Learn Something New This Fall

Fall is here, and grade school and college students everywhere have resumed their educational journeys. Yet there’s no reason adults—no matter how long they’ve been out of school—should consider that journey over. In fact, continual learning is essential for maintaining good brain health. Studies show that young people have greater neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to adapt to experience throughout life) than older adults. Regularly learning new skills helps adults maintain their brain’s elasticity, which provides the following benefits:

• • Faster adaptation to changing circumstances
  • Reduced risk of developing dementia
  • Increased number of skill sets
  • Increased speed of learning
  • Better problem-solving skills
  • Enhanced knowledge and creativity
  • Greater sense of accomplishment and self-esteem

One way to gain these benefits is to take in-person or online classes in almost any subject. It’s a good idea to choose a discipline that interests you, but also one that will work to your maximum advantage.

Train Both Body and Mind for Better Overall Health

If you train your body to do new things as well, you can not only increase your physical abilities, but also reduce stress and prevent mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Learning new forms of exercise can also prepare your brain to absorb new information.

Of course, many busy adults feel they don’t have enough time for multiple classes, which is where multitasking comes in: you can achieve the greatest overall health benefits by learning something that engages both the mind and the body. Tai chi, which is often referred to as “moving meditation,” is a low-impact practice that can significantly enhance both your physical and mental wellbeing.

If you’re ready to recharge your brain and body, look for in-person or online tai chi classes that fit your schedule. Then enjoy telling young people you’re headed back to school, too!

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Learn and Grow for a Lifetime with the Tai Chi Foundation

Whether you’re just out of college or starting your retirement, you can improve your quality of life by practicing qigong and tai chi. Learn to relax and manage stress while improving your balance and building strength.

There are over 250 Tai Chi Foundation-affiliated instructors teaching tai chi classes in 20 cities worldwide, making the world a healthier and more mindful place.

You can learn about qigong and tai chi by exploring the Tai Chi Foundation’s (TCF) various offerings. TCF provides live online courses, allowing you to participate in guided sessions from the comfort of your home. These virtual classes offer unique opportunities to connect with experienced instructors, ensuring you receive personalized guidance and feedback.

Additionally, TCF offers on-demand classes on Teachable, providing a flexible and accessible way to learn at your own pace. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, these online resources present a wealth of knowledge to enhance your tai chi journey.

For those seeking a more hands-on experience, be sure to check out the in-person course offerings of TCF’s affiliated local schools.

Visit the TCF Shop to find our stylish signature tai chi t-shirts!

Stay inspired by staying current with all our classes, retreats, and events. Sign up here to receive the TCF newsletter.

TCF is a not-for-profit educational organization that promotes, funds, and teaches programs that help people everywhere learn tai chi chuan and embody its principles.

By J Russo Muhlfriedel

© Tai Chi Foundation 2026

Photography: Markus Winkler on Pexels