Monthly Tai Chi Workshops for Beginners and Improvers
For the full calendar of workshops as well as regular classes, see the calendar below or go to the Events Calendar.
Learn Yang Style Tai Chi in friendly, structured Saturday workshops
Discover the joy of Tai Chi in a series of welcoming monthly workshops designed for beginners and those wishing to deepen their practice. Whether you’re brand new to the practice or returning to refine your knowledge, these sessions offer a supportive space to learn, grow, and feel good in your body.
Taught by Deyin Institute–certified instructor Alissa Powell, each workshop blends clear instruction, mindful pacing, and a friendly atmosphere that makes Tai Chi accessible and enjoyable to learn.
Workshop Dates & Themes
Yang Style 8 Form
A perfect starting point for beginners.
19 September 2026: 10.45am–1.45pm (3 hours) SOLD OUT!
17 October 2026: 10.45am–1.45pm (3 hours)
16 January 2027: 10.45am–1.45pm (3 hours)
£30 per person per workshop
Yang Style 16 Form
Build on your foundation and expand your practice.
07 November 2026: 10.45am–2.45pm (4 hours)
05 December 2026: 10.45am–2.45pm (4 hours)
20 February2027: 10.45am–2.45pm (4 hours)
Important: It’s recommended that you can comfortably perform the 8 Form without guidance before progressing to the 16 Form.
£40 per person per workshop
📍 Location
All workshops take place at:
Cherington Village Hall
Stourton, Shipston‑on‑Stour, CV36 5HG
A stunning contemporary space set in the beautiful North Cotswold countryside.
Free parking on site.
Who These Workshops Are For
- Beginners and those wanting to deepen their practice
- Anyone seeking gentle movement for health and wellbeing
- Adults aged 18+
- Those wanting to learn Tai Chi in a friendly, structured environment
- People who enjoy mindful practices such as yoga, qigong, or meditation
Why Learn Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a graceful, flowing martial art known for its profound health and wellbeing benefits. Practising regularly can help you:
- Improve balance, coordination, and posture
- Reduce stress and calm the nervous system
- Build strength and mobility through gentle, low‑impact movement
- Enhance focus, body awareness, and breath
- Support long‑term wellbeing at any age or fitness level
These workshops are suitable for most people, including those who prefer a slower, mindful approach to exercise.
What people are saying…
Students from previous workshops have said:
“Alissa is far and away the best Tai Chi instructor I’ve ever had, and I’ve tried many. She gives completely clear instructions at all times, for example the height your hands should be, positioning of feet, weight transference, direction you should be facing. You name it, she has it covered. I can guarantee that you will leave a workshop having learnt a lot. You also receive a video after the course of Alissa performing the Form so that you are able to practice at home.”
“I really enjoyed this workshop, Alissa has devised a great way of teaching this Tai Chi form with her calm manner and excellent explanations. The venue was really lovely, a big spacious modern room and Alissa generously provided hot and cold drinks and some delicious home made healthy treats for afterwards. A great morning improving my Tai Chi practice!”
“The workshop was great and I learnt a lot. Great sense of achievement and satisfaction being able to flow with the Yang Style 8 Form in the class and to be able to practice at home. Workshop also supported with videos and handout of the moves. Lovely nourishing food and refreshments, comfortable and warm environment, peaceful atmosphere, and a gentle pace. Many thanks Alissa.”
“A very enjoyable workshop with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. One felt at ease and able to ask for assistance/guidance. I came away feeling I’d learnt a lot and motivated to practise.”
“Great workshop. Pace was just right and care & help with performing the moves was excellent. Very much looking forward to the next one.”
“Having metal plates in my spine, ankle and a total knee replacement, I found the workshop not too taxing. Alissa works at a pace you are happy with, highly recommended!”
“Clear instructions and demonstration, also excellent in correcting students in a very nice way”
“It was great fun, and great value for money!”
“I can’t wait to do it again!”
“The workshop stretched body and mind, and I was amazed at how much we covered and achieved.”
Frequently Asked Questions
No previous experience is needed for the 8‑form workshops. They’re beginner‑friendly and accessible, though having some comfort with learning simple choreography can be helpful.
