Qigong has become a way of life for me. It brings health, energy, fitness, and well-being. Daily practice has improved my posture, balance, flexibility, and coordination. It helps me relax, keeps my mind active, and deepens my connection with nature.
I’ve practised Qigong for over thirty-five years and have learned from a number of Tai Chi and Qigong masters, often travelling considerable distances to attend their classes and workshops. My instructors include Geoff Thompson, Julian Wilde, Michael Tse, Angus Clarke, Damian Hackney, and Sam Moor. I’ve been teaching Tai Chi and Qigong for more than eight years.
Geoff and Angus both trained under Dr. Chi Ching-tao, who studied with Cheng Man-ch’ing—the teacher who brought Yang-style Tai Chi to the West. Michael Tse is a renowned Grandmaster in Qigong, Tai Chi, and Wing Chun. Angus Clarke is an Honorary President of the Tai Chi & Qigong Union for Great Britain. Damian Hackney has trained national champions in Chinese wrestling and kickboxing, and teaches internal martial arts (Neijia).
I’ve learned a wide range of forms and exercises including the Yang Short Form (and its mirror image), Yang Long Form, Chen Laojia Form, and several Qigong styles such as Wild Goose, Swimming Dragon, Balancing Gong, Bagua, Su Luhan, Baduanjin, and Shibashi. I also have some experience in Hard Qigong and weapon forms using sword and fan. These practices have shaped who I am.
I practise daily, early in the morning and again late at night—out on the patio in all weathers except ice, snow or rain. When it’s too harsh outside, I move the furniture indoors to make space. These are quiet, mindful times when I feel completely connected to the natural world.
To maintain the quality of my teaching, I regularly review videos of the forms and exercises I teach—checking my performance and technique. These include videos and YouTube classes from respected Masters and Grandmasters like Cheng Man-ch’ing, Angus Clark, Michael Tse, Chen Chuangang, Cheng Zhen, Simon Blow, Binkun Hu, Chen Xiaowang, Howard Choy, Lin Housheng, Fabrice Piché, Wing Cheung, and others.
My current focus is on the health and wellness benefits of Qigong, not the martial aspects.
I wrote an article, Teaching Tai Chi to Seniors, which was published in Tai Chi Ch’uan, the journal of the Tai Chi Union for Great Britain.
Even after thirty-five years, I know my Qigong journey is far from over. Like peeling an onion, there’s always another layer to discover.
Outside of Qigong, I enjoy an active retirement. I am a Volunteer Ranger (Harbour Watch) with Chichester Harbour Conservancy and attend many of the Friends of Chichester Harbour work parties assisting the rangers. I also enjoy walking, growing fruit and vegetables, and looking after my raised beds.
Emsworth Qigong 