Pacific Island VA holds two tai chi classes on Tuesdays at the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic in Kapolei. The classes are a weekly event that started virtually and moved to face-to-face recently. The local classes are coordinated by members of the Whole Health, physical therapy and recreation therapy programs.

Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that was developed for combat and self-defense. It has evolved into a sport and form of exercise. As an exercise, tai chi is performed as a gentle, low-impact movement in which practitioners perform a series of deliberate, flowing motions while focusing on deep, slow breaths.

“I went through the Whole Health program and started classes online,” said Air Force Veteran Victor Carvalho. “I was excited when the in-person classes started. It’s a great way to meet people and make friends my own age who understand me and like the same kinds of things.”

Often referred to as “meditation in motion,” tai chi aims to concentrate and balance the body’s qi—or vital energy—providing benefits to mental and physical health.

“Tai chi has helped the Veterans in many ways,” said tai chi Instructor and Physical Therapist Charlene Sison. “Tai chi is a practice that helps with arthritis and fall prevention. I’ve noticed that the Veterans have had improvements in their mobility, strength and balance. Before and after the class, they get to socialize and get acquainted with each other.”

Having the classes at the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic allows plenty of room to expand. The clinic was designed to provide ample spaces for Veterans to socialize. The tai chi classes have been very popular, and they now fill one of the alcoves in front of the clinic. The exercise is a good way to stretch and increase muscle strength and endurance, but it’s also a peaceful activity that helps Veterans find calm and center themselves.

“Since I have been doing tai chi, I have noticed an improvement in my balance,” said Army Veteran Joe Hoopai. “It also helps the mind. I find that it helps clear out my stress and make me feel more peaceful.”

“I’m a volunteer here at the Daniel K. Akaka Clinic,” said Navy Veteran Noel Almanzor. “I heard about the classes while I was volunteering, and I had to try it. It has been a really positive experience for my mental and physical health.”