For the 16‑form workshops, it’s advisable to already be proficient in the 8‑form and able to complete the full sequence without instruction. This ensures we can cover the entire 16‑form within the 4‑hour workshop and spend more time refining flow, transitions, and technique.
Wear comfortable, loose‑fitting clothing that allows you to move and breathe easily. Layers are helpful, as your body temperature may shift during breathwork or gentle movement. Trainers, socks or soft indoor shoes are welcome, though many people prefer to work barefoot. Please bring a water bottle.
Tea and gluten-free healthy treats will be provided. If you have food allergies or intolerances, please bring your own snacks just in case.
Please let me know about any injuries or limitations before the session begins. Most practices can be adapted, and you’re always encouraged to move at your own pace. If something doesn’t feel right, you can modify, pause, or simply rest—your safety comes first.
Absolutely. Many participants enjoy attending several workshops to deepen their practice or explore different themes. You’re welcome to book as many sessions as you like.
Yes, free on‑site parking is available.
I understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your place, the following terms apply:
- Up to 14 days before the workshop: Full refund
- 13–7 days before the workshop: 50% refund
- Within 6 days of the workshop: No refund
If I need to cancel or reschedule a workshop for any reason, you will receive a full refund or the option to transfer your booking to another date.
For the full cancellation and liability policy, see below.
About the Instructor
Alissa Powell is a Deyin Institute–certified Yang Style Tai Chi instructor with a background in traditional and contemporary approaches to practice. She previously studied with the British Tai Chi Academy and spent time training at the Shaolin Temple Europe, experiences that continue to inform her calm, structured, and accessible teaching style.
Alissa currently teaches weekly Tai Chi and Qigong classes, focusing on clear instruction, mindful movement, and creating a welcoming space for learners of all levels.
Outside of teaching, Alissa works as a functional breathwork instructor and is a registered nutritional therapist, integrating breath, movement, and evidence‑based wellbeing in her wider professional work. She is also the author of a children’s book on mindful breathing, inspired by her passion for helping people of all ages connect more deeply with their bodies and inner calm.
Full Cancellation & Liability Policy
By booking a place on any Tai Chi workshop, you agree to the following terms and conditions:
- Cancellation Terms
1.1 Cancellations made up to 14 days prior to the workshop date
A full refund of all fees paid will be issued.
1.2 Cancellations made between 13 and 7 days prior to the workshop date
A refund of 50% of the workshop fee will be issued.
1.3 Cancellations made within 6 days of the workshop date
No refund will be issued. This includes non‑attendance for any reason.
1.4 Transfers
Transfer requests may be considered but are not guaranteed. Any transfer granted will be subject to the same refund windows outlined above.
1.5 Event Cancellation by the Organiser
If the organiser must cancel or reschedule a workshop, participants will be offered either:
- a full refund, or
- the option to transfer their booking to another workshop date. No additional compensation will be provided.
- Health, Safety & Liability
2.1 Participant Responsibility
By attending the workshop, you confirm that you are in suitable physical condition to participate in gentle movement practices such as Tai Chi. You agree to take responsibility for monitoring your own physical wellbeing during the session and to stop immediately if you experience discomfort, pain, dizziness, or any other symptoms that may indicate a health concern.
2.2 Medical Conditions
Participants with existing medical conditions, injuries, or concerns should consult a healthcare professional before attending. You must inform the organiser of any relevant conditions that may affect your participation.
2.3 Assumption of Risk
Tai Chi is a low‑impact practice; however, as with any physical activity, there is a small inherent risk of injury. By booking and attending, you acknowledge and accept this risk.
2.4 Limitation of Liability
The organiser will take all reasonable steps to provide a safe environment. However, the organiser is not liable for:
- injuries sustained as a result of participation, except where caused by proven negligence
- loss or damage to personal property
- any additional costs incurred by participants (including travel or accommodation) in the event of cancellation or rescheduling
2.5 Venue Safety
Participants agree to follow all safety instructions provided by the organiser and to use the venue responsibly.