Peter Ralston
Since 2000, Peter's yearly visits to the UK have turned into a tradition. His unorthodox approach and no-nonsense teaching style have made him a favourite of experienced martial artists and newcomers alike. He is an authority in his field, the Muhammad Ali of the internal martial arts. After years of intense investigation of his own mind, body, and the martial arts, this former full-contact free-fight world champion founded the Cheng Hsin School of internal martial arts.

The essence of all his teachings is relaxation and understanding the internal principles, both mentally and physically. Through an elucidating progression of lessons Peter shares with students the foundations of his high level of skill.

Cheng Hsin T’ui Shou Camp
Seven days of working on the principles and techniques of effective internal martial arts according to the insights of Peter through the study of Cheng Hsin T’ui Shou, a dynamic blend of Tai Chi, Pa Kua and Aikido with uprooting, throwing, footwork, and lots of internal work on relaxation, out-reaching, intention, balance and freeing up ineffective mental patterns. A great workshop, enjoyed by Aikido enthusiasts and Chinese internal martial artists alike.

Cheng Hsin Body Being

This workshop will give you the principles of an internal martial art. True relaxation combined with body alignment is fundamental to the arts of Cheng Hsin. Intrinsic strength in which no muscle contraction is needed or wanted. Grounding, balance, moving from the centre of the body and being whole and total are some of the topics. The influence of body awareness and ”energy” work will also be explored. In addition to martial enthusiasts, people as diverse as dancers, musicians, body workers and even chefs have found this work to be helpful for increasing body awareness and skill.

Tai Chi Chuan
Mini set and the short set of 64 moves. The accent lies on how the Cheng Hsin Principles (relaxation grounding, centring, being calm and being whole and total) express themselves within the form. Peter is very precise and patient in repeating and correcting.
It is possible to enlist without any knowledge of Tai Chi Chuan.

A Word from Peter

Until a recent series of comments from students, it hadn't occurred to me that someone might be intimidated by Cheng Hsin. It seems the depth and scope of this work can appear daunting or beyond access once people get a glimpse of how much is available. Some people think it might be too hard for them, or too advanced. But no matter what level of ability you start out with, you will be included in any workshop you attend. We all learn together, and have fun doing it.

Don’t be afraid - Cheng Hsin starts with you the way that you are right now. At its heart, it is a study of you, and possibilities that you’ve yet to recognise or fully develop. Cheng Hsin translates as "true being." This means YOU! Whether it's body-being, martial, or consciousness work, or all three, it's a study by you of your own experience. Working with others who are doing the same, greatly accelerates your learning. All who participate make progress, and all are welcome. If you're shy, bring that with you. If you don't understand or are afraid, bring all that as well. Everyone brings something to the work, and we hear this all too often: "I wish I'd started sooner!" So consider this an invitation to come join us in person.