Yang-Sheng Columnists

 

Ken Andes, L.Ac. – a licensed acupuncturist, Chinese herbalist, and Medical Qigong practitioner, Mr. Andes has studied Qigong since 1989, and has taught Qigong since 1997. His greatest influence has been Master He Binhui, whom he studied Taiji Five-element Qigong. In addition to his full-time Chinese Medicine practice in Ramsey, New Jersey, he participates in National Institutes of Health (NIH) funded research, on the applications of medical Qigong to cocaine addiction, and Mr. Andes is also an avid practitioner of Zingyiquan Kung Fu.

Timothy Booth — a Freelance Musician and Composer in Toronto Canada. Timothy Booth has been practicing Qigong for over 15 yrs., is a member of the National Qigong Association and is the Director of Integral Qigong. He currently instructs private and group Qigong classes in Toronto.  He has studied with some of the greatest western Masters of Qigong such as Ken Cohen, and Eric Reynolds, direct student of Dr. John Painter.  In 1998 He obtained Certificate of Attainment- Senior Level in Baguazhang-from Emerge Internal Arts Tai Chi and Meditation Centre.  He can be reached through his blog at http://integral96.wordpress.com

Cindy Borgonzi-Areglado – a certified Tai Chi, Qigong, Zumba Gold instructor, and Whole Health Educator. Ms. Borgonzi holds a Masters degree in Adult Education, and over the last 5 years, has specialized in health and wellness of the whole person, including weight loss and fitness training. Ms. Borgonzi’s experience and passion is working with and inspiring individuals of all ages to live healthier and happier for a lifetime.  She is working to apply the principals and methods of positive psychology into people’s daily life.

Eric Borreson – a student and teacher, finds teaching tai chi, qigong, and meditation to be a path to a more meaningful life. Eric is the founder and director of Meditation in Motion, specializing in teaching about living healthier and happier lives. He is a Master Instructor in the Therapeutic Tai Chi system. He teaches tai chi and qigong at the prestigious Heartland Spa, a top 10 destination spa, in Gilman, IL. In addition, he teaches tai chi (Therapeutic Tai Chi, Yang 24, Dr. Lam’s Tai Chi for Arthritis, and Dr. Lam’s Tai Chi for Diabetes) at other venues. He teaches private lessons on request. He writes a weekly wellness column at http://eric-taichi.blogspot.com.

Shawn Cartwright, MBA – is the Executive Director of the Traditional Chinese Culture Institute International (TCCII). As a co-founder of TCCII, he is dedicated to promoting deeper and broader understanding of the Chinese cultural traditions, and works tirelessly to revitalize the traditions that have special meaning and relevance to today’s world. He provides a diverse curriculum and rich experience for his students, drawn from his many years of intensive training in Internal Alchemy, Qigong, Tai Chi, Xingyiquan, Baguazhang, and Fujian Baihequan. A consistent practitioner of both the martial and healing arts, he excels in helping students connect the principles with practice, and integrate them into their daily life. To better bridge the Eastern and Western cultures, Mr. Cartwright hosts the Silent Tao blog (www.silenttao.com) and TCCII video channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/tccii) where he shares the rich context and first-hand experiences in his study of Chinese culture. He co-authored and produced the Chinese Classical Meditation CD Series and training DVDs on Qigong, Tai Chi Chuan and Kung Fu. Mr. Cartwright earned his MBA and BS from Vanderbilt University. He studied public health at Johns Hopkins University.

Salvatore Casano R.N., PhD – a registered nurse with a PhD in Holistic Health, and is an ATCQZ certified Tai Chi and Qigong instructor. His Tai Chi and Qigong journey began over 20 years ago while working as a chemistry instructor, when he felt the need for a more holistic approach to health care. Participating in many programs and projects relating to health, Dr. Casano educates the community on living a healthier lifestyle to avoid obesity and diabetes, and as a way to reduce stress. Over the years, he has learned from many masters including Bill Philips, Marc Issacs, Richard Chu, as well as two ATCQA advisors, Dr. Roger Jahnke, and Bill Douglas. Dr. Casano, along with his wife Veronica, often sojourn together on his healing path, as they use their skills in helping others connect the mind, body, and spirit. They have four adult children, seven grandchildren, and a cat, “Tiger”.

