International Liaison
Norbert Strehlow
- International Coordination
- Guest Support
- Cultural Liaison
Before dedicating much of his time to the study of traditional Chinese arts, Norbert served in the German Air Force, where he flew the F-4F Phantom II until 2012. His professional background shaped his sense of discipline, commitment, and continuous learning — qualities that continue to influence his approach to Qigong, Taichi, and the traditional Chinese martial arts.
Norbert’s journey into these traditions began in 2005, following two battles with cancer in 2004. During this challenging period of his life, he discovered Qigong, which became an important source of support and inspiration and sparked a lifelong interest in the Chinese internal arts.
Unable to find suitable teachers in his local area in Germany, Norbert decided to pursue his own training. He completed two Qigong training programmes in Germany and began teaching Qigong in 2010, sharing with others what he had learned through his own experience and practice.
Since 2014, Norbert has travelled regularly to China to deepen his understanding of Chinese movement arts and traditions. He now sometimes spends up to six months a year in China, continuing his studies and learning directly from experienced masters. His practice has expanded to include Tai Chi, which he began studying in 2018, and Liang Yi Chuan, which he started in 2024, alongside his ongoing exploration of Chinese martial arts.
Over the years, Norbert has learned that finding the right master is a journey in itself. A master who initially seems right may not ultimately be the right one. Finding a true master — someone whose knowledge, experience, understanding, and approach genuinely resonate with the student — takes time, patience, and dedication. This search is an essential part of the journey, whether in Qigong, Tai Chi, or Liang Yi Chuan. Through his own experiences, Norbert has developed a deep appreciation for the richness of these traditions and for the importance of finding a master who can guide one’s development in the right direction.
At Kung Fu Zen, Norbert works closely with Li Nian Yi to support the organisation and delivery of retreats and cultural journeys in China. As International Liaison, he helps connect international participants with Kung Fu Zen, assists with travel preparation and practical matters related to China, and supports communication across languages and cultures. During retreats, he also helps with translation and participant support.
His years of practice, combined with his extensive experience of travelling and spending time in China, allow him to understand the questions and concerns international participants may have. From navigating everyday practicalities to understanding the cultural context of their experience, Norbert helps participants feel better prepared and more at ease, allowing them to focus on their learning and their time in China.
Norbert also runs his own Qigong website in Germany, where he shares further information about his practice and experience:
