Qi Gong at the Tree of Life Centre
Gentle flowing movement, breath and focus to cultivate energy, balance and calm.
Qi Gong is a centuries-old Chinese practice of slow, graceful movement, relaxed breathing and focused attention. It’s gentle enough for almost anyone, yet surprisingly powerful. Practising regularly can help you feel more energised, balanced and deeply calm, with improved posture and flexibility. It suits all ages and fitness levels, and many movements can be done seated.
Daniel Scott teaches a weekly class on Thursdays for £10. It currently runs from 6–7pm at Tree of Life Centre in Hove, and moves online via Zoom, 7–8pm, from October 2026. Daniel also leads a longer monthly Qi Gong workshop at the centre on Sundays from 10am–12pm, for £30.
What is Qi Gong?
‘Qi’ refers to vital energy and ‘gong’ to skill cultivated through practice. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and martial arts, Qi Gong uses flowing movements, standing postures, self-massage and breathing to encourage the smooth flow of energy through the body.Qi Gong and Tai Chi can support balance, mobility and wellbeing, particularly in older adults.
Benefits of Qi Gong
- Valuable daily skill to improve physical and emotional health
- Supports recovery from injuries
- Create a sense of relaxed internal power
- Beneficial for posture, breath and balance
- Beneficial for muscles, joints, nervous system, internal organs and bodily functions
- Explore your body and mind
- Work with specific issues in a guided way
- Supports your practice of other sports and art forms
Who is Qi Gong for?
Qi Gong is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, including people with limited mobility – many movements can be done seated. It’s an excellent choice if you want a calm, low-impact practice, that goes deeper than just movement.
What to expect in class
Classes are practised mostly standing, beginning with loosening exercises, followed by flowing Qi Gong sequences, and closing with quiet standing or seated meditation. The monthly workshop allows more time to learn and refine a set of movements. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and flat shoes or socks.
Qi Gong FAQs
What is the difference between Qi Gong and Tai Chi?
Both are Chinese mind–body practices. Tai Chi is a martial art with longer choreographed forms; Qi Gong typically uses simpler, flowing movements focused on energy flow and all-round wellbeing.
Is the weekly class moving online?
Yes – from October 2026 the weekly Thursday class runs online via Zoom from 7–8pm.
Do I need to attend the weekly class to join the workshop?
No – the monthly workshop is open to everyone, whether new or experienced.
Can I do Qi Gong with limited mobility?
Yes, many movements can be adapted or practised seated.
Where is the class held?
All in-person classes take place at Tree of Life Centre, 143–145 Portland Road, Hove, BN3 5QJ. We’re easy to reach from across Brighton & Hove by bus or train (Aldrington station), with street parking nearby.