Effie P.Y. Chow, PhD, RN, LAc (CA),– founder and President of East West Academy of Healing Arts, Dr. Chow is a recognized expert in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), a world-renowned qigong energy healer, acupuncturist, author, international speaker, Humanitarian, and Visionary. She wielded the female influence in the world at a time when it was only talked about.   As a practitioner, Dr. Chow specializes in successfully working with critical clients and stress-related conditions for whom all else has failed.  In 2000, she was appointed by President Clinton to the White House Commission on CAM  Policy. Dr. Chow is the only Qigong Grandmaster-Nurse-Acupuncturist in North America who has been active in the development of national health policies within (DHHS) the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. You may visit her institutional web site at www.eastwestqi.com .

Cindy Cicero (Sifu Cicero) is a bio-energy healer and instructor.  She is the Director of Operations for the Online School of Chi Energy Heals and in business since 1998.  The curriculum is an alternative and complementary bio-energy method that supports health and wellness programs.  Sifu Cindy has received private instruction and training that far surpasses her abilities acquired from other energy systems with teacher Sifu Robin Jones. Sifu Jones has an extensive background in internal energy work with 40+ years as a Kung Fu Martial Artist.  And he has revealed to her the mysteries behind healing powers of bio-electricity as way to optimal health and advanced healing.  For more bio info please visit www.chienergyheals.com

Chris D’Adamo, PhD – Dr. Chris D’Adamo is an epidemiologist interested in research and program evaluation assessing the synergistic roles of nutrition, exercise, and other healthy lifestyle practices in the prevention of chronic disease. He received his Ph.D. in Epidemiology from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and is currently an Assistant Professor with the Center for Integrative Medicine in the Department of Family & Community Medicine. Chris is also a Certified Personal Trainer through the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and a Certified Sports Nutrition Consultant through the International Sports Medicine Association (ISMA). He maintains a personal training and nutritional consulting practice incorporating the latest research findings into program development for his clients.

Felice Dunas, PhD – internationally acclaimed intimacy and wellness expert, she is an acupuncture industry founder, international lecturer, published author, and executive coach. Dr. Dunas earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and International Health Care from UCLA, and her Doctorate degree in Clinical Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology from Samra University. She uses ancient principles of the body and human behavior to enhance the lives of individuals, couples and corporate executives. Having lectured in over 60 countries, she addresses health, vitality, interpersonal intimacy and sexuality. Dr. Dunas is the author of the best selling book, “Passion Play” – Ancient Secrets for a Lifetime of Health and Happiness Thorough Sensational Sex”.

Debi Dunn, MBA, is a Certified Level III Advanced Qigong Instructor through the National Qigong Association.  She is also a professor of Stress Management at West Chester University, West Chester, PA, and holds additional certifications in yoga, meditation, Reiki, and is an EFT (emotional freedom technique) practitioner.  Debi scripted and co-produced two “Qigong for Everyone” dvds, “The Basics”, and “Designing Your Own Practice”, and a meditation cd, “Tranquil Journeys”.  She has studied qigong and t’ai chi with Master Nan Lu, Dr. Yang Jwing-Ming, Brother Bernard Seif, Sifu Sara Gellhorn, and Ken Cohen.  Debi also presents meeting breaks and stress management workshops at a variety of major corporations.  In 2001, Debi survived successful brain surgery to remove a benign tumor and began to question her soul’s purpose in life after 20 years in corporate life.  She rediscovered her true inner self and rededicated her life’s work to becoming a compassionate healing presence for others.  As a holistic educator, she teaches students and clients how to take charge of their body-mind-spirit balance through integrated healing modalities.  www.theheartofhealing.com

Marty Eisen, PhD – a retired scientist, who constructed mathematical models in medicine. He has studied and taught Judo, Shotokan Karate, Aikido, Qigong, Praying Mantis Kung Fu, and Tai Chi. Dr. Eisen studied Chinese herbology, as well as other branches of Chinese medicine, and was the Director of Education of the Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Institute in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. For more information about Dr. Eisen please visit http://home.comcast.net/~carolezak.

Katrina Everhart, M.A.– grew up in LA, earned her Bachelor’s at Stephens; Masters at University of Missouri, and is ABD at Walden University. Specializing in conflict resolution/mediation, qualitative/quantitative research, systems theory, organizational behavior, project management, competitors, integrative medicine/research, in stress, productivity, innovation, and decision making. She’s worked in China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the U.S., training & conducting product research, product/service development and marketing. Past projects include Sprint’s DSL, Talking Call Waiting, P&G Floor Care, American Express’s Leadership Development. An author, Certified Project Manager, Mediator, Researcher, Indexer, Parliamentarian, and WoodCarver, she manages her 180 year-old cattle farm and volunteers in Civil Air Patrol, USAF Auxiliary.

Ginger Garner MPT, ATC — is an educator and subject matter expert in medical therapeutic yoga and women’s health. As a published author and sought after speaker, Ginger pens the popular blog for mothers — Breathing In This Life (BITL –which is one of the columns in Yang-Sheng magazine and network).  Ginger is founder of Professional Yoga Therapy (PYT), the first education program for Complementary and Alternative Medicine practice in medical therapeutic yoga in the US.  Ginger’s focus is on education and activism for maternal and child health – through BITL, her school, PYT, through the organization she founded for Haiti relief in 2009, Musicians 4 Missions, and her work with the Initiative to Educate Afghan Women.   Ginger has spoken and performed across the US to educate people about medical yoga and to raise awareness and funds for improving women’s health.   As a working mother of three she has learned a thing or two about finding work/life balance through the healing arts, which she shares through BITL, at www.gingergarner.blogspot.com.  See Ginger’s work at www.gingergarner.com.

Shiuan Gee, — author, former journalist and editor of “Health and Life” Chinese Newspaper.   Published book: Philosophy Prose Collection “Thoughts on Life”;   Documentary literature “The Night of New Orleans”, etc.  Unpublished book: Novel “The little Sparrows Flew Away”.   Also as an Amateur Health food cooking chef and Gourmet, she is writing a Dietotherapy book:  “Amazing Food—Health Diet 101”, Subtitle “How can get Benefits from Your Daily Diet?”   The subject of her column is named “Mood, Food and move — Three Secrets of Health”.

Helen H. Hu, OMD, L.Ac Dr. Hu, originally from Beijing China, has studied Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) since the age of 12. A Cardiologist and Practitioner of integrated medicine for 9 years. She immigrated to the United States in 1991. In 1997 Dr. Hu passed the “United States Licensing Medical Exam” while simultaneously obtaining her Oriental Medical Degree (OMD). Dr. Hu is a specialist in Herbal medicine, nationally licensed in Acupuncture and has a Philosophy of life structured around Oriental traditions. She utilizes her expertise in these treatments along with a passion and wisdom for Longevity to treat a variety of health conditions.  You can find more information.  To find more information about her, go to  http://www.omdweb.net/

Nadia Linda Hole, M.D. — Dr Hole is a long time practitioner & teacher of QiGong, Integrative Energy Medicine physician, & ordained Sufi minister, with years of experience working with a number of  “Masters.”  Besides serving as a consulting editor to the official textbook Chinese Medical QiGong, she has also contributed chapters on QiGong, to the medical textbooks: Alternative & Complementary Treatment in Neurologic Illness, Edited by Michael Weintraub MD, Pain Management: A Practical Guide for Clinicians 6^th Edition, Edited by  Richard Wiener PhD, 2002; Cardiac Ilness – Integrative Treatment & Prevention, Edited by Frishman MD, Weintraub MD, & Micozzi MD. In QiGong, DR Hole’s passion is Qi as the breath of God, & the power of unconditional Love.

Jing Jin, MBA — is the founder of CycleHarmony.com, a website that provides tools/programs, content, and community support to empower women to heal their menstrual disharmonies, naturally.  Jing has a BS degree in economics and a MBA degree in finance/marketing, but she did not go to business world after school, instead, her personal suffering and spiritual exploration lead her to a different life path — to help as many people as she can to activate and live out their life purposes so that we can create more meaningful and fulfilling lives, families, and communities.  Jing is currently pursuing her Master Degree in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine at Yo San University in Los Angeles.

