Tai Chi Shibashi is a blend of Tai Chi and Qigong that is easy to do and to learn. The graceful, flowing movements are relaxing and enjoyable to practice. Focusing on the movements and the breath encourages mindfulness and over time builds resilience to stress. Tai Chi Shibashi is ideal for the older person, for those with health issues and for anyone who dislikes conventional exercise or finds it difficult.

Studies have found Tai Chi beneficial for a range of health conditions, as well as for reducing stress and improving balance and mobility. It is being used more and more in healthcare and pain management programmes. Qigong is an ancient Chinese exercise system developed to improve health and is still an essential part of Chinese Medicine today.

Dr. Michael Mosley researched Tai Chi for two BBC series, ‘Just One Thing’ and ‘Trust Me I’m A Doctor’. He found that Tai Chi improved heart health, immunity and brain function; that Tai Chi and Zumba (!) produced similar benefits for blood pressure and blood vessel flexibility; that Tai Chi was as good as conventional exercise for burning calories and reducing waist circumference.

Practicing Tai Chi Shibashi is something you can do for yourself to improve your health and wellbeing, whatever your age or level of fitness. It takes little time or effort, but regular practice will reward you with better health, better wellbeing – and a better quality of life.

About myself: I am a ‘Tai Chi For Better Health’ Certified Instructor (2019) teaching Tai Chi Shibashi Set 1 (a modified version, especially suitable for the older person). I have been a student of Qigong teacher Dario Gerchi for many years. My background is in holistic health and includes ten years working as a therapist on a sessional basis for a local charity. I am also a longstanding volunteer with Bristol Healing Group at their weekly Healing For Wellbeing drop-in sessions in Redland, Bristol.