by Jocelyn Watkin | Dec 8, 2024 | Information |
1-Day Retreat: Healing Qigong and the Zen of Kintsugi (Golden Harmony)
When: Saturday 3 May 2025, 9am – 3.30pm. Please arrive between 8.45 – 9am
Where: Auckland Botanic Gardens (in the Friends Building), 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105
This 1-day retreat is truly unique as this amazing combination of ancient Chinese and Japanese practices has never been offered before by Kia Ora Tai Chi. Join us for a day of self-care, where the team will guide you on how to nurture your health, let go of stress, and embrace the golden magic of imperfection.
Participants: Adults aged 18+. Beginners will be very welcome.
Embrace the Healing Power of Qigong from Ancient China
Awaken the energy flow within you with qigong
Discover the art of healing qigong (pronounced ‘chee gong’) with deep meditative breathing and mindful movements.
Experience a golden glow within as you awaken the energy flow (qi) throughout your body, calm your mind, and enhance your overall wellbeing.
Find Flow through the Japanese Zen concept of Wabi Sabi
Unlock the secret to inner peace with wabi sabi. This centuries-old Japanese philosophy finds beauty in simplicity, imperfection, and the natural flow of life, which will leave you feeling ‘as good as gold’.
How liberating would it feel to stop trying to be perfect all of the time? Absolutely, it would be like winning a ‘get out of jail free’ card in a board game. By embracing imperfection and going with the flow, your movements will become more fluid and you’ll improve your qigong.
By integrating wabi sabi into your qigong practice and also everyday life, you’ll let go of stress and tension, sleep better at night and feel more energised during the day.
Rediscover Wholeness with Kintsugi (all materials will be provided for this)
Broken ceramic bowl that has been joined back together using golden glue (kintsugi)
Experience the magic of kintsugi (literally “golden joinery”), which is the centuries-old Japanese art of mending broken pottery with golden glue.
This practice teaches us that flaws and cracks are what make us truly unique. By applying this philosophy to life, you’ll learn to see beauty in every moment and cherish the golden experiences that shape you.
During this workshop, and with the guidance of an expert sensei (teacher), you’ll create your own kintsugi piece to take home—a beautiful reminder that nothing is ever truly broken.
Explore the Tranquil Auckland Botanic Gardens
Camellia garden in the Auckland Botanic Gardens
At the end of the retreat, there will be time for your own self-guided tour of these peaceful gardens. You may like to:
- Explore the serene beauty of the Camellia Garden, which will be just coming into bloom. Camellias are native to both China and Japan (and other parts of Eastern and Southern Asia).
- Immerse yourself in Shinrin-yoku (Japanese for ‘forest bathing’) in the dappled seclusion of the native bush area.
- Admire: the many fascinating and intriguing sculptures throughout the gardens.
- Embark on your own ‘sniffari’ and delight in the aromas of the edible and herb gardens.
- Get dreamy with the palms or in the rose garden.
- Or simply wend your way along the many walkways to feast your eyes and senses on nature at its best.
$195 per person | Limited to 10 participants.
Please contact Jocelyn (of Kia Ora Tai Chi) to reserve a place in this unique retreat by phoning or texting her on 027 493 9851, or using the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. She will advise options for payment.
About your instructors
Jocelyn Watkin
Jocelyn Watkin is a qualified qigong and tai chi instructor in Auckland, New Zealand, who has been enjoying the health benefits of these ancient Chinese arts for over 20 years. She has visited China three times and Japan over 10 times. She loves exploring and researching the traditional philosophy and the concept of Zen of both countries.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi and is registered as a group exercise provider (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).
Testimonial: “I really enjoyed your style, Jocelyn. Friendly, caring, informative and non-judgemental. You made me feel relaxed and welcome. Thank you.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
Ema Frost
Ema Frost is a New Zealand artist, illustrator and ceramic designer who has been teaching Kintsugi for over five years. She regularly travels to Japan to study and learn new techniques.
Testimonial: “I really enjoyed the kintsugi workshop with Ema. She is very patient and a great teacher. And now I have the skills to make anything with this style, and have even made one as a gift. Really enjoyable day. Fun and relaxed atmosphere. Would definitely recommend this workshop. (Lisa)
Who should attend?
This workshop is open to anyone aged 18+ who seeks to refresh and rebalance their body, mind, and soul. Ideal for beginners and also for tai chi and qigong enthusiasts who want to get more out of their practice.