Dan Kleiman — the Program Director at Brookline Tai Chi in Brookline, MA, near Boston.  Brookline Tai Chi is one of the largest health-oriented Tai Chi schools in the country and has been a center for teaching the Chinese movement arts of Wu Style Tai Chi, Qigong, Ba Gua and Taoist Breathing since 1992. http://www.brooklinetaichi.org. Dan teaches weekly classes and workshops on Tai Chi and Qigong for adults seeking a calmer mind and more vibrant health. For more advice on developing a movement practice focused on relaxation and pain relief, visit www.DanKleiman.com/get-moving

Ellasara Kling – Following the threads of her personal tapestry, Ms. Kling, a long-time student of Master Nan Lu, weaves her life around the exploration and sharing of self-healing though a variety of modalities, primarily focusing on nutrition, common herbal plants, Qigong Meridian Therapy, and Qigong for Women’s Health.  Ms. Kling has written the column “Food as Medicine” in our Qi Dao journal for the past 4 years.

Dr. Aihan Kuhn — was a practicing physician in China before coming to America. A 1982 graduate of Hunan Medical University, she has now been practicing Chinese Medicine in the US.   Dr. Kuhn is the founder of Chinese Medicine for Health in Holliston, Massachusetts, a Master of Tai Chi and Qi Gong, an author of many books;  three of which have been published, “Simple Chinese Medicine”, “True Brain Fitness,” and “Natural Healing with Qi Gong”.   With previous experience as an OB/GYN, Dr. Kuhn is able to combine her western medical knowledge with eastern medical methods, making her healing techniques remarkably effective, while remaining all-natural.   With a lifetime of experience, she has developed special ways to examine energy pathways; to identify the root cause of problems, which is the key to a successful treatment.  She has extensive knowledge and experience in natural healing with: women’s health, cancer prevention and healing, children’s health, anti-aging education, and more.  For more information about Dr. Kuhn, go to  http://www.draihankuhn.com

Linda Lazarus, L.D. – an attorney for more that 30 years, has served as an adjudicator at the U.S. Department of Energy and as a litigator for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, as well as the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia. She was the Lead Mediator for the U.S. Department of Energy Mediation Service and the Professional Ethics Advisor to the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia. Ms. Lazarus has also served as Special Assistant to the Director of the Office for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Ms. Lazarus serves as a Mediator for the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia and theU.S. Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Listed in “Who’s Who in American Law” and “Who’s Who in American Women”, she is married to Andrew Jay Schwartzman, Senior Vice President and Policy Director of Media Access Project.

Lilly Lei, M.D. –  Used to practice Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine at the University Hospital in Caracas, Venezuela. Feeling the need to specialize in an area that would address the “whole” individual, Ms. Lei studied Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Hospital Vargas in Caracas, Venezuela. She pursued her training at the Rusk Institute of New York University and later, through a Fellowship in Restorative Neurology at Baylor College, gained insight into the potential for regeneration of the human body. However, it was not until Dr. Lei decided to go into private practice that she found “her way”. In a search to improve the outcome of certain treatments, she discovered acupuncture. Her practice evolved from mainstream physical therapy and rehabilitation medicine into a practice of Energy Medicine. After the intense professional training and searching, and leading the conventional modern life of stress and hurry, Dr. Lei developed chronic fatigue. It turned out to be a valuable experience, wherein she could test the efficacy of the ancient healing techniques on her own condition, including master He’s Taiji Five-Element Qigong. This personal research resulted in a radical shift in life perception, coupled with a desire to share these discoveries with the world. Because of her knowledge of both ancient and modern medicines, Dr. Lei has a deep understanding of when and how to use them appropriately, in each individual situation.

Violet Li – an award winning journalist, certified Tai Chi instructor, and certified Heart Zone Trainer, has studied Tai Chi, Qigong, and heart fitness with many grandmasters and experts, and has taught Tai Chi, Qigong, and other fitness programs to various groups. Her passion for Tai Chi, Qigong, and fitness motivates her to write articles on the related events, people, theories, techniques, practices, and health benefits for individuals. NBC of St. Louis featured one of her classes in “100 Year Old Tai Chi Artist”. Ms. Li writes regularly for the St. Louis Tai Chi Examiner and the National Tai Chi Examiner, and has readership from over 18 different countries. Do you have a story or comment to share? Please contact her at violet.li@tadi.com.

Phoenix Liu, Ph.D., is the Director of the Language House Immersion Program at the University of Maryland, College Park.  She received her bachelor’s degree in Animal Science (Taiwan), her master’s degree in Music Education (German), and her doctorate degree in German Philology from the University of Maryland. Dr. Liu holds a black belt in Cuong Nhu karate, a blending type of hard and soft martial arts, and has been a Tai-Chi practitioner for over 15 years. She demonstrates her dedication to Tai-Chi and Qigong by her efforts of combining these two ancient healing arts with music. She has arranged several Tai-Chi forms to music, which have been performed around the metropolitan D.C. area.

