FEELING stressed and lacking energy?. Perhaps you're a little low on self-confidence.

Let's face it most of us are affected by these feelings at some point.

Well, why not regain that sense of well-being and realign your qi, or energy, with a spot of Weihai Li Shi Quan Fa.

Kendal's YWCA on Stricklandgate now offers a class based on wu shu, the ancient Chinese system of exercise dating back to 1000BC, which promises many health benefits regardless of your fitness and age and whether you can actually pronounce it.

The class, taken by National Open College Network accredited coach Paul Lowry, has been drawing participants of all ages and abilities.

"The beauty of Weihai Li Shi Quan Fa is that it can be adapted to suit any level of ability and then more specific health problems."

As well as demanding exercises to push you to your limit there are low intensity sessions with therapeutic and remedial rewards.

The elderly, for example, can improve balance by employing the system on an holistic level, bringing into play exercises requiring concentration and focusing of the mind.

The Kendal sessions take place every Tuesday from 7-10pm, and are made up of three components of the traditional Chinese arts to ensure benefits for all who attend.

For the less active, why not try increasing internal energy levels with some tai ji quan - a form of long flowing movements which aid inner peace and, with a little Taoist yoga, combining gentle exercise, concentration and breath control, develop your body and mind.

If you're feeling a little more adventurous and fancy upping the pace, from 8.30pm onwards the class focuses on feng shou, a fast, light and dynamic form of self-defence.

Mr Lowry, who hails from Leeds, has been practising the art for eight years and teaching for three, and he insists that no part is aggressive. "Although the system includes partner-based exercises, there's no element of competition as the idea is to encourage each other to develop skills," he said.

With the added incentive of prolonged life, there really is no excuse not to try this fun-filled escape from the stresses of modern-life.

For more information on the classes, telephone 0774-087-0848.