When I came to Australia to do my masters degree in sports psychology, tai chi was already taking off.

I moved here partly due to my study, but also because my martial arts teacher told me there was a hunger for it in this country.

I had previously discovered the art in the early 1970s after completing a general martial arts course in China. I was then able to study and teach at the Beijing Sports University. While there I set up the first tai chi program for international students and eventually set my sights for Australia.

I have been teaching tai chi in Australia since 1988, and have been fortunate enough to hold classes at Federation Square since 2004. Melburnians are able to attend classes to create a better connection between body and mind. By participating they get to learn both the art and the discipline.

Tai chi continues to grow globally because of the research showing the benefits to peoples’ health and wellbeing.

We have people of all ages and backgrounds joining our classes, so it’s important to make sure everyone feels welcome.  I’ve noticed more women than men are attracted to it because of its more gentle nature, but I hope more men will join in over time.

People have given me positive feedback over the years, but one of our biggest success stories involves a builder who came along to my classes. Tai chi completely transformed his life. He was incredibly stressed and unwell when he first started, but tai chi gradually helped him relax and improve his lifestyle habits – he is now able to live in a more constructive way.

On top of that, he’s now one of our instructors – this means he is now able to help others dealing with stress and anxiety. White and blue collar workers come to our classes looking for a different way to relax and find clarity, in an effort to be mentally focused and ready to take on the world.

It is also particularly great for our elderly participants – it allows them to work on their strength, mobility and balance through enhanced breathing and exercise techniques.

It also helps with arthritis and blood pressure, and can assist with Parkinsons disease. It’s a good exercise for everyone because of its low intensity.

I look forward to many more years helping people of all ages achieve a more positive and balanced lifestyle through the use of tai chi.