details about our August activity, which is currently being planned.
Why Practice Outdoors?
The ancient principles of Tai Chi were inspired by nature itself. Practitioners observed the flow of water, the strength and flexibility of trees, the movement of animals, and the rhythms of the seasons. When we step outside to practice, we reconnect with these teachings in a direct and meaningful way.
Research continues to show that spending time in nature supports physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. Outdoor activity can help reduce stress, improve mood, support healthy sleep, and encourage greater physical activity. Combined with the mindful movements of Tai Chi, the benefits are amplified.
Many students notice that outdoor practice helps them feel:
- More relaxed and calm
- Better balanced and coordinated
- More energized throughout the day
- More connected to their surroundings
- More present in the moment
Living the Blue Zone Lifestyle
One reason Tai Chi fits so beautifully within the principles of the world’s Blue Zones is that it naturally incorporates many of the habits associated with long, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
Blue Zone communities around the world share several common characteristics:
Natural Movement
People move regularly throughout the day in ways that are enjoyable and sustainable. Tai Chi provides gentle, whole-body movement that supports mobility, strength, balance, and flexibility.
Stress Reduction
Daily practices that calm the nervous system contribute to long-term wellbeing. Tai Chi’s focus on breath, awareness, and coordinated movement offers a powerful form of active relaxation.
Social Connection
Strong relationships are among the most important predictors of health and longevity. Our classes, picnics, and community events provide opportunities to build meaningful connections and friendships.
Sense of Purpose
Having a reason to get up each morning and participate in life contributes to overall happiness and resilience. Learning new skills, supporting one another, and continuing to grow through Tai Chi gives many practitioners a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Connection to Nature
Spending time outdoors helps us reconnect with the natural rhythms of life. Nature encourages mindfulness, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for the present moment.
Join Us This Summer
Whether you are a long-time practitioner or new to Tai Chi, summer is a wonderful time to experience the joy of practicing outdoors.
Bring your curiosity, your enthusiasm, and perhaps a hat and water bottle. Together, we will enjoy movement, friendship, learning, and the beauty of the Okanagan landscape.
We look forward to seeing you at Gellately Nut Farm this summer as we continue our journey toward greater balance, vitality, and wellbeing—one mindful step at a time.
Here’s to a summer filled with movement, connection, laughter, and good health.