George Xavier Love, DOM, L.Ac.— George Love Jr. is a primary care physician licensed in Florida since 1986. As a Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM) and licensed Acupuncture Physician, he is qualified to prescribe herbs (herbalist) and therapeutic diets (food therapist).  He is the former Dean of Acupuncture Studies at Barna College of Health Science in Ft. Lauderdale, and the author of six health books including S.H.I.E.L.D. Your Immune System in Just 12 Weeks, Meridian Chi Gong, You Won’t find Love in the Refrigerator and Ear Reflexology Massage Your Ears to Health.  He has been involved in the Alternative Health industry for 30 years both as an educator and health care provider.  He teaches Self Healing workshops across the country on Ear Reflexology, Meridian Chi Gong, 4 Doors to Healthy Happiness and 21 Days to Wellness. You can find more information about him at  www.4DoorstoHealth.com

Li-Jun Ma, M.D. — was a nephrologist in China before coming to America in 1995. Dr. Ma is a Research Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Ma’s researches are focused on studying the profibrotic and proinflammatory mechanisms of renal fibrosis and kidney complications caused by diabetes and obesity. In 1971, Li-Jun Ma started studying Tai Chi Chuan at the age of seven with Master XiFang Chen (who was from Chen village) in Luohe, Henan province of China. In 1999, Dr. Ma won one gold medal and one silver medal for his competition performance of 24-form Tai Chi Chuan and 32-form Tai Chi Sword in Chicago Wushu Tournament. Since 1999, Dr. Ma has been actively teaching and promoting Tai Chi in the Nashville area (including The Nashville Chinese School, YMCA, MTSU, and at Fannie Mae Dees Park). From 2009 to present, due to his medical background and extensive Tai Chi experience, he is selected as an instructor for teaching “Therapeutic Tai Chi” classes at Vanderbilt Center for Integrative Health (VCIH). The overall goals of the Tai Chi classes Dr. Ma is teaching at VCIH are these: (1) Teach people to learn this ancient Chinese approach to achieve mind and body relaxation and to reduce stress. (2) Instruct patients who have chronic medical conditions how to use Tai Chi and Qigong, mind-body exercise tools of complementary and alternative medicine, to facilitate the healing process of their chronic illnesses and diseases. The class schedule can be found in the website of VCIH at Vanderbilt (http://www.vanderbilthealth.com/integrativehealth/)

Elizabeth Mackenzie, PhD – a lecturer in the Health and Societies Program at the University of Pennsylvania, Associate Fellow of the Center for Public Health Initiatives, and an Associate Fellow of the Institute on Aging. Currently teaching humanistic and holistic medicine and a consultant for eMindful, Inc., www.eMindful.com, an on-line wellness resource, she is the author of “Healing the Social Body: a Holistic Approach to Public Health Policy”, numerous journal articles, and several book chapters. She is also co-editor of “Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Older Adults”, a collection of articles on holistic approaches to healthy aging. Her most recent article, “The Role of Mindfulness in Health Care Reform” was published in Explore: the Journal of Science and Healing. In addition, Dr. Mackenzie is a Reiki practitioner, a long-time student of yoga, and Qigong, and section editor for All Things Healing, www.AllThingsHealing.com.

Mark Melchiorre, L.Ac. — is a practitioner of Oriental Medicine Energetics with over 20 years of experience. Mark uses acupuncture, herbs, cupping, tuina massage, Reiki, and qigong to benefit mind, body and spirit. Mark trained in the USA and in China. He has taught graduate level classes in Oriental Medicine. He is a professional member and certified teacher of the National Qigong Association. Mark maintains a private practice in South Pasadena, CA, USA and provides services as part of the Integrative Medical team at the Roy and Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center in Burbank, CA, USA. He is available for private and group lessons in Qigong and Tai Chi. Mark teaches methods that are adaptable to an individual’s personal health and fitness requirements.  Mark Melchiorre designs and maintains web sites relating to Oriental Medicine, Qigong and Tai Chi including the National Qigong Association web site, nqa.org, and the news and research aggregator, mindbodyspirit4health.com.

