“Minus the pre-conceived notions and judgments engendered by our culture about growing old, aging is simply change.” FRED BRANCATO, TAI CHI INSTRUCTOR
The mood is as bright as the winter sun streaming through the windows as instructor Fred Brancato greets each member of his weekly Tai Chi class at The Atrium at The Cedars. Gathered in a circle, they begin by sharing with each other and letting go of the preoccupations of the day. As they rise to begin their exercises, they are already lighter.
Fred has practiced Tai Chi for the past 21 years, and he guides this class with a voice of quiet assurance. Movements are graceful, yet precise. Breathing is slower, but deeper. Each sequence includes gentle reminders to stay centered, to smile. Everything is in balance.
At 76, Fred has the look and bearing of a much younger man, and Tai Chi clearly informs his outlook on aging. And as he shares the philosophy behind this ancient art with the class during the discussion breaks, you can see how the concepts of birth and rebirth and of harmony with change also resonate with his students. “I love the people at The Cedars,” Fred says. “So quick to laugh, wide open, ready for anything. I get so much from them.”
And they get so much from this class. “There are so many health benefits for seniors,” he says. “the meditative nature of Tai Chi as well as the exercises. Preserving strength and balance are so beneficial as we age. Tai Chi has been credited with lowering blood pressure and blood sugars, easing fibromyalgia – every study shows something new.”
At the beginning of class, Fred cracked a window to the bracing winter breeze. By the time he closes it, minds are clearer and walks are brisker. Tai Chi with Fred has refreshed and renewed this class, like a breath of fresh air.
A Ph.D. and scholar of world religious traditions now retired from academia, Fred teaches Tai Chi and courses about Eastern philosophy and Native American world views, and is the author of Ancient Wisdom and the Measure of Our Days: The spiritual Dimensions of Retirement, Aging and Loss.