Trauma-Informed Martial Arts at Rhi Wing Chun Kung Fu:
Over the past few decades, advancements in trauma research have highlighted the therapeutic value of martial arts for individuals with lived experience of trauma and other mental health considerations (Van der Kolk, 2014).
While Rhi Wing Chun Kung Fu is not a therapeutic group, it embraces a trauma-informed teaching and training approach, recognising that most people have encountered some form of trauma in their lives—often through violence. A person does not need to identify with trauma to attend classes, as a trauma-informed approach benefits everyone.
Core Principles of Trauma-Informed Practice:
Rhi Wing Chun Kung Fu integrates the following principles into its training environment:
- Safety – Creating a secure and supportive space for all students.
- Trustworthiness – Ensuring consistency, transparency, and clear communication.
- Collaboration – Encouraging shared learning and mutual respect.
- Empowerment & Choice – Allowing students autonomy in their training journey.
- Respect for Diversity – Valuing all identities, backgrounds, and lived experiences.
Commitment to Non-Violence & Consent:
Rhi Wing Chun Kung Fu is committed to non-violence in all forms—physical, psychological, emotional, and cultural. The practice of Wing Chun is the art of consensual fighting, which is fundamentally different from acts of violence, as violence is inherently non-consensual.
Importantly, Rhi Wing Chun Kung Fu never positions individuals who have experienced violence as responsible for their own protection. Those who choose to use violence must be held accountable for their actions.
A Space for Women, Girls, & LGBTIQA+ Communities:
Women, girls, and individuals from the LGBTIQA+ community are disproportionately at higher risk of violence. Rhi Wing Chun Kung Fu was established to specifically cater to these populations, fostering an inclusive, empowering, and supportive training environment.
Trauma-Informed Training & Education:
In addition to martial arts classes, Sifu Rhi delivers custom trauma-informed workshops and training programsacross the community sector. These sessions draw on their expertise in Social Work and Wing Chun, with a focus on:
- Empowerment & Embodiment
- Mental Resilience & Emotional Regulation
- Collective Care & Self-Compassion
- Self-Defence (within a trauma-informed framework)
These programs are designed to equip participants with skills beyond self-defence, promoting confidence, awareness, and holistic well-being.
📖 Reference
Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Viking.
Rhi Wing Chun Kung Fu Mission Statement
A trauma informed approach that integrates mind and body with the aim to develop inner harmony, self confidence and solidarity. To guide students through the traditional art of Wing Chun Kung Fu, for women and all those in the LGBTQA+ community.