Meet The Teacher Tracey Jones - Helping Movement Feel Possible At Any Age!

This month’s Meet the Teacher feature is all about Tracey Jones, the Activities Leader for Age UK Wiltshire. I hope you enjoy her story.

I first met Tracey when I trained her in Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi Set 1 and Set 2 during my time teaching and volunteering for a Community Interest Company. At that point, we had only met online via Zoom, but she was one of those people you instantly feel connected to.

About a year later, we met in person at a workshop I was running in Bristol, and that connection was just as strong. Since then, we’ve stayed in touch and built a lovely friendship.

Tracey is the Activities Service Lead for Age UK Wiltshire, and she is one of those genuinely dedicated people who cares deeply about others' well-being. She not only teaches Tai Chi and Qigong in her community but also trains volunteers, helping these ancient practices reach even more people who can benefit from them.

Tracey has continued to develop her skills over the years and is now qualified in Shibashi Set 1, 2, and 3, as well as Fragrant Qigong. More importantly, she has a natural ability to connect with people in a way that makes them feel comfortable, capable, and supported.

I am so pleased to share her story with you.

How did you first discover Qigong, and what drew you to it?

I am the Activities Service Lead for Age UK Wiltshire. My background is in personal training, with a focus on strength training. During the pandemic, I began working for Age UK Wiltshire, where I first tried Tai Chi. At the time, I wasn’t sure if Tai Chi was really my thing. I must admit, I initially found the practice quite difficult because its gentle, controlled pace was very different from what I was used to. I don’t claim to be an expert; I focus on teaching the movements and allow individuals to explore their origins and theory if they wish.

That said, I guess you could say it has become my thing. Since that first introduction, I’ve deepened my Tai Chi knowledge and earned qualifications to teach Qigong Shibashi Sets 1, 2, and 3, as well as Fragrant Qigong.

What and where do you teach?

I currently include Tai Chi in the classes I run for Age UK Wiltshire, and I also train new volunteers to teach Shibashi Set 1 and Fragrant Qigong.

What made you decide to start teaching rather than just practicing?

I decided to teach to support and develop my amazing team, so the benefits of Tai Chi could reach a wider audience, and more people could enjoy the benefits of movement and exercise.

How would you describe your classes to someone who has never tried Tai Chi or Qigong before?

Most of my classes are designed for people with reduced mobility who tend to be more sedentary. As a result, sessions are generally conducted while seated, though those who are able are encouraged to stand.

What do you hope students feel or gain from attending your classes regularly?

I hope students leave with both the ability and the belief that they can do this form of exercise and that it benefits them.

Has Tai Chi or Qigong had an impact on your life outside of practice?

Personally, Tai Chi has had a positive impact on my mental and physical health. It gives me a sense of focus and calm, a much-needed space away from everything that’s going on in the world.

What do you enjoy most about teaching in your local community?

Teaching in my local community is incredibly rewarding. Seeing people’s confidence and abilities grow is truly special, and I feel privileged to be part of it.

What keeps you motivated to continue developing your skills as a teacher?

I’m motivated to keep developing my skills so I can share this knowledge with my wonderful team of instructors. Together, we can continue to reach people in our community who will benefit most from Tai Chi.

What keeps you inspired to continue practicing and teaching?

My inspiration is twofold: first, for myself, as Tai Chi brings me calm and gives me time just for me, and second, to continue sharing its benefits with people in the charity sector.

What would you say to someone who feels curious but unsure about starting?

Give it a try, what have you got to lose? You never know; it might just be your thing.

If you’re a Tai Chi and/or Qigong teacher and would like to be featured in a future Meet the Teacher article, feel free to get in touch at 📧 taichiandlemons@gmail.com

Alongside this blog series, I am also creating a growing directory of Tai Chi and Qigong classes around the UK. The aim is to make it easier for people to find local teachers and classes. If you teach Tai Chi and/or Qigong and would like your classes included in the directory, you’re very welcome to get in touch and send in your class details.

👉 View the Tai Chi & Qigong Class Directory 🌐 www.taichiandlemons.com/qigong-classes

If you’ve enjoyed reading Tracey’s story, keep an eye out for more “Meet the Teacher” features, where I’ll share the journeys of other instructors and the wonderful ways they bring Tai Chi and Qigong into their communities.