Here are all the details of this 1-Day Retreat for Healing Qigong and the Zen of Kintsugi (Golden Harmony)
When: Saturday 3 May 2025, 9am – 3.30pm, please arrive between 8.45 – 9am
Where: Auckland Botanic Gardens (in the Friends Building), 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available in the main car park at the Auckland Botanic Gardens. The Friends Building is a small house located next to the main carpark (on the Western side of the car park).
What to wear: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in and flat-soled shoes. Please bring a jersey or hoodie to keep warm, as we will be sitting still for some of the time. If you want to explore the gardens after the retreat, please also bring an outdoor jacket.
Please bring: Your lunch, pen and paper to take notes, filled water bottle and a snack.
$195 per person | Limited to 10 participants
Please contact Jocelyn to reserve a place in this unique retreat by phoning or texting her on 027 493 9851, or using the Contact Form on the Kia Ora Tai Chi website. She will advise options for payment.
What is qigong (pronounced chee-gong)?
Qigong breathing is healing and liberating
For thousands of years the Chinese have had a secret. A secret that helps to increase longevity and assists the body to heal from injury, illness and trauma.
That secret is qigong – a deep, meditative breathing and movement exercise that connects the mind to the body.
The main reasons why people learn qigong are to manage and reduce stress, and improve their overall health and well-being.
Qigong is about releasing stress, not suppressing it. Through special qigong breathing you can learn how to let go of stress so you can enjoy more of the good and creative things in life.
Jocelyn and Ema would love to share their knowledge with you at this very special retreat so you can immerse yourself in Healing Qigong and the Zen of Kintsugi.
Cancellation policy
This retreat must be paid for in full to reserve your place. A 90% refund is available if you withdraw before 1 February 2025. A 50% refund is available if you withdraw before 1 March 2025. No refunds are available from 1 March onwards.
If you are unwell on the workshop day (3 May 2025)
Please do not attend if you are sick or have cold or ‘flu-like symptoms. In these circumstances, you will be issued with a credit to attend another tai chi or qigong workshop or retreat by Kia Ora Tai Chi.
All participants will need to respect the need for social distancing at all times during the retreat. Anyone is welcome to wear a face mask if they wish.
The room will be well-ventilated and hand sanitiser will be provided.
We will abide by the NZ Government’s health advice and regulations as they apply at the time of this retreat.
by Jocelyn Watkin | Sep 24, 2024 | Information |
I’ll be teaching three FREE tai chi sessions in Cornwall Park, Greenlane Road West, Auckland, Saturday 28 September, 11am – 2pm for their Heritage Day celebrations. All ages and abilities welcome. Ideal for beginners.
The sessions will be scheduled at approximately 11.15am, 12.15pm and 1.15pm.
Note: These will be outside Huia Lodge and not in my usual summer tai chi spot.
There’ll be heaps of other free activities for Heritage Day in Cornwall Park, including:
- March, jive, groove and bop along to tunes from the last 121 years with the Auckland Big Band
- Step back in time and picnic like it’s 1929 with Art Deco Society Auckland Inc.
- Fly and make your own kite with CLM Community Events.
- Admire how past visitors would get to and from the park in style with the North Island Model A Ford Club Inc.
- PLUS you can pick up your own limited edition Cornwall Park Trading Card on the day.
Find out more about this amazing Heritage Day event in Cornwall Park: https://cornwallpark.co.nz/whats-on/heritage-day-recreation
If postponed on the 28th due to rain, the next scheduled day for this event will be Saturday 5 October, 11am – 2pm. Please check the Cornwall Park webpage or their Facebook page for updates about the weather.
This event is part of Auckland Council’s Auckland Heritage Festival 2024, which runs from 28 September to 13 October. There are lots of other free and low-cost events that will be part of this festival: https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/heritage-festival/heritage-festival-events/
by Jocelyn Watkin | Jul 22, 2024 | Information |
Embrace your creativity by making earth art/nature art (This one was created by Jocelyn)
Do you wish you could simply let go and be free to try something creative – just for fun, just for you, even if just for a day? Abracadabra … your wish is granted.
Join me at the picturesque Ōtorohanga Museum for a transformative 1-day workshop where the ancient arts of tai chi and qigong blend seamlessly with making earth art in te taiao (the natural world/the environment) and with other mindfulness-based art practices.
When: Sunday 22 September 2024, 10.30am to 4pm
Where: Ōtorohanga Museum, 15 Kakamutu Street, Ōtorohanga. Refer to map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gTwGn9w4PwijLRpA8
Participants: Adults aged 18+. Ideal for beginners.
