Tai Chi

Ancient Chinese movement practice for balance, mindfulness, and vitality. Cultivate inner peace and physical harmony through gentle, flowing movements.

Program Overview

Tai Chi is a centuries-old Chinese martial art that has evolved into a graceful form of exercise and meditation. Through slow, deliberate movements and focused breathing, Tai Chi cultivates both physical strength and mental clarity.


Our program provides a welcoming environment for practitioners of all levels. Whether you're seeking stress relief, improved balance, or a deeper mind-body connection, Tai Chi offers a path to enhanced wellbeing that respects your individual journey.


Led by James F. Garofalo L.Ac., a certified instructor in the Energy Arts System, our classes blend traditional practice with modern understanding of movement and wellness. Each session is designed to meet you where you are while gently challenging you to grow.

Key Program Features

Accessible for All

Tai Chi welcomes all fitness levels and ages. The gentle, low-impact movements can be adapted to individual needs, making it ideal for beginners and experienced practitioners alike.

Stress Reduction

Through mindful movement and focused breathing, Tai Chi naturally calms the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting a sense of inner peace and mental clarity.

Balance & Coordination

Regular practice improves balance, stability, and body awareness, helping prevent falls while enhancing overall physical coordination and proprioception.

Mind-Body Integration

Tai Chi unites physical movement with mental focus, creating a holistic practice that strengthens the connection between body awareness and conscious intention.

Program Details

Program Structure

  • Opening warm-up and centering exercises
  • Form practice and movement sequences
  • Breathing and energy cultivation techniques
  • Cool-down and meditation

What to Expect

  • Schedule: Contact for current class times
  • Format: Small group instruction with individual attention
  • Experience Level: All levels welcome, beginners encouraged
  • Location: SkanStrength - 1382 E Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152
  • Session Style: Gentle pace with clear instruction and guidance

Instructors

James Garofalo, LAc

  • James Garofalo, LAc

    James F. Garofalo L.Ac. is dedicated to offering Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine services to the Finger Lakes region, blending his diverse background in military service, fitness coaching, and holistic medicine. 


    His journey culminated in his 2020 graduation from the Finger Lakes School of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, following two decades of immersion in Chinese language, culture, history, and medicine.


    Hailing from the scenic Mid-Hudson Valley, James embarked on a path of service after high school, enlisting in the United States Air Force. During his 11-year military career, which included deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, James served as a Cryptologic Linguist while simultaneously pursuing his passion for fitness. He became a CrossFit Level 1 trainer, distinguishing himself as a Physical Training Leader and Unit Fitness Program Manager.


    After an honorable discharge in 2011, James utilized the Post 9/11 GI Bill to earn an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science at Ithaca College. During his studies, he honed his coaching skills, developing strength and conditioning programs for collegiate athletes and coaching at CrossFit Omaha (Omaha, NE) and CrossFit Pallas (Ithaca, NY). Recognizing the natural convergence of Chinese language studies and Exercise Science, James embarked on his journey into Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine at the Finger Lakes School of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.


    Completing over 4,000 hours of classroom and practical instruction, James graduated with a Master's Degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in 2020, earning his license to practice acupuncture (L.Ac.) in New York State. Committed to an integrative approach to wellness, James combines modern training methods with traditional Nourishing Life practices, using the lenses of Chinese and East Asian Medicine to identify, diagnose, and treat patterns of disharmony and disease.


    In 2023, James attained board certification through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and holds the designation of Diplomate of Oriental Medicine (Dipl. O.M. NCCAOM). He has also been studying in the Energy Arts System of Bruce Frantzis since 2016 and became certified to instruct Foundational Qi Gong in 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need prior experience to start Tai Chi?

    No prior experience is necessary. Tai Chi is accessible to complete beginners and our instruction is designed to meet you at your current level. The slow, gentle movements can be learned gradually, and our instructor provides personalized guidance to help you develop proper form.

  • What should I wear to class?

    Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy movement. Flat, flexible shoes or bare feet are recommended. Avoid restrictive clothing that might limit your range of motion.

  • How often should I practice Tai Chi?

    We recommend attending classes 1-2 times per week to build consistency. Many students also benefit from brief daily practice at home, even just 10-15 minutes. The key is regular, sustained practice rather than intensity.

  • What are the health benefits of Tai Chi?

    Research has shown Tai Chi can improve balance and prevent falls, reduce stress and anxiety, enhance cardiovascular health, increase flexibility and range of motion, and promote better sleep. Many practitioners also report improved focus, mental clarity, and overall sense of wellbeing.