Saipan Tribune

Monday, May 20, 2013

Thursday, March 21, 2013

Man'amko enjoy tai chi lessons

Tai chi has become one of the more favorite forms of exercise for clients at the Aging Center, according to program coordinator Walter Manglona.

An ancient Chinese martial art, tai chi has evolved over the years and is considered nowadays as a form of exercise that gives many health benefits.

Manglona said the man'amko' enjoy tai chi because it helps them feel relaxed and stay focused.

He said the island's elderly learn about tai chi movements at the center through Dr. John who conducts the “slow yet powerful” movements that tap into the clients' minds and help them alleviate any pain or problems they have in life.

Manglona said tai chi will be one of the many activities that they have planned to encourage the man'amko to go out more often and be healthy as they anticipate the Older Americans Month celebration in May.

This year's theme is “Unleash the Power of Age,” and Manglona said the seniors will participate in events such as ground golf, softball, school tutorials, and water therapy.

“I think our man'amko are getting younger everyday and I really do enjoy having the privilege of providing activities for them to help improve their health,” he added.

On Tuesday, the clients had their pool tournament “redemption” activity that saw eight players competing for the chance to win bragging rights over their opponents.

Last week's defending champion, Lito Asuncion, had a tough match with Kimo Jordan who ended up winning in the exciting rematch.

“The clients were screaming and cheering for their fellow man'amko,” said Manglona.

Besides Asuncion and Jordan, other participants were Ann M. Perry, Meryalen Conrad, Leonides Marinas, Pedro Dela Cruz, Orlando Gondayo, and Vicente Laniyo.

“Lito Asuncion can't wait until next week to have the chance to win his title back,” Manglona added.

While this week's winner and participants did not receive any prizes, Manglona noted that the “biggest prizes” such as trophies and other exciting giveaways await the tournament winners to be held during the observance of Older Americans Month.

For more information, call Aging Center at 233-1320 or 21.