Tai Chi and Qi Gong

Tai Chi and Qi Gong are most widely associated in the West with the sight of Chinese people performing slow graceful exercises in parks, in the early morning.

Tai Chi is a derivative of the martial art Tai Chi Chuan (also written Taijijuan) and like Qi Gong (also written Chi Kung) has been practised for centuries in China as an effective means of staying healthy and fit. Qi (also written Chi, or Ki, in Japanese) is the Life Energy that flows around our bodies. The smooth circulation of Qi is essential for the correct functioning of all the body systems. The many different Qi Gong exercises include ones suitable for people who do not have the time, inclination or ability to undertake more vigorous forms of exercise. The gentle, repetitive movements enhance Qi flow and so benefit bodily health whilst also calming the Mind and Spirit.

Amongst the benefits of Tai Chi and Qi Gong practice are improvements in

•  blood and lymph circulation
•  digestion
•  breathing
•  immune response

I first encountered Tai Chi and Qi Gong more than twenty years ago when a friend persuaded me to join an evening class. Since then I have trained with several highly experienced teachers and have been to various Tai Chi events in England, Scotland and Taiwan. In addition to Cheng Man Ching's Yang short form, I have studied push hands, Da Lu and other partner work and Sword Form.

I teach Tai Chi and Qi Gong for health and relaxation at workshops as well as giving one-to-one tuition.