Join us for an evening workshop on the Five Animal Frolics, an ancient Chinese qigong practice to stretch and cultivate energy. This session will focus on the monkey, the animal associated with summer, joy, and the element of fire. The monkey movements are some of the most expressive in the whole sequence - one piece is about letting go of striving, and the other just about being an exuberant little monkey.

Five Animal Frolics is one of the oldest and most widely practiced qigong sets, so much so that many variants exist and no-one really knows who invented it. It has elements of stretching and breath work, and it ties in with Traditional Chinese Medicine and the cycle of the seasons. Just as importantly, it’s fun to do! It’s a gently energising practice based on embodying the personality of each animal in turn.

The workshop will be suitable for all levels, with an emphasis on introducing the practice for complete beginners, and flexibility to adapt each movement to everyone’s ability. For people who have already met these animals, it will be a chance to deepen understanding and get more into the feeling of one animal.

Everyone is welcome, all genders, ethnicities, backgrounds, and levels of experience with qigong. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

You'll leave refreshed and energised, and perhaps inspired to continue the practice at home.