I began my "movement life" in dance (modern and ballet) but after developing osteoarthritic knees, I realized I couldn't continue to leap high in the air and land on out-turned feet without doing further damage. I sought an alternative, and fell in love with Tai Chi to a degree I had not expected. I am certified to teach several Tai Chi for Health combinations including Tai Chi for Arthritis and Tai Chi for Energy. I also know and teach Yang style Tai Chi (24 Yang and two shorter combinations), and several Qigong forms (including 8 Brocades and 5 Animals). I have been teaching regularly for just three years so consider myself a "junior" teacher, and I continue to learn from wonderful teachers who know much more than I do. I currently teach two weekly classes at Willamette View (a continuing care center in the Greater Portland area) and offer one-on-one instruction. As a psychologist (my "day job") I'm particularly interested in how the movement, philosophy, and energy flow of Tai Chi and Qigong can lead to a greater sense of flow, equanimity, compassion, and wisdom in day-to-day life. I am delighted to be a member of NQA and look forward to collaboration and learning opportunities with colleagues across the country.
Practitioner