This unique workshop is designed to help you to let go of your limits, feel in harmony with nature, and be inspired to embrace your own creative potential.
What past participants are saying: “I loved how easy it was to overcome my self-limiting beliefs about art and creativity.” – Participant in the “Awaken Your Senses” 1-day retreat, May 2024
At the workshop, you’ll:
- Learn the soothing art of tai chi and qigong to harmonize your mind and body so you can feel centred and tuned-in with the natural world.
- Experience the tactile delights of leaf rubbing to connect with nature’s textures.
- Immerse yourself in 5-senses nature journaling to become aware nature’s beauty all around you so you can let go and just be in the present moment.
- Create your own earth art/nature mandala, to feel grounded and at peace in the natural environment to further release your creativity. Weather permitting, we’ll also explore the outdoors to forage for materials to inspire your creation to help you feel more connected with Papatūānuku / the Earth Mother.
Creativity is not a ‘magic gene’ inherited by just a few. You’ll discover that everyone possesses the ability to create art that is both meaningful and delightful.
If you have ever been told you’re ‘not artistic’ or ‘not talented’ then this very special workshop is your chance to reclaim your creativity – just for you, just for fun and without limits, without judgement.
This unique workshop is jointly hosted by the Ōtorohanga Creative Conduit and Jocelyn Watkin of Kia Ora Tai Chi. Jocelyn will guide you through every activity with expert care and tuition.
Tickets: $65 per person (+ booking fees of $2.25 apply). All materials supplied including a nature journal.
Buy your tickets through the following link or cut & paste that link into your browser:
https://events.humanitix.com/adult-workshop-inspire-your-creative-flow-with-the-art-of-tai-chi-workshop-code-jwtai?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR017WznEukVtg4XvNVM_sjZraRGRweUY8BMKkIvMyQk5JXA8ZEHzPdu-00_aem_AUfAfPzA0SxMT90Oxk9toD2ij4SoN-b0upPAvwMMPkie8OLPtpf1ZGOFX55DUT6_QwxUW3Rn_FIw9jz9zlAKv4D-
Come along to shake off the winter gloom and revitalize your spirit as we prepare for the renewal of Spring!
What is earth art (also known as nature mandalas or eco art)?
Symmetrical earth art design, created by Jocelyn
Earth art / eco art / earth altars / nature mandalas are temporary designs or sculptures arranged on the ground.
They are usually entirely organic as they are made out of leaves, flowers, petals, twigs, pine cones, shells, and in fact anything natural that has fallen from the trees or been released by the sea. (i.e. not usually snipped or cut).
The style or the ‘look’ of earth art is entirely up to you. It can be structured, concentric, random or eccentric in its layout.
When you forage for your earth art items/materials, they can be selected purely by chance (i.e. what you find on a particular day). Or, you might deliberately search for something in particular because it is symbolic, maybe because you are remembering someone special or a special moment in your life?
I find both the foraging and making process creative, absorbing and fulfilling. You, too, can feel this when you make your own earth art, including letting the peace and tranquility of reconnecting with nature flow over you.
For our workshop, you will arrange your earth art on tables so you don’t have to bend down or crouch on the ground.
Testimonial: “It was so much fun creating earth art … and such a beautiful & replenishing retreat day.” (Participant in the “Awaken Your Senses” 1-day retreat, May 2024)
Free-flow design for earth art, created by Jocelyn
If you need more information or if you have questions, please text Jocelyn on 027 493 9851 or use the contact form on the website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Here are all the details of the workshop
Date and time: Sunday 22 September, 2024, 10.30am – 4pm.
Venue: Ōtorohanga Museum, 15 Kakamutu Street, Ōtorohanga. Refer to map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gTwGn9w4PwijLRpA8
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available on the road outside the museum.
What to wear: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to move in, and flat-soled shoes that are comfortable for walking. Please also bring an outdoor jacket (for when you are foraging outdoors) plus a jersey or hoodie to keep warm indoors, especially as we will sit still for some of the time.
Please bring: Your lunch, pen and paper to take notes, filled water bottle and a snack
Places are limited to just 10 people.
Who is the instructor?
Jocelyn Watkin
Jocelyn combines the calming tranquility of tai chi and qigong with mindfulness-based art therapy and sensory, nature journaling to help people to embrace and develop their own creativity, reduce stress and to improve their well-being.
She is a qualified school teacher (now retired), who majored in art and English literature as part of her training. She has been doing tai chi and qigong (the breathing side of tai chi) for over 20 years.
