A small group allows the practice to be experienced closely - with space for individual guidance, questions and attention to detail.
Throughout the week, Thomas teaches through demonstration, observation and direct interaction, helping each person understand and develop their practice.
Set among the rice fields of Ubud, Dragonfly Village offers a natural setting for retreat. Surrounded by greenery and traditional wooden structures, the village is designed around simple, conscious living and a close relationship with its environment. Tucked away from the bustle of Ubud, it gives us space to train, rest and share the experience together, with the surrounding rice fields and countryside close at hand.
A retreat rhythm designed to cultivate both calm awareness and dynamic skill.
A considered rhythm of focused practice, shared learning, rest, and time to experience Bali.
A calm and meditative practice focused on breath, posture and mindful movement. Through Chi Kung, Walking Meditation and Shuang Yang, students develop coordination, awareness and a grounded connection to the body.
A generous midday space to eat, rest, recover and enjoy the surroundings. There is time to swim, rest, enjoy a massage or sauna session, or simply do nothing. This is an intentional part of the retreat — not empty time between classes.
A dynamic practice combining traditional Kung Fu, conditioning, stretching and partner work. The session develops strength, coordination, confidence and practical skill.
One full day of the retreat is kept free from formal training. It is a day to rest, explore and enjoy Bali together. Depending on the group and practical arrangements, we may organise a waterfall visit and/or spa experience. The evening may remain simple with sauna, dinner and a bonfire, with an optional dinner out for those who would like to join.
The morning and afternoon practices are interconnected, each enriching the other as part of the Nam Yang system. Together with the periods of rest, shared meals, conversation and the integration day, they create a rhythm of focused practice, recovery and shared experience.
Beyond the training, the week unfolds through shared meals, tea and conversation, and time to experience Bali together. There is space to connect, explore, and simply enjoy being part of the group.
Thomas teaches with close attention to the individual. Rather than overwhelming students with corrections, he looks for the few things that will make the greatest difference to their movement. Once the foundations are clear, the smaller details can develop naturally through practice.
Every student learns differently. When something is difficult, Thomas may slow the movement down, break it into simpler parts, use a different explanation or metaphor, or simply give the student more time to repeat and feel it. His aim is not only to teach the movement, but to help each person develop greater body awareness, coordination and trust in their own movement.
“The eye of the teacher makes the difference.”
For Thomas, teaching is part of being an eternal student of the arts and of life. In a small group, there is space for that attention to remain personal. Through observation, physical guidance, encouragement and direct interaction, he helps students connect more deeply with their centre, their movement and the ground beneath them. Over time, the practice becomes less something to think about and more something to embody, bringing greater efficiency, awareness and calm into everyday life.
Dragonfly's bungalows are built from traditional and recycled teak wood, with open terraces facing the surrounding greenery and rice fields. The rooms are fan-cooled and designed to remain closely connected to the natural environment.
All meals are included during the retreat, with food prepared at Dragonfly Café. Meals are shared as part of the rhythm of the week, giving everyone time to eat well and spend time together between practices.
Between practices, there is space to slow down, swim and enjoy the surroundings. Dragonfly has a 12-metre saltwater pool, herbal steam sauna and massage services. The retreat includes one massage and one sauna session, with the sauna currently planned for the day off.
The retreat is designed around a simple rhythm: train, rest, eat together and recover. Dragonfly gives us a place to live within that rhythm, with nature close by and enough space between sessions to slow down and enjoy the week.
A week for those who want to step into the practice, learn with personal guidance, and give themselves space to move differently.
For people curious about Traditional Kung Fu and Chi Kung, whether completely new to the practice or already familiar with it.
For people who value close guidance, individual corrections and the attention that becomes possible within a small, focused group.
For those who want to step away from the demands of everyday life and give their attention to movement, practice and themselves.
A few words from people who have trained with Thomas.
“What I appreciated most about the Kung Fu retreat was the personal approach and the genuine attention given to each individual. Thomas has a unique way of teaching Kung Fu, not just as a martial art, but as a way of life.”
“Thomas is very knowledgeable, methodical and committed to training Kung Fu. His calm, supportive and interactive approach is very helpful for both beginners and experienced attendees.”
“Thomas is a thoughtful, considerate teacher who takes a lot of time to explain, correct, and share not only the practice itself but also its history and background.”
“I loved the combination of daily QiGong & KungFu training, learning something new, being physically active, and free time to relax, enjoying great company and good food!”
“The retreat was a perfect introduction to kung fu and gave me hunger for more. Thomas is a very good teacher who explains the movements well and adapts them to our individual abilities.”
21–27 February 2027 · Dragonfly Village, Bali
Deposit: USD 300
7-day retreat · Accommodation · All meals · Traditional Kung Fu & Chi Kung · Pool · 1 massage · 1 sauna session
Flights · Airport transfer ($30 per transfer) · Additional nights · Personal expenses · Optional activities
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