It’s always motivating to see people making a living doing something they love. Chesham dweller Pat Khaihra is doing exactly that, having established her Tai Chi School (C.A.T.S) over the last 11 years, running classes across Chesham and Amersham, within local halls and outside in the gardens when the weather is fine.
Born in Thailand, raised in London, Pat has lived in Chesham for the last 28 years. She and her husband moved here from North London’s Muswell Hill, seeking the countryside to raise their family. “The first time we came to Chesham, we drove in through Amersham, down that hill, and that was it. We knew this was the place.” Her favourite local gems include Lacey’s Yard for its holistic therapies, St Mary’s Church (“it’s idyllic and old…”) and Lowndes Park. Pat used to work in interior design, a career that she trained for around family life, which allowed her to be present for her children when they were small. In her mid thirties, Pat turned to Tai Chi to address unresolved health issues, and hasn’t stopped since. Now her primary focus, for Pat Tai Chi is an art that offers constant learning and improvement. Although a teacher, she is also a perpetual student with a life long commitment to Tai Chi.
In addition to her weekly classes, Pat organises weekend workshops and retreats in the UK and abroad, where students can focus themselves on their learning, whilst forging friendships and having a break. “We’re like one big family, which is another aspect to Tai Chi”. The students and Pat bring homemade cake and biscuits to the weekend workshops – “we’re not worried about a few calories” – and Pat also holds social events, taking over the entire Jasmine Thai restaurant for the last one.
To learn more about Pat’s Tai Chi classes, you can call 01494 771675 / 07885 856 029 or visit her website Chesham and Amersham Tai Chi school. See the gallery to get a taste, though Tai Chi as a practice is very private and rarely photographed.
Chesham Tales 