ABOUT MARK POGSON

Mark has practiced Tai Chi and Qigong since the mid 1980’s, attending his first class while studying for an Environmental Science degree at Plymouth Polytechnic. During this time he lived on the edge of Dartmoor and developed an interest in Deep Ecology, Oriental Philosophy and walking.

In 1986, having moved back to London, Mark began to study Tai Chi more seriously, with the Taoist Tai Chi Society of Great Britain, founded by Master Moy Lin Shin.

After voluntary nature conservation work with BTCV and the RSPB, Mark worked in environmental education for the RSPB. During this time, through practicing Tai Chi in a rural setting, Mark realised the deeper benefits of practicing outdoors and the value of a clean environment and sense of wilderness.

In 1991, Mark moved to Manchester and furthered his Tai Chi study with Dr. Paul Tien (original Yang style school of Tai Chi) and Qigong practice with Sifu Michael Tse.

In 1997, Mark attained a 3-year diploma in Shiatsu with The Shiatsu School, formerly the British Shiatsu Association under the tutelage of Christine Perardel. He became professionally qualified in 1999 (MRSS) and has practiced in Wells, Somerset since 2001. Mark also practices in Glastonbury and Bath. 

For nearly 8 years Mark worked for Manchester Social Services, supporting people with learning and physical disabilities. During this time he utilised his Shiatsu skills with service users. He also provided treatments for staff as part of the Local Authority stress reduction programme for staff.

In Somerset Mark now divides his time between his Shiatsu practice, teaching Qigong, and a busy family life. Living close to nature, his work emphasises the link between energy cultivation and the natural world, and embraces the insights offered by using the Chinese 5 elements as a framework for practice.

Mark set up SSOHA as an umbrella organisation to expand his work and deepen his personal practice in Chi/energy based practices of the Orient.

Mark’s inspirations include Taoist sages, Buddhism, the beat poets, Joseph Campbell and William Morris.

Contact details

Telephone: 01749 672944
Mail: mark@SSOHA.org.uk