As part of the Dorothy Godtland Lecture Series, this month’s presentation is “Art of Tai Ji Quan,” according to a press release. 

Carol Soma of Kiester will be present a session on Tai Ji Quan from 7 to 8 p.m. Sept. 21 at The Albert Lea Art Center, 226 W. Clark St.  The event is free and open to the public.

Tai Ji Quan: Moving For Better Balance is a 12-week class to help older adults improve their balance and reduce the likelihood of falling. Research has shown people who complete the program are half as likely to fall and are less fearful of falling. In addition to improving balance, the program also focuses on muscle strength, flexibility and better breathing habits. This is the third year Senior Resources of Freeborn County has sponsored the class with a three-year grant from the Southeast Minnesota Area Agency on Aging.

Soma has always had an interest in the arts, and currently is an active board member and volunteer with the Kee Civic Theatre in Kiester, a non-profit group that restored and now operates the Kee as a movie theater and community performance space. She currently represents Faribault County on the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, which serves the southwestern part of the state.

Before retiring a few years ago, she was the media specialist at Blue Earth schools, and previously taught English and Spanish. In addition to tai chi classes, she teaches and studies yoga in the area. In her other very part-time job, she is a caregiver consultant with Interfaith Caregivers of Faribault County, facilitating a caregiver support group in Kiester and a Parkinson’s support group in Blue Earth.

She and her husband, Brad, have two children and five grandchildren, so they often find time for visits. Reading for her two book clubs and a garden keep her busy at home.