Qigong translated literally means 'working with the energy of life'. It is an integrated mind-body healing method that has been practised with remarkable results in China for thousands of years. Used in conjunction with modern medicine it is valued for its effectiveness in healing and preventing a variety of ailments including those that are life-threatening.

Qi is the vital energy which permeates all living things. It flows like a river through channels or meridians regulating, energising and strengthening the whole being. Like a river it flows better if unobstructed and free of stagnant polluted areas that arise when there is tension and injury. The Chinese over the centuries discovered and developed their knowledge and awareness of these meridians to form healing arts which include acupuncture, acupressure, massage and Qigong.

We can develop our own qi, passed on from our parents, with the help of the air we breathe, the ground under our feet and also from the food we eat. By enhancing these life-sustaining elements we can begin to experience more peace, health and vitality in our lives. Qigong enables us to quieten and focus our minds, become aware of our energy system and eventually to be able to direct energy to where it is needed.

Through the use of the mind, breath and movement the qi is regulated to flow in a smooth, natural and balanced way. There are thousands of qigong exercises, all tailored to suit individuals depending on their age, their fitness or their physical limitations. Tai Ji Quan is one of the best forms of qigong.

Gong is translated as 'work' or 'benefits acquired through perseverance and patience'. There are no quick miracle cures because years of misuse, neglect and stress have often taken their toll. Students from our classes report improvements early in their training for a wide variety of ailments including heart and back problems, high blood pressure, arthritis, digestive disorders and depression.

Qigong helps to harmonise our thinking with our emotions to enable us to trust our intuition and find a path through life most suited to our own needs. Taoist philosophy places great emphasis on nature and the way it symbolises our lives. Like a river on its way to the sea, we flow through life but the ease of the route is up to us.