‘VAS Life Arts’, developed by John Scott Petty’s Vital Arts Studio, brings together practices that develop abundant health and well being, can lessen the negative effects of ageing, and foster greater athletic and physical ability. With advanced proficiency profound insight and wisdom may also be achieved by these practices. Thus they can be described as paths of self-discovery, complete with vibrant health and vitality.
John believes, as do his most influential teachers, that individuals who have been affected positively by a study program into such Arts, can themselves become a positive force in society and their community, and even if motivated, the larger world community and the environment.
Classes and regular workshops and courses are offered from beginners to advanced students in Tai Chi Chuan, (also spelt Tai Ji Quan) Chi Kung (also spelt Qi Gong) Kundalini Yoga and Chinese Yoga {also known as Tao Yin, Taoist Yoga and the like}, Wing Chun Kung Fu, and Meditation. Future classes in Ba Gua Zhang {8 Trigram Boxing} another Chinese Internal Art are also planned.
Students are welcome to attend scheduled classes held in Kent and surrounding areas, book private tuition sessions and purchase DVD’s {produced by John and others} to support continued learning at home. Workshops can also be delivered for groups of 6 or more people who are interested in a particular focus of VAS Life Arts teaching.
Classes are intended to be inclusive and are suitable for absolute beginners through to experienced and advanced. Workshops and courses offer more in depth parts of the subjects curriculum and particular facets.
You do not need to be either martially or spiritually inclined to attend classes, they are just as suitable if you simply want increased flexibility, stress relief and relaxation, improved athletic performance, or weight loss/gain. Whatever your needs then the classes will be perfect for you.
John’s teaching style is professional, but informal with plenty of humour! Students often comment on how the classes are a high light of their week, and how John makes everyone feel welcome.
International Press Reviews on the benefits of Tai Chi
'Tai Chi Reported to Ease Fibromyalgia'
Jodi Hilton for The New York Times
Mary Petersen, who has been suffering from Fibromyalgia, practicing tai chi on Nahant Beach, Mass., near her home.
‘Tai Chi-the perfect exercise’
Time Magazine
Barros & Barros/Getty Images
If you would rather care for your body without risking life or limb or increasingly creaky joints, you might consider Tai Chi.
‘Tai Chi Benefits Patients With Parkinson’s'
Stuart Isett for The New York Times
Can tai chi, the ancient martial art, help alleviate Parkinson’s symptoms?
'A Downside to Tai Chi? None That I See'
International Herald Tribune
The question is not ‘why should you practise Tai Chi, but why aren’t you?’
'Tai Chi Eases Depression in Elderly'
Robert Spencer for The New York Times
The ancient Chinese practice of tai chi appears to relieve symptoms of depression in older people, a new study shows.
'New Advice on Preventing Falls'
The New York Times
Robert F. Bukaty/Associated Press
Tai Chi – as an effective way to prevent falls.
‘The smooth, balanced flow of chi-your life force energy- is the single most important determinant to your health, vitality and happiness. This concept germane to Chinese medicine, is the primary reason why Tai Chi has been China’s national exercise for decades and is unlike any other sports or fitness craze.’ Bruce Frantzis-quote from his book ‘The Chi Revolution’ available now.