Jocelyn completed her tai chi instructor qualifications eight years ago because she wanted to share the amazing health and well-being benefits of tai chi and qigong with others.
She is the founder and director of Kia Ora Tai Chi and registered as a group exercise provider (with own choreography) with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).
Testimonial: “I really enjoyed your style, Jocelyn. Friendly, caring, informative and non-judgemental. You made me feel relaxed and welcome. Thank you.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
What is qigong (pronounced chee-gong)?
Qigong breathing is healing and liberating
For thousands of years the Chinese have had a secret. A secret that helps to increase longevity and assists the body to heal from injury, illness and trauma.
That secret is qigong – a deep, meditative breathing and movement exercise that connects the mind to the body.
The main reasons why people learn qigong are to manage and reduce stress, and improve their overall health and well-being.
Qigong is about releasing stress, not suppressing it. Through special qigong breathing you can learn how to let go of stress so you can enjoy more of the good and creative things in life.
What is sensory or 5-senses nature journaling?
Sensory journaling
With sensory journaling, you focus on your five senses to tune into and enjoy the world around you. It’s a pleasant adventure in noticing, savouring and to feel truly alive.
It can be done anywhere – on your deck, garden, street, or even near an open window!
Journaling is not just writing. You can draw, doodle, trace around objects, etc, as part of focusing with each of your five senses: sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste.
This type of journaling helps you to calm your mind and to relax into the present moment, which will help you to reduce worrying, relieve anxiety and to begin to live the life you really want.
Jocelyn learned about the power of journaling when recovering from post-traumatic stress nearly 25 years ago. It enabled her to break the grip that stress had on her and also freed her thoughts to plan for a better and different life.
Testimonial: “Jocelyn was very relatable because quite often what was being taught had been used by her in real life.” (Participant in the Stardome mini-retreat, March 2022)
Cancellation policy
The workshop must be paid for in full to reserve your place.
Refunds are available through Ōtorohanga Creative Conduit up to four days prior to the workshop. Not refundable if less than four days prior to the workshop.
In the unlikely event that Ōtorohanga Creative Conduit cancels the workshop, you will be refunded in full.
If you are unwell on 22 September
Please do not attend if you are sick or have cold or ‘flu-like symptoms.
All participants will need to respect the need for social distancing at all times during the workshop. Anyone is welcome to wear a face mask if they wish. There will not be any paired exercises or touching by others.
The room will be well-ventilated and hand sanitiser will be provided.
We will abide by the NZ Government’s health advice and regulations as they apply at the time of this workshop
Jocelyn (the instructor) has been fully vaccinated for Covid-19.
I would love you to join me for this immersive workshop, which will inspire your creative flow with the art of tai chi.
Earth art, created by Jocelyn
Earth art, created by Jocelyn
by Jocelyn Watkin | Jun 9, 2024 | Information |
All ages and abilities welcome for FREE tai chi in the park for the official Matariki holiday.
When: Friday 28 June 2024, 11 – 11.45am
Where: Kauri Point Reserve in Wattle Downs, Manurewa, which is at the end of a street called “Moor Park”. Refer to map: https://goo.gl/maps/MZHeqttC5rBeL6mu9
This is an outdoor event so wrap up warm, pop on a beanie and join in.
Matariki is a time to focus on mindfulness, reflection, thankfulness, well-being and health. The three key principles are:
- Matariki Hunga Nui. Remembrance. Honouring those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki.
- Matariki Ahunga Nui. Celebrating the Present. Gathering together to give thanks for what we have.
- Matariki Manako Nui. Looking to the Future. Looking forward to the promise of a new year.
The theme for 2024 is “Matariki heri kai” and comes from the Māori proverb ‘Matariki whetū heri kai’ meaning ‘Matariki, the bringer of food’.
To acknowledge Matariki and to celebrate life in the present moment, we will gather together for a shared morning tea after the tai chi session. All welcome and please bring some kai/food to share.
Cancellation notice: This session will need fine weather to go ahead. If the ground is too wet or the weather doesn’t co-operate, please look for the cancellation notice by 9am on 28 June on the Kia Ora Tai Chi facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/kiaorataichi/
For more information, get in touch with Jocelyn through the Contact Us page on this website: https://www.kiaorataichi.nz/contact-us/
Find out more about Matariki: https://www.matariki.com/about
by Jocelyn Watkin | Feb 21, 2024 | Information |
A fusion of Chinese and Pākeha tai chi instructors, who are both Kiwis: Juliana (on the left) and Jocelyn
Embark on a tai chi adventure with us to experience Tai Chi for Fun and Energy. There’ll be six FREE opportunities to learn and these will happen across Ranui, Te Atatū and Manurewa for the 2024 World of Cultures Festival.
