Shaolin Culture

Having retired recently, I wanted to find an exercise regime that suited my availability, fitted in with other life commitments, helped my health and was within my personal budget. I had studied other forms of martial arts over many years, played squash, used a gym, swam, cycled, and played golf. None of these seemed to fill my needs, either because of costs, repetitive boring exercise or being over-strenuous.

Just over 18 months ago, I stayed at a holiday resort for a weekend break and a Tai Chi demonstration with personal practice was part of the arranged activities. I remembered I had practiced Tai Chi for 6 months about 4 years previous and I thought that’s it, let me find a class near home and see if it is right for me? I searched the web and found classes in Bromley run by Shifu Yang.

I have practiced Chen style Taijiquan for the last 18 months and can only say it has fulfilled all my expectations and needs.

I have now learnt that Tai Chi is not just an easy lazy exercise regime, it is a complete system, which incorporates physical, mental and spiritual training, an incredible art. I have lost over 10Kg, it has improved my health, my relaxation, my inner self and my physical attributes. I can practice at any time and anywhere. Always returning to my Master for guidance, understanding and improvement. It will be a long time before I fully understand Taijiquan, its exercises, forms, and Qigong but the path to enlightenment is exciting, fulfilling, very absorbing and there is so much to learn. Tai Chi is something that anyone can practice regardless of age or physical shape, which teaches you posture, balance, and a way to improve your whole body, both internally and externally.

Now, totally absorbed by Taijiquan, I look forward to a healthy, long life, trouble free of all those pains and creaking joints, and maybe one day I will be skilled enough to pass this wonderful experience to others.

Geoff Ellis