Building Balance and Connection with Tai Chi for Health

Since 2013, Healthy Acadia’s Tai Chi for Health program has helped hundreds of people across coastal Maine improve balance, strength, and overall well-being. The program began as part of a study with Aetna that confirmed Tai Chi’s effectiveness in preventing falls. Following its official launch in 2014, the program expanded through new partnerships and grants, offering classes not only for older adults, but also for children and people in recovery. Over time, it has grown into a sustainable, community-based effort with local instructors trained to continue sharing its benefits.

Support from organizations such as the Maine Health Access Foundation, the Sadie and Harry Davis Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, and the Maine CDC has been instrumental in that growth. Their support helped bring classes to all interested communities, including the Passamaquoddy Tribal Community at Motahkomikuk (Indian Township), where one class participant even became a certified instructor, ensuring the practice continues within their community.

Healthy Acadia credits the program’s lasting impact to collaboration with more than 30 partners and funders. These shared efforts demonstrate that true, long-term improvements in community health happen when we work together.

This June, Healthy Acadia’s Community Health Coordinator and Tai Chi for Health Master Trainer, Nina Zeldin, shared the story of the program’s evolution and success at the 23rd Annual Weeklong Tai Chi Workshop in Lake Junaluska, North Carolina. Her presentation, “Together, We Can Do So Much,” highlights how partnership and community engagement have made the program a model for health promotion.

Watch Nina’s presentation on the Tai Chi Institutes for Health’s YouTube Channel: Together, We Can Do So Much

What is Tai Chi for Health?

Often described as “meditation in motion,” Tai Chi combines gentle, flowing movements with mindful breathing. Regular practice supports balance, flexibility, and focus while reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, easing chronic pain and inflammation, and boosting immune function.

Developed by the Tai Chi for Health Institute (TCHI), these evidence-based programs are designed to bring health benefits as quickly as possible for a wide range of conditions. Tai Chi for Health classes are accessible and beneficial for people of all ages and physical abilities, empowering participants to take an active role in improving their health and well-being.

Try a Class This Fall

Healthy Acadia invites community members to experience the benefits of Tai Chi for Health firsthand. Classes are offered both in-person and online, making them accessible to individuals of all fitness levels and schedules.

Each free, eight-week session meets for one hour per week. While there is no cost to participate, donations are greatly appreciated and help sustain the program for others.

Pre-registration is required.
To view the current class schedule and sign up, click here