August 8, 2003 – Let the young criminals of New Mexico take it for granted: If they cannot control their anger, they will be sentenced to … Tai Ji Quan and meditation classes.
This particular method is the work of Judge Frances Gallegos who, faced with the apparent failure of conventional anger management courses, decided to follow the advice of a doctor of oriental medicine. Henceforth, young offenders accused of drunkenness or road rage, or domestic violence, can choose an “alternative punishment”.
For 12 weeks, twice a week, two hours per session and at a cost of $ 180, convicts must go to the courthouse to learn Tai Ji Quan and meditation. At the end of the course, participants pour themselves a kava infusion and receive a relaxing acupuncture treatment.
The initiative has only just started, and it is therefore impossible to say whether the young people who take part will be less at risk than others of reoffending. However, the positive effects of Tai Ji Quan and meditation on self-control have long been known. As for kava, for thousands of years the natives of the Pacific Islands have derived from its root a drink that improves mood and predisposes to socialization.
Jean-Benoit Legault – PasseportSanté.net
According to CNN.com; August 6, 2003.
