Greetings, I am Darren, and I have had the privilege of practising Tai Chi (Taiji) and Qi Gong (Chi Kung) for over two decades. My dedication to these ancient arts has not only enriched my personal life but has also inspired me to share this profound knowledge with others, guiding them on their journeys for the past eleven years. Throughout this time, I have encountered a diverse array of individuals, each carrying their own stories, challenges, and aspirations. Many of them, much like myself at the onset of my practice, arrived with various health concerns.

One of the most remarkable aspects I have consistently witnessed is the transformative power of Tai Chi. It is not uncommonly met with initial scepticism, yet practitioners soon uncover its potential to significantly enhance their health and overall well-being. In my view, Tai Chi serves as a conduit for cultivating our vital energy, while Qi Gong concentrates on the efficient movement of this energy throughout the body. This harmonious interplay is pivotal, as it not only opens the joints and engages the fascia connective tissues but also nurtures the entirety of one’s physical and mental health.

When I began my own journey, I faced debilitating issues with my back and a troublingly poor short-term memory, to the extent that I had to meticulously document the movements to recall them. A dear friend, now departed, introduced me to my first teacher, for whom I hold profound gratitude. My journey in Tai Chi truly commenced under the guidance of James Wayman, who illuminated my path. Subsequently, I spent eight years learning with James Langcake, a distinguished student of Arvo Tucker and Master Wang Hai Jun, further deepening my understanding and appreciation for these practices rooted in traditional Chinese wisdom.

In essence, Qi Gong stands as a vital element of this heritage, often regarded as the key to achieving and sustaining good health. The practice invites one to embark on a journey—a journey towards self-discovery, healing, and balance in the ever-evolving tapestry of life.

My journey in search of authentic Tai Chi led me to the serene landscapes of China, where I sought the wisdom of Master Ou Hai Bing. His lineage is illustrious, tracing back to Grandmaster Feng Zhiqiang, a luminary in the world of Tai Chi and a revered national treasure of China. Feng's profound understanding was nurtured under the tutelage of Master Hu Yaozhen, a legendary figure in Qi Gong, whose teachings on internal practice have shaped the minds and bodies of many practitioners.

It was through Master Hu that Feng imbibed the essence of internal Qi Gong, a knowledge so potent that it transformed the way Tai Chi was perceived and practiced. Feng Zhiqiang's path would later intersect with that of Chen Fake, a pivotal character in the development of Chen style Tai Chi. Chen Fake's dedication and innovation breathed new life into the art, establishing a clarity and depth that continues to resonate today.

Decades after his own training, Feng devoted himself to perpetuating Chen Fake's legacy, disseminating the principles of Chen Tai Chi to practitioners around the globe. It is within this rich tapestry of lineage and tradition that I found my calling, aspiring to embrace the teachings of my esteemed teacher, Master Ou Hai Bing, and to honour the profound heritage that has shaped my understanding of Tai Chi..

Just before the world was engulfed in lockdown, I had the profound fortune of meeting Howard Wang, the founder of Prana Dynamics. This encounter has ignited a transformative journey within me, one that has notably elevated my aptitude in Tai Chi and Qigong. The principles of Prana Dynamics resonate deeply with the core of my practice, providing a harmonious blend that has redefined my understanding and execution of these ancient arts.

In our internal mind awareness exercises, we delve deeply into the intricacies of the fascia within our bodies, all while placing significant emphasis on the use of Yi—or intention. This conscious melding of physical awareness with a focused intent opens up new avenues for exploration and growth.

Though my journey with Prana Dynamics has only just commenced, it already feels like the elusive missing link that not only enhances my Tai Chi practice but also deepens my entire Qigong experience. I am enthusiastic about the continuing marriage of these concepts and their potential to enrich every facet of my martial and meditative pursuits. As I embrace this path, I am reminded that each step forward is a step towards enlightenment, connection, and a deeper understanding of the energies that flow through and around us..