Sharon Montes, M.D. – practiced and taught family medicine in medical schools for 17 years. She is committed to integrating science and world wisdom in her professional and personal life. Dr. Montes served for 5 years as the Medical Director for the University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine and has practiced meditation for 34 years. She is an active and enthusiastic member of the tribe committed to integrating ancient wisdom and modern technology with the goal of creating health care and educational systems that serve with greater joy and efficiency. You may contact The Dancing Doctor at drsharonmontes@gmail.com.

Steffay Moonaz PhD – received her PhD in public health from Johns Hopkins University with a focus on health behavior and complementary and alternative medicine research. She is a Certified Movement Analyst and Registered Yoga Therapist with advanced training in the relationship between physical movement and psycho-emotional wellbeing. Dr. Moonaz earned a master’s degree of Fine Arts from the University of Maryland in 2003, and founded a local dance company, with an emphasis on the role of embodiment in everyday life. She has worked with people from all backgrounds to foster greater wellness and has received numerous awards for her work as a researcher and writer on the benefits of lifestyle change to promote a better quality of life.

Niraj Naik — a pharmacist, and a health/wellness consultant to several businesses based in the UK.  Having a musical background he has focused his attention on using sound and music as a “side effect” free tool for relieving stress, depression and tension,that he believes are the main culprits for chronic disease.    Niraj Naik also runs two successful websites and produces music and sounds with consultant psychiatrist Dr Mrigank Mishra, under the alias amAya, some of which is infused with their novel Trypnaural Brainwave Entrainment Technology designed to increase the natural production of tryptamines, DMT, serotonin and melatonin that can lead to deeper sleep, relaxation and better health. To find out more about his work and to download a free sample please visit http://www.TrypnauralMeditation.com

Jacob Newell (Daoshi Gu Shen Yu) – teaches Ruyu-style Taijiquan in Sonoma County, California through Old Oak Taiji School.  His instruction emphasizes Laozi’s approach to meditation and qi-cultivation: wuwei-ziran (non-action and natural). Jacob has been practicing Taijiquan and related arts since the early 1990’s and is an ordained Daoist priest. His book of poetry, These Daoist Bones, is available from his website, www.oldoakdao.org.

Mika Ono, is a writer and editor who is fascinated by issues in health, science, and society. Mika, a graduate of Reed College and The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, is an author of the book, Ancient Wisdom, Modern Kitchen: Recipes from the East for Health Healing and Long Life (Da Capo Lifelong Books, 2010). Currently director of communications for The Scripps Research Institute, her work has won awards from organizations including the International Book Awards, International Association of Business Communicators, the Communicator Awards, the Mercury Awards, and HOW Design. For more information, see www.mikaono.com.

Rodney Owen — has had a life-long interest in the relationship between meditation and martial arts.  Over the years he has followed and studied systems that emphasize that relationship: Aikido, Qigong, Taijiquan, I Liq Chuan, and Buddhism.  He practices and teaches Taiji, Qigong, Kung Fu, and Meditation in High Point, NC.  His primary interest is in the practical and functional aspects of these arts and in the concept that Kung Fu is a way of life, a methodology for improving and enjoying the content of life, of discovering and manifesting our higher selves.  He maintains a blog on martial arts and mindfulness at http://nagualtime.blogspot.com/ Samples of his writing and other interests can be found at http://rodneyjowen.com

Rebekah F. Owens LMT, NCTMB – has been a massage therapist since 2004. In her practice, she integrates traditional massage healing techniques with a relaxing atmosphere to create a holistic and effective style sure to help almost any client. She works with all age groups and is a Certified Infant Massage Instructor. Ms. Owens works full-time as a coordinator for the University of Maryland School of Medicine’s Center for Integrative Medicine, and is a part-time massage therapist in Severna Park, MD. Ms. Owens has a Bachelor’s degree in Allied Health from Towson University, and is pursuing a master’s degree in Applied Sociology at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.

Rena Reese, M.S. – the founder of Soul Salon International, an inspirational multi-media company which offers coaching and consulting, web-design, publishing support, and fund-raising opportunities for individuals and groups. She is an instructor at The Mindfulness Center in Bethesda, Maryland, radio host, and the author of many inspirational books that support the spiritual and physical revivals of her readers. She is a contributing writer to Affluent Magazine and a featured expert with Success Television. Her company is firmly rooted in public service and sponsors http://HeadedForHeliang.com and  http://WhatsRightWithKidsToday.com.

