Eight Brocades (Ba Duan Jin)
The classic eight-movement medical qigong set. A complete practice to open the body, settle the breath and start the week with clear, grounded energy.
- When
- Mondays, 9.25 – 10.10am
- Length
- 45 minutes
- Where
- Live online · Zoom
- Price
- Ask about current rates
About this class
Ba Duan Jin — the Eight Pieces of Brocade — is one of the oldest and best-loved qigong forms in the world, practised continuously for close to a thousand years. Eight simple movements designed to strengthen the whole body, regulate the breath and calm the nervous system.
Each of the eight movements works a different area and organ system. Together they gently stretch the spine, open the shoulders and hips, massage the internal organs and encourage qi to flow freely. Modern research has linked regular Baduanjin practice with better balance, sleep, digestion, lung function and reduced stress.
Starting your week with this set is a quietly radical act. Instead of being pulled straight into Monday's demands, you arrive at your desk already grounded, warm and clear-headed.
Who it suits
- Anyone wanting one complete, repeatable daily practice
- Tense shoulders, backs and hips from desk work
- Building steady energy and improving balance without strain
- People recovering from illness or managing long-term conditions
Other classes this week
Tuesday · 11 – 11.50am
LGBTQIA+ Mindfulness & Qigong
A warm, affirming space combining mindfulness and qigong. Come as you are — no experience needed, chair options always offered.
Wednesday · 12 – 12.40pm
Seasonal Qigong
Practice that moves with the year, working with the organ and element of each season to keep body and spirit in step with nature.
Wednesday · 6 – 7pm
Tai Chi Qigong — Downley Common
Our in-person evening class on the common. Flowing tai chi qigong outdoors — grounding, sociable and suitable for complete beginners.
Friday · 9.30 – 10am
Shibashi Set 1
Thirty focused minutes of the beloved 18-movement Tai Chi Qigong form. The perfect short reset to end your working week well.
Join us on Monday for 8 Brocades
Whether you're managing stress, rebuilding strength, or looking for a deeper practice, there's a class here for you. Beginners are genuinely welcome — most people arrive having never done qigong before.