THE TEACHER

I took my first Taiji class in 1990 when 4 years of HIV infection had started taking their toll on me. By 1995, despite a 6 months involuntary break of practice due to a major illness, Taiji had become an intrinsic part of my health regimen. To further my studies I joined the International Taiji School headed by Grand master Dong Zeng Chen. The practice of Taiji helped me survive and recover from many infections I suffered in that period. This is why in 1996, whilst convalescing from meningitis, I started teaching classes for people living with Aids.

As my health improved, my teaching moved from the voluntary sector to the commercial one, reaching a private, corporate and gym clientele. All my classes were based in London until I was invited to teach a workshop in Majorca in 2007. Due to class success and to my affinity with the people there, my visits became more frequent. I have grown to love Majorca and in 2010 I moved to the Island to start my own school, a branch of the 'Alex Dong International Taijiquan Association'.

Whilst teaching is in itself a good learning tool, continuing to improve my own Taiji has become an important responsibility. I therefore participate in numerous workshops organised by my Master all over the world and I practice mindfully to keep my study of the art alive. As a teacher and a practitioner I aim to keep an open “beginners mind”, hoping my teaching remains simple and clear.

As part of my practice, I try to apply my understanding of the Taiji principals to my every-day life. I am aware of many changes, not least in my health. I enjoy the simple sensation of feeling physically balanced and effortlessly aligned. The deeper pleasure of being in the moment has helped me make my involvement with the events and experiences more direct, resulting in clarity of responses.

I have chosen the unending and highly enjoyable task of sharing such realisations with my students. I am grateful to the teachers and students who accompany me through this gratifying and fulfilling journey.