Michael Rinaldini (Li Chang Dao)– is a Qigong teacher, and a 22^nd generation Longmen (Dragon Gate) Daoist priest.  Shifu Michael founded the American Dragon Gate Lineage with the support of Master Wan Su Jian from Beijing, China.  The Lineage is a non-monastic community of members devoted to the spreading of Daoism and the cultivation of the Dao. Shifu Michael is also a practitioner and teacher of medical qigong, certified at the highest level (Level IV) Certified Qigong Teacher by the National Qigong Association, and a certified Bagua Xundao Gong Qigong Teacher by Master Wan Su Jian (Beijing, China).  He offers Qigong Certification Program for Advanced Trainings. See more information at www.dragongateqigong.com

Andy Rosenfarb, ND, L.Ac.– has been working in the field of Oriental Medicine over 17 years. He earned his Master of Traditional Oriental Medicine at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, and continued his post-graduate studies at Zhejiang College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China.  He earned his Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine from Canyon College in Carmichael, California. He integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine and cutting edge approaches of Naturopathic Medicine to maximize results for his patients. Dr. Andy Rosenfarb is the Clinical Director and Founder of Acupuncture Health Associates with specialty in generative eye conditions.  He is among the world’s leading experts in the field of holistic eye health. He also works with patients dealing with severe chronic illness and systemic degenerative diseases, using Chinese Medicine, Medical Qigong and Naturopathic Medicine in order to help promote long-term health and wellness.  He is the published author of “Healing Your Eyes with Chinese Medicine.”  Dr. Rosenfarb has practiced various styles martial arts and energy exercises over 20 years.  He was trained in the teaching and clinical applications of Taiji Five-Element Qigong, and is a certified “World Institute for Self-Healing” (WISH) instructor.

Bonnitta Roy – lives on a horse-farm in Northwest Connecticut where she and her horses teach people about energy awareness, body language, and the deep sources of joy. She served as the president of the National Qigong Association, where she spearheaded the The Journal of Qigong in America. Her process-based philosophy has appeared in numerous academic publications and she is responsible for several blogs including alderlore.org ; wabisabizen.com and integralreviewofbooks.com. She is an associate editor of Integra-Review, an online peer-review publication.

Chun Man Sit – born in 1950s in southern China, his family moved to Hong Kong when he was six years old. He lived in Hong Kong for twenty years and in 1976, he moved to the United States. Master Sit began his martial arts training in 1969 and has studied and practiced continually for forty years; learning many styles such as Karate, Tai Chi, Qigong and Kungfu. He is the expert on Wu style Taiji, Tai Hui Six Elbows Kungfu, and many Qigong methods, including 6 Healing Sounds, Drifting Cloud Moving Qigong, Nei Gong, Silk-reeling Gong, etc. Master Sit has been a chief judge in many national Tai Chi and Kungfu tournaments in the United States of America for the last 18 years and has taught Tai Chi, Qigong, and Kungfu workshops. His articles appear regularly in Tai Chi and Kungfu magazines and he is currently writing a book on Tai Chi. Master Sit and his wife Mary Ann, live in Overland Park, Kansas.

Jessica Sommar, M.Sc. — is an author/instructor in Classical Yang Family Style Taijiquan and Daoyin at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in the Berkshires. She has trained in Daoist alchemy, Taijiquan fist and weapons forms and daoyin and apprenticed in TCM — acupuncture and eastern herbs for six years, including living two years in Hangzhou, PRC. In the past two decades her training includes western herbs, western astrology, various energy healing modalities and she is a clinically trained and CPE-certified Interfaith Chaplain. She is currently undertaking the 200-hour certified Yoga Teacher Training at Kripalu and is marketing and administrative coordinator for the Schools of Yoga and Ayurveda there as well.   She is currently writing a manuscript on Daoyin.  Learn more about Jessica from her blog at  http://jessinamerica222.wordpress.com

Dr.Yuan Wang, OMD – grew up in Sichuan Province, China, where she learned to cook by helping her mother and grandmother prepare meals for the extended family. Following her interest in traditional Chinese medicine and nutrition, Dr. Wang pursued a rigorous course of study and eventually became a lecturer, researcher, and physician-in-charge of several departments at the Chengdu Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital. Now a member of the faculty at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego and practitioner at The Source Chinese Medical Clinic in Poway, California, Dr. Wang finds that food tends to be a neglected area in Western medicine. Both in the clinic and in the classroom, Dr. Wang hopes to raise awareness about the importance of food for health and healing.

