Tai Chi
Wu style Tai ji quan double edge sword (jian)
Tai chi, (or more correctly Tai ji quan,) is a martial art that is mostly known as a gentle form of exercise for body and mind. It is a series of postures linked together through soft, slow, graceful movement . Moving in a particular way helps to regulate the body, breath and mind, and it is this that has a powerful effect on a persons health.
Regular practice benefits better posture, balance, coordination, fitness, and a deeper sense of relaxation and self discipline .It can help to manage stress and over time improve, recover, or prevent ill health.
As a martial art Wu style tai chi offers a full sylabus of methods. The short, long and fast form, partner work (known as pushing hands) and weapons forms such as the double edged sword, broadsword and spear. All help develop the self defence aspects of the art and train the body and mind to a unified integral whole.
Tai chi is ultimately a form of self development that helps understand oneself, others and ones own path through life. It is a deep practice that goes far beyond its martial purpose, and sustained practice embodies its Taoist philosophical principles in a non linguistic way, deeply intuitive way. Over time the study of Tai ji quan becomes the study of life itself.
My Biography
I hold a BSc Honours in Tradtional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture from Westminster University. I am also a Member of the British Acupuncture Council and am bound by its strict code of conduct. I have done a number of post graduate courses and am committed to continuing proffessional development. I have also worked at the Gateway NHS acupuncture clinic, and also at a GP`s surgery in Bedfordshire.
For the last four years I have been based in East Sussex, and practice acupuncture primarily at the Heeler centre in Hassocks. I am also a founder member of Lewes Community Acupuncture, the first multi bed practice in Lewes and also recently co founded Eastbourne Community Acupuncture. I am passionate about spreading the benefits of acupuncture and making it more affordable for all members of society.
I enjoy all aspects of general practice but have a particular interest in treating children and those with fertilty issues.
I have practiced Tai ji quan and Qi gong for over 13 years, and for the past 6 years have been studying traditional Wu style under Michael Acton. He is a disciple of Dr Li Li Qun a 4th generation Wu stylist and Qi gong Doctor from Shanghai. Now in his 80s he is one of Chinas leading exponents in both arts and a true master. He was a senior disciple of Ma Yeuh Liang one of the most celebrated Tai ji masters of modern times. Ma himself was senior disciple of Wu Jianquan, founder of the Wu style.
