TAI CHI

Welcome to Tai Chi at Huntley Village Hall

Contact Nikki Beard

Email: nicola@theshibashisanctuary.com

Message: 07721262564

Website: www.theshibashisanctuary.com

Book an Introductory Class: www.theshibashisanctuary.com/classes

What is Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi?

Qigong: Qigong (also called Chi Kung) is a 4,000-year-old Chinese health practice designed to keep your body and mind in balance. “Qi” means energy. “Gong” means work or skill. Together, they mean working with your body’s natural energy to improve health, vitality, and emotional wellbeing.

Through slow, fluid movements, relaxed breathing, and mindful focus, Qigong helps you release stress, boost your energy, and support your body’s ability to heal. It’s simple, adaptable, and can be practised by anyone, anywhere.

What is Tai Chi?

Tai Chi Chan (also called Taijiquan) is a traditional Chinese internal martial art, best known today for its slow, flowing movements. Originally developed for self-defence, it’s now widely practised as a form of gentle exercise that improves balance, flexibility, and mental focus.

The movements are performed in a continuous sequence, with an emphasis on posture, breathing, and a calm, mindful state. Many people use Tai Chi to reduce stress, support joint health, and improve overall wellbeing.

How Tai Chi and Qigong Connect:

While Tai Chi can be practised purely as physical movement, its deeper benefits come from combining it with the energy and breathwork of Qigong. Qigong is the foundation of Tai Chi, it helps you develop awareness of your body’s internal energy and teaches you to move in harmony with your breath. Practising Qigong alongside Tai Chi can help you learn Tai Chi more easily, feel its health benefits more quickly, and access the meditative, stress-reducing aspects of the practice.

What is Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi?

Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi is one of the most accessible forms of Qigong. It combines sets of 18 gentle, flowing movements based on Tai Chi principles, each linked with relaxed breathing.

This practice can help you:

Reduce stress and anxiety

Improve circulation and digestion

Support lung health and breathing

Increase flexibility and balance

Feel calmer, more focused, and more energised

It’s easy to learn, gentle on the joints, and can be done standing or seated, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. No mat required. Wear comfortable clothing.

Over 10 million people worldwide already enjoy its benefits, and it’s officially recognised as a national health exercise in Malaysia and Indonesia.

I have learnt so much through the class and weekly blog/email that we receive…
I love the Tai Chi class that Nikki runs.
Nikki is a great teacher and if we are going wrong she gently reminds us of what we should be doing!
I have learnt so much through the class and weekly blog/email that we receive on how the body works and how the effects of just breathing can help us. I am even confident enough now to do some basic Tai Chi at home.
Thank you Nikki

Karen Freeman

November 2025

Very relaxing, Meditational & Energising
Good teacher, approachable & encouraging. All levels catered for & you don't feel pushed to do more than is comfortable.
Very relaxing, meditational & energising

Mandy Godfrey

November 2025

I look forward to Monday evening for a little ME time
Having been only used to Yoga practice I had not experienced any formal Tai Chi Qigong and was a little unsure if it would give me the same benefit.
I need not have worried, from the very first session Nikki put me and the whole class at ease. Her style of teaching is excellent, she ensures everyone is able to go at their own pace and ability. I look forward to Monday evening for a little me time.
My husband has also joined the group as a way of gentle exercise to help with knee joint pain.
Thank you Nikki you’re a star.

Sally Taylor

November 2025

TAI CHI

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