Instructor: Cecile Mustiere

Cecile Mustiere has been practicing Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan and Chi Kung for 20 years. She has trained under three established teachers, each offering their own unique perspective, in France and the UK, then with Dr Shen in London and Jianshe Liu in London and China.

“Each of my teachers had a very personal approach to Tai Chi, but all shared the same passion. The different aspects of their teaching enriched my experience and nurtured the way I teach today.

The training I received from my first teacher, Patrick Ungaro, was very strict and academic. He required precision and rigour in learning the detail of every posture, insisting on perfect coordination of arms, legs and trunk, as well as spatial awareness. Progression would only take place if he was completely satisfied with the previous move (this might take some weeks!). Throughout the training the emphasis was on keeping relaxed and moving smoothly. This strict introduction to the principles of Tai Chi proved to be an excellent foundation for the absorption and application of other forms and techniques I studied later.

When I moved to the UK, I joined Gordon Innes’s class. Trained as an acupuncturist, Gordon was very interested in the health aspect of Tai Chi and Chi Kung, emphasising relaxation and breathing. Through his teaching, I discovered the deeper, meditative aspects of Tai Chi and in my daily practice I developed a real sense of body and mind unity.

In 1998 I studied under Phil Hewson, founder of the Tai Chi School of Form and Intention in East London and a teacher for over thirty five years. It was there that I discovered the martial aspect of Tai Chi through Push Hands (Tui Shou), Wushu (martial art) practice, and sabre, sword and stick forms. In addition to widening my practice scope, Philís teaching gave me a deeper understanding of Taoist philosophy: balancing yin & yang energies, harmonizing body, mind and spirit and “enjoying the journey”. In essence, Tai Chi as a way of life!

Over the years, I felt a growing desire to share with others the joy of practising Tai Chi and Chi Kung. I first started teaching at the School of Form and Intention and then ran my own school, the Cloud Hands Tai Chi School in London.

My interest in energy work has been constantly growing: Along with my daily practice where I experienced the amazing healing power of energy, I have also been attuned to Reiki and practiced in a Holistic Centre in Hackney. Further on that path, I attended workshops with Dr Shen who was teaching very ancient forms of self-healing Chi Kung. I finally met Jianshe Liu, a very warm and humble Chi Kung Master whose practice is an inspiration in all areas of life.

I also practised Kendo at Hizen Dojo and Battodo (the Art of Japanese Sword) with John Evans both in London. 

I wish you will embark on the journey to discover these beautiful Arts and enjoy it as much as I do!