Anna Carol Porter of Holistic Harmony is offering donation-based Qigong classes at First United Methodist Church, 311 Jackson Ave. N., in Russellville June 6.

Porter, who will instruct the classes, is a native of Russellville. She recently moved back from California, which is where she learned about and came to love Qigong.

“It’s an exercise that can be done by any age or size and with any limitations because it can be done while standing, sitting or lying down,” Porter said. “Everyone can benefit. That is why Qigong is wonderful.”

Qigong, Porter explained, was founded in China more than 4,000 years ago, with the same principles as Tai Chi, as an exercise that involves slow movement, meditation and breathing to help promote whole body healing.

Each class will include fluid movement and breathing exercises that can be done while sitting, standing or lying down. Attendees are encouraged to come hydrated and rested and wear comfortable clothing Participants can wear socks or go barefoot, and chairs will be available for those who want them.

The first class, Awaken, starts at 9 a.m. Porter said it is open to everyone and is meant to help set the tone for a better day. Refreshments will be provided.

The next class, Dragon and Tiger, is at 2:30 p.m. and is only open to cancer patients and those in remission. It is for everyone in those two categories, including children who are age-appropriate for this type of exercise.

The third class, Calm and Rest, is at 6 p.m. Porter said it is designed to help slow down, to calm the nerves and prepare for a wonderful night of sleep.

The public is invited to attend any and all of the classes that apply to them.

According to the Natural Medicine Journal, the official journal of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, “Preliminary study shows that Qigong may be beneficial for relieving stress, although more study is warranted in this area.” The Natural Medicine Journal’s website promises scientifically valid, clinically relevant information within its monthly peer-reviewed journal as well as online.

For more information, visit Holistic Harmony’s Facebook page or contact Porter by email at holisticharmony.ac@gmail.com or by phone at 256-668-2830.