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Draft:George Thompson - Filmmaker, Storyteller and Explorer

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George Thompson (born 4th February 1995) is a British filmmaker, tai chi teacher and Taoist communicator. He explores some of the biggest personal and collective challenges facing us today, and shares what he has learnt in a down to earth, fun and accessible way.

His 18-person organisation, Balance is Possible![1] is on a mission to create films, communities and transformative education that help people and planet live in balance.

George's journey started in 2017 when after completing his education, he was overwhelmed by anxiety and a sense of meaningless. In search of answers, he ventured to the Wudang mountains of China, where he studied tai chi and Taoism under the guidance of Master Gu.[2] Immersing himself in these ancient practices, George discovered the principles of balance, harmony and flow. These insights became the foundation of his philosophy.

Returning from China, George felt a calling to explore how these ancient teachings could be applied in a modern, often chaotic world. Using his skill as a filmmaker, George created a YouTube channel[3] to share his knowledge and teachings, frequently returning to China to develop his studies further. Over the last 7 years, George has amassed over 251,000 YouTube subscribers and now has the largest online tai chi academy[4] in the world.

In George's own words, "Daoism has changed my life. Over the past 8 years I have studied Daoism in China with my Tai Chi Master, Master Gu. I've learned not to take my harsh inner critic so seriously. I've felt more joyful and connected to our beautiful living planet. I better understand our societal problems and the way back to balance. I am no Master or Guru, I am simply a life long student of the Dao."

He created the free Wayfinders[5] online community for fellow life explorers to discuss Taoism, movement practices and sustainability.

In January 2022, he started the podcast 'On the Way with George Thompson'[6] which explores Taoism, living well and sustainability with some of the most interesting minds in the world. As of July 2024, he is now the co-presenter of the popular Taoist podcast, 'What's This Tao All About?'[7] with journalist Tod Perry.

His first feature film, 'Journey to the East'[8] was released on YouTube on 30th May 2021, documenting his initial travels to China and how the ancient wisdom he discovered can provide answers to humanity's biggest challenges. His second feature film, 'The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself'[9] with executive producer Louie Schwartzberg (of Fantastic Fungi) will premiere in London, UK on 19th October 2024 before being released to the public on 28th October 2024. Filmed in the stunning Cairngorms of Scotland, this film delves into the wisdom of nature and what it can teach us about reconnecting with ourselves.

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