About Karen Soo
Karen Soo is a certified Qigong instructor with more than 30 years of experience in Tai Chi and Qigong. She regularly leads classes, workshops, retreats, and community events, sharing the healing benefits of these ancient practices with a wide range of audiences. Karen has introduced Qigong in schools, care homes, festivals, and corporate environments, and has also been featured on BBC radio and TV. Her graceful, strong, yet soothing presence creates a deeply supportive space for self-healing and transformation. She continues to study with leading teachers around the world, deepening her practice and inspiring others along the way.
What is Qigong?
Qigong, pronounced “chee gong,” is an ancient Chinese healing art and system of self-cultivation. It combines movement, posture, breathing techniques, self-massage, and meditation. By working with the body and breath, Qigong helps energise the body while calming the mind, offering a sense of balance and steadiness in daily life. Though it dates back thousands of years, it remains a natural and relevant wellness practice for the demands of modern living.
Retreat Focus
During our time together on the retreat, we will learn and practise Shibashi Qigong. These movements are simple, gentle, and a pleasure to explore. By the end of our time together, you will leave with a highly effective set of Qigong exercises that can support you for a lifetime.
Testimonials
- "Karen has a deep understanding of the ancient healing art of Qigong and she is committed to sharing her wisdom and passion with her students. Her calm, grounded and authentic approach is healing in itself and it is a pleasure to practice with her." — Pauline W. UK
- "Thank you! I have been in numerous Yoga & Tai Chi Classes over the course of many, many years & your instruction style is head & shoulders above any class I have been in anywhere! You make everything so easy to understand & follow along." — P.P. US
- "Thank you for equipping me with a really effective method of de-stressing and keeping fit during this period." — Carol G, UK
- "Qigong has been more effective and sustainable than anything I have tried for ongoing back pain. It is a joy to practise." — Y. Ineson, UK
- "I felt really energised and positive after your class, thank you." — L. K, UK
- "Qigong has been invaluable in helping me manage my anxiety." — Ms N. S, UK
- "Qigong has been instrumental in my healing journey." — Ms B, UK
- "Karen Soo shares Qigong and Tai Chi with deep warmth and obvious enthusiasm. She's attentive to their needs, and always ready to answer questions and share her own many years of experience and learning, which she's always extending. I may not be able to move with her fluidity and control, but watching her I can see just what I'm moving towards." — David
