Great Benefits To Teachers & Students

Intensive with Pam (& Antonia) in Ringwood, NJ, Oct. 5-8, 2007. Daniel Pienciak was the host.

This course was very effective for anyone who practices T’ai Chi Chih to deepen their understanding of the movements, and to realize the refinements needed to better embody the principles of how to move and thereby increase the benefits received. Everyone departed with a sense of incredible bonding and a feeling of satisfaction that we had done something good for ourselves and each other – something that will make a lasting difference in our lives. Comments from participants include:

“Though softness, continuity, and openness, we channel fulfillment in our practice and in our lives.” … “I recommend teachers go to intensives whenever possible and encourage their serious students to take advantage of the wonderful opportunity.” … “I found myself surrounded by a community of Chi. It inspires me to continue my exploration of TCC and fills me with gratitude.” … “I am newly devoted to continuing my daily practice. Its benefits now feel limitless.” … “As I try to integrate the smaller details discussed, it has become so very clear that how you move (from the T’an T’ien) is the basis for all the movements.” … “Work hard. Play hard. What a wonderful way to sharpen your TCC skills. The intensive is the way.” … “The instruction keeps me focused in the soles of my feet and brings a new awareness to my own practice and the basic principles. Without a doubt it helps me be a better TCC teacher.” … “This weekend has increased insights into my goal of becoming a TCC instructor.” … “Softening my movements made a difference in feeling the Chi in a way I had not yet experienced. The visuals and tips shared tremendously helped make the movements easier. As a result they were more enjoyable and joyful.”

In Their Words

Teacher Renewal & Training with Sandy (& Antonia) in Ringwood, NJ;

Mar. 1-7, 2008 By Dan Pienciak, Host

Several candidates from the October intensive experienced life challenges that prevented them from attending this training, but we were grateful that Sandy committed to a six-person training. We were also blessed with over a dozen auditing teachers; Thomas Davidson even drove all the way from Michigan for the week. As always, witnessing the transformation of the six new teachers was an inspiration and privilege to all. Now for their words:

Any intrepidation that tried to hitch a free ride to the accreditation in my baggage found no comfortable accommodations. The feelings of nurturing, support, encouragement, and love pervaded any empty spaces. The opportunities to deepen my exploration of T’ai Chi Chih were filled with the excitement of new discoveries, enriching an already meaningful practice. Holding no expectation of outcomes, I left feeling more blessed than one can imagine – all because of one person, Justin Stone. – Judy Chancey, Atlanta, Georgia

The accreditation process was an amazing one of becoming. Like a spring flower, we felt ourselves gradually open during the week – gently, softly, each in our own time with the gentle support of our teachers.” – Jim Kaib, Philadelphia, PA

The vast knowledge of teachers who were ready, willing, and able to share with us was amazing. The teh between students and teachers was readily apparent, sending out love to one another and into the cosmos.– Tony Risos, Toms, River, NJ

A new journey started at the Franciscan Center. There I met other practitioners and learned from their experiences (and my own) of being corrected. As a result I became more relaxed during my stay. We were not there as perfect persons, and we were still learning even though we were accredited as teachers. I am now ready to share TCC with others. – Agus Wong, Bethesda, MD

This week was enveloped in softness. Despite the loss of my uncle during the first session, everyone’s support was a soft place to rest. My favorite kind of environment is one that promotes growth. – Kate Van Frank, Montclair, NJ

I feel transformed. My understanding of yinning and yanning emerged one morning during the practice before breakfast. My right hip, which was holding tension for years, let go and started moving normally. I could not have gone through this training without participating in an intensive prior to that and working on my practice since then. Thank you for all the teaching. – Eve Delachartre, Brooklyn, NYC