Yang Yang, Ph.D.- is one of the few individuals who are recognized within the traditional Taiji and Qigong community as a master practitioner and instructor, as well as an academic researcher who’s using western science to explore evidence-based Eastern philosophy and healing arts. He is author of the highly acclaimed book “Taijiquan: The Art of Nurturing, The Science of Power”, and in 2006 was honored as the “Qigong Master of the Year” at the 9th World Congress on Qigong and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Yang trained in China under several of the 18th generation grandmasters of the Chen style – Chen Zhaokui, Gu Liuxin, and Feng Zhiqiang. He was a three-time Taiji champion at the Shanghai collegiate tournament and former instructor at the Shanghai Chen Style Taiji research association. To understand the power and mechanics of Taiji and Qigong beyond traditional explanatory frameworks, Master Yang completed a doctorate degree in kinesiology at the University of Illinois, where he remains as an adjunct faculty.  Dr. Yang is currently the Director of the Center for Taiji and Qigong Studies (www.centerfortaiji.com) in New York City.

Doe Zantamata — an inspirational author, photographer, and graphic designer.  He has written several books, and is also working on a book series entitled “Happiness in Your Life.”   Doe would rather not have a detailed description about himself here since he thinks the most important information about him is that everyone should recognize his/her own inner teacher. There are a lot of recognizable names in self help and spirituality; unfortunately people lose sight of themselves as wise people, and instead turn to teachers outside.  “Happiness in Your Life” is made up of a book series, daily motivational blog, animated short movies, and inspirational posters. There is a little something for everyone. Whether a person is enduring trying times, or has decided to fully live their dreams, thehiyL seeks to fan that inner spark within all of us, and help us to realize our full life potential. Happiness in Your Life is written by Doe Zantamata. Please visit the daily blog for articles and web posters at www.thehiyL.com or please visit www.happinessinyourlife.com to learn more about the books and printed posters.

Tina Chunna Zhang – studied with the most respected Martial Artists in China – Grandmaster Li Bing Ci and Grandmaster Liu Jing Ru – and currently practices as well as teaches traditional Northern Wu Style Taijiquan and Cheng Style Baguazhang. Ms. Zhang studied at Beijing University and was mentored by Dr. Kong Si, one of the most famous Traditional Chinese medical doctors in Beijing. Ms.Zhang is the author of “Earth Qi Gong for Women” and founded a program by the same name. A co-author of two books, “Classical Northern Wu Style Taijiquan”, and”The Whirling Circles of Gaguazhang”, she runs a successful clinic in New York City. She offers workshops and retreats throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe, and her unique teaching style greatly benefits practitioners of all levels. After many years of research, study, and practice, Ms. Zhang recently introduced the world to “The Three Treasures”, a practical medical Qigong set, and her book “Earth Qigong for Women”, is now available in Spanish.

Sam Zhao — has practiced Qigong (Chi Kung) over 30 years,  mostly with YanXin Qigong.  He has been a specialist of energy healing for about 20 years and has a profound knowledge of the Chinese medicine, especially the energy balancing. Since 2005, he is a certified massage therapist in Virginia. His massage, integrating the Chinese Qigong, Chinese meridian massage and Western medical massage, becomes a solution to many health problems.  He was a member of the Tumor Healing Branch of the China Medical Society and a member of the China Bio-Medical Engineering Society.  He, as a Senior Bio-thermal Engineer, was also a Senior Consultant of Energetic Test Center of the China Qigong Association.  With a B.S. in Electronics and Electric Engineering Sam has developed a method to measure the infrared radiation of the human-body which is patented in China and USA.  He received the national Invention award in 1980s.   He has been studying Da Vinci since 2004 when he saw the picture “Vitruvian Man” in the massage school. Since then, he has published more than 30 related articles.

 

We are openly welcoming new columnists or contributors to write for us in the existing columns or start a new column as long as we work toward the same goals!  (see “about us” for our mission statement)