

Sat 18 Jul
|Croydon Buddhist Centre
'Five Animal' Qigong
Explore the 'five animal' qigong form with experienced qigong teacher, Andrew. Open to all. Suggested donation: £25 (waged) / £20 (unwaged)
Time & Location
18 Jul 2026, 14:00 – 16:30
Croydon Buddhist Centre, 98 High St, Croydon CR0 1ND, UK
Details
Join us for a mindful qigong session with experienced qigong teacher, Andrew.
The five animal qigong form is one of the oldest documented forms of qigong, designed to harmonise the body's internal energy by mimicking the movements and spirit of the natural world. Created around 200 CE, it's attributed to the legendary physician Hua Tuo. He observed that wild animals possessed a natural vitality and physical ease that humans lacked. By systematising these observations, he developed a medical qigong practice intended to prevent illness and promote longevity.
The five animals traditionally include: the Tiger (Liver) uses powerful, reaching stretches to develop strength; the Deer (Kidneys) focuses on gentle spiralling movements to cultivate calm energy; the Bear (Spleen) emphasises heavy, grounded steps to build internal stability; the Monkey (Heart) incorporates nimble, quick-witted motions to sharpen the mind; and the Bird (Lungs) utilises graceful, expansive wing-like gestures to improve balance and respiratory flow.
Please wear comfortable clothing and flat indoor shoes if possibl…