Tai chi is an ancient martial art from China, which you will learn from Jocelyn, Kia Ora Tai Chi and Juliana, Aroha Tai Chi. Together, we will provide an amazing teaching combo as we are an awesome fusion of Chinese and Pākeha Kiwis.
As well as health-boosting tai chi you will also experience the energy and exhilaration of the tai chi fan. This will be an unforgettable experience with the brilliant colour and movement of the fan, and the delightful snap of it opening. If you’re a seasoned practitioner this will add an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to your tai chi.
Adults of any age and ability will be welcome, especially newcomers, to learn this unique and fun form of tai chi. Children aged 5+ will be also be very welcome, if accompanied by an adult.
Fun with tai chi fans,. Juliana is centre left (in black shirt) and Jocelyn is centre right (wearing red shoes)
Join Jocelyn and Juliana for one, two or all six of these 1-hour, FREE Tai Chi for Fun and Energy sessions. Ideal for beginners. Fans (free on loan) will be provided.
Friday 22 March, 2024: 9.15 – 10.15am, Ranui
- Ranui Community Centre: 474 Swanson Road, Ranui, 0612
- Places limited to maximum of 20. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to: Juliana, Email: arohataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 021 905 742
Saturday 23 March, 2024: 10.15am – 11.15am, Te Atatū
- Te Atatū Peninsula Community Centre: 595 Te Atatū Road, Te Atatū Peninsula, 0610
- Places limited to maximum of 20. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to: Juliana, Email: arohataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 021 905 742
***CANCELLED*** Good Friday 29 March 2024, 9.15am – 10.15am, Ranui Domain, ***CANCELLED***
Easter Saturday 30 March, 2024, 10.15am – 11.15am, Te Atatū
- Te Atatū Peninsula Community Centre: 595 Te Atatū Road, Te Atatū Peninsula, 0610
- Places limited to maximum of 20. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to: Juliana, Email: arohataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 021 905 742
Easter Saturday 30 March, 2024, 2.30pm – 3.30pm, Manurewa
- The Theatre, at Nathan Homestead, 70 Hill Road, Manurewa, 2102
- Places limited to maximum of 35. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to Jocelyn, Email: kiaorataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 027 493 9851
Friday 12 April, 2024: 9.15 – 10.15am, Ranui
- Ranui Community Centre: 474 Swanson Road, Ranui, 0612
- Places limited to maximum of 20. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to: Juliana, Email: arohataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 021 905 742
Saturday 13 April, 2024, 2.30pm – 3.30pm, Manurewa
- The Theatre, at Nathan Homestead, 70 Hill Road, Manurewa, 2102
- Places limited to maximum of 35. Children aged 5+ will be welcome if accompanied by an adult.
- RSVP to Jocelyn, Email: kiaorataichi@gmail.com or Ph/text: 027 493 9851
Nathan Homestead, Manurewa
What to wear: Loose comfortable clothing along with something warm like a hoodie, jumper, cardigan, etc. Please wear flat-soled shoes such as sneakers, trainers or tennis shoes. Please also bring a bottle of drinking water.
What to expect: All of the sessions will begin with a sequence of easy, flowing, warm-up exercises that will be low impact and gentle on your joints. These exercises are designed to improve your balance, overall health and core strength. You can use a fan for free on the day.
Jocelyn and Juliana will then guide you through health-boosting tai chi – a series of linked steps and movements that will be fun and easy-to-learn.
We will finish with the tai chi fan form – a captivating fusion of martial arts and grace, with vibrant sound effects and colour. We’ll teach you how to wield the fan with finesse and flair.
What is tai chi?
Often described as “moving meditation”, tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art and exercise programme that combines mental focus with relaxed movements. It is sometimes referred to as “taiji” or “tai chi chuan”.
Tai chi not just a physical exercise but a holistic journey towards balance, vitality and greater well-being.
Adults of any age and ability, and children aged 5+ (with an accompanying adult), are all welcome. Places are limited so please RSVP ahead of time.
Come join us, bring your smiles, and let’s make unforgettable memories together with tai chi.
Our Tai Chi for Fun and Energy events are part of the official programme for Auckland Council’s 2024 World of Cultures Festival.
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