by Kimberly Ivy | January 2014 | Program Host: Vicki Dello Joio
Qigong and Taijiquan are increasingly represented in the mainstream as simply gentle movements that are good for health. And whereas this is true, it is only small a part of what is available to us through training. Qigong and Taijiquan are powerful methods of developing strength: physically and mentally. Many of the greatest lasting spiritual and healing benefits are derived from training not just in a weekend but over many years and “eating bitter” as we go. However, in a time where we are too busy, living in a culture that values quick and easy is there really still a place for this type of Tradition? How can Traditional Training help us to regain our footing in a world that is becoming less stable and more disjointed? How can it help us to steady our hearts and our minds? How can it provide us with lasting fortitude to be fierce but compassionate agents of change in current social conditions?
Kimberly Ivy is theFounder and chief instructor of Embrace The Moon Taijiquan and Qigong in Seattle, WA, has been training in the martial and internal martial arts for 36 years. She holds several black belts rankings and multiple certifications, is a Hall of Fame recipient from the Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors and her school is one of the few sanctioned branch schools in the world of the original Taijiquan school, Chenjiagou Taijiquan school in Chenjiagou, China. Kimberly also has a thriving practice working with people who have special health needs to regain function, mobility and energy from injury, illness and chronic health conditions. Kimberly travels often to China for training as well as hosting teachers in her school and enjoys blogging about her travels along the Way.
