IT won’t be your usual flurry of flying kicks when more than 100 people descend on Bayswater next week for Australia’s biggest post-Covid Tai Chi retreat.

The Taoist Tai Chi Centre on Railway Parade will host the week-long gathering from November 12–16, bringing together practitioners from across the country and overseas — including eight international leaders of the Taoist Tai Chi arts.

Local organiser Sandra Wilson said the event was a major milestone for the volunteer-run organisation.

“This is the largest tai chi retreat we have had since before Covid,” Ms Wilson said. 

“We are delighted by the turnout and to welcome eight of our international leaders as guests.”

• Members of the Taoist Tai Chi Society finding joy.

Participants will spend the week deepening their practice of the Taoist Tai Chi arts, which Ms Wilson said offered wide-ranging benefits.

“These retreats help our participants deepen their understanding of the many health and meditation benefits of Taoist Tai Chi arts,” she said.

Founded by tai chi master Moy Lin Shin in 1970, the Taoist Tai Chi Society of Australia is part of a global network spanning 25 countries. 

The society is a not-for-profit, charitable organisation run entirely by volunteers — and, unlike most martial arts schools, there are no belts, competitions or trophies.

The Society’s teachings describe Taoist Tai Chi as being “deeply rooted in a spiritual tradition of self-cultivation and compassion”, helping people “regain and maintain their health, improve balance, build strength, and experience a deep sense of inner calm”.

For those who prefer peace over punches, this could be the most serene gathering in Perth this year.

More information is available at www.taoisttaichi.org.