Tai Chi

By: Alison Cardoza • Photography by Matt Johnson • Sponsored

Martha Thomas has a profoundly positive impact on numerous lives Baptist Health Milestone. Participants in this class experience a strong sense of belonging and connection, thanks to Martha. She has been teaching Tai Chi at Milestone for 5 years and practicing for 16 years. Tai Chi class is offered Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1pm. 

“When my journey with Tai Chi Chuan started 16 years ago, I never envisioned that part of it would be sharing Yang style Tai Chi with students at Baptist Milestone. Mfundishi Baba Serikali, NuChapter Tai Chi Chuan & QiGong Institute, had been asked to provide a Tai Chi teacher and so he sent me. I had been practicing for about 11 years then. The class started slowly but quickly grew thanks to word of mouth by Milestone students. 

Tai Chi is a slow, gentle exercise to help with a person’s balance, blood pressure, memory issues and other health issues. It is often called “meditation with movement” because our movements are slow and easy on our joints. We do stand for an hour in class, but if you are unable, you can remain seated during class and benefits will still be realized. Every Milestone person who walks in our class is unique and searching for something to help in their daily life – back pain, balance, memory issues or just getting stronger. With practice, Tai Chi can help with just about all aspects of our life. You develop a sense of “family” with your fellow students as we practice together inside the classroom or outside in the parking lot or park. We care and support each other in our practice, and we are always eager to have new students join us “in the flow”. I encourage all students to consider Tai Chi as a journey and we are here to help you on this trip to a more relaxed life.” 

Are you interested in exploring Tai Chi? Milestone welcomes you to explore your Zen during the holidays and explore something new this year. Members and non-members are always welcome to all of our classes we offer at Milestone. For more information, please contact Baptist Milestone to help address your fitness goals and find the class that fits your specific needs and desires this New Year. Happy 2025! 

Alison Cardoza ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitour Group Exercise Instructor at Baptist Health Milestone Wellness Center. BS Exercise Science and Sports Medicine with a minor in Health Promotions from University of Louisville. Former UofL Ladybird and NFL Colts Cheerleader.