“I met Sifu whilst attending a weekend Taiji picnic in Newcastle. I was living in Devon at the time but decided to stay up for a couple of extra days so that I could attend a few more classes in Qigong and Taiji where Sifu demonstrated both the authentic manner in which to execute the internal arts, whilst applying Buddhist Dharma Teaching to all manner of subjects from work- related problems to relationships. During my stay I was also able to observe the morning prayer practice of Sifu's students. I remember feeling a deep sense of peace and joy on the coach journey back south at how kind and friendly Sifu, and all of his students had been. Back in Devon I found it quite natural and effortless to stop my ten-year-old habit of smoking, feeling much lighter and more relaxed in myself, as if I had turned a huge corner in my life. That August I attended the summer retreat in Greece where I became more familiar with the beneficial purpose of the prayer practice in transforming the common mundane mind towards becoming more refined, disciplined, and wholesome in thought and aspiration. It was on retreat that I had the opportunity to be immersed in Sifu's seemingly straightforward, yet mind-blowing teaching on humility, reverence, and gratitude. Sifu teaches the importance of consistent appreciation, patience, and generosity, which can only be achieved and maintained through a humble mind. Buddhist Dharma encourages constant self- reflection upon personal conduct and encourages the cessation of criticism and harsh words and actions towards others, which reduces the negative conditions we have already generated for ourselves through careless negligence in our daily conduct, by generating loving kindness and acceptance to all beings and every situation, however difficult. During my time as Sifu's student I have become aware of my arrogance and pride, of which I mistook for 'an identity', and by applying Sifu's teachings to my life I am realising how all is impermanent and in a state of flux, and therefore not worth getting stressed about! And that only through softening the body and mind can we open up to the lessons of experience and share real peace and love in our self and with others.”

Kate Hames (Devon)