A CHINESE martial art which developed into a health exercise practised by millions across the globe has benefited youngsters at a Keighley school.

An instructor has been running tai chi classes at Worth Valley Primary School.

Emelia May, founder of Wharfedale School of taekwondo, teaches a form of this exercise called Infinite tai chi, as well as chi kung exercises and meditation.

She explained: "Last October, I was asked if I’d go into the school and spend the morning with various year groups teaching a taster of taekwondo, tai chi and meditation to each class.

"There was a great response from both teachers and students, and early this year I was asked if I'd go into the school one day a week to teach Infinite tai chi, chi kung and meditation to various classes."

The children at Worth Valley Primary began practising in April this year and have continued through into the summer.

Miss May, who has a 22-year background in different types of complimentary therapies, added: "One aim has been to help the children gain the ability to balance their internal and external world.

"The focus of practise is to learn to harmonise their energies. They understand the meaning of inner stillness and what it is to stay centred.

"The chi kung exercises and the idea behind the slow movements of the Infinite tai chi form was an alien concept at first and quite a challenge for some pupils, while others were naturals."

She said she hopes to be able to return to Worth Valley Primary in September, and would also like to share her experience and training with other local schools.

Miss May said: "It's perfect for exam stress, whether those exams are SATs, GCSEs or A Levels.

"Teaching children from reception and through their primary years helps to instil a practise that can be used at these tense times and for the rest of their lives.

"Infinite tai chi goes beyond words. The practise has the potential to increase physical health, aid confidence, focus the mind, and bring out the best in one's self. These make for strong foundations and good life skills.

"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed introducing it to primary school. I feel it's a ‘missing link’ in today's world – the ability to be still and to know thyself.

"It's quite amazing for the little ones to gain this value and wisdom at such a young age."

Miss May also teaches an adults class at the East Morton Institute on Thursdays from 8pm to 9pm and at Space Fitness and Wellbeing in Burley in Wharfedale on Fridays from 10.30am to 11.30am.