Gu Feng Tai Chi Club Assistant Instructors (2007)

Roger Stevens

"I am a 77 years old lawyer and practice about half days, and I am probably the oldest member of the Tai Chi group. From teen age I studied judo and competed and taught it for many years and hold a 5th degree black belt. I play the piano and love to dance Argentine Tango. I find a high esthetic component inTai Chi, like Judo and dance. I am interested in oriental healing techniques, and the orient in general and have traveled in and lectured on the orient and taught introduction to Tai Chi on cruises. I commenced studying Tai Chi prior to finding Laura and have been with the club shortly after its beginning. I remain amazed at the high level of attainment of the the club members and how much continual challenge is offered. I help instruct because it gives me great joy to see how members progress, especially if I had any hand in their learning. I remain most grateful to Laura, especially, and other instructors for all the help I receive as a student, and am also glad that I have the opportunity to pass on what has been taught to me to others as an assistant instructor."

Miguel Villasenor

"I thank Laura Ting and all the instructors from the Gu Feng Tai Chi Club for the excellent and unconditional help that I received during these last years. In the same spirit, I want to give back what was handed to me in the form of training. Also, in the same way that I am benefiting from TaiChi, I would like others to have the opportunity to learn TaiChi and have similar benefits. Further more, being an instructor gives me the chance to refine further my TaiChi techniques."

Shing-Jiuan Liau

"Through Tai Chi practice, I am learning how to be mindful and centered in my actions. I'm also learning to be genuine while encountering all kinds of life situations,like how water flows through different environments. Tai Chi is a life-time practice for me."

Shing-Jiuan is a visiting researcher at Naropa University. She has a master’s degree in Somatic Psychology from Naropa University. Her thesis is “Connecting with the Tao: Tai Chi/Authentic Movement—a New Dance Movement Therapy Modality Bringing Hope to Stressed People,” which combines Tai Chi and Authentic Movement to help people find their core support.

Eladia Rivera

"When I am not practicing tai chi, I am a local public librarian.  I have practiced kung fu, tai chi and yoga off and on since I was 20 years old. Tai chi and qigong are tremendous practices to follow for a healthy mind and body. I feel lucky having found the Gu Feng Tai Club where I can practice with others who appreciate the benefits of tai chi, positive attitude and community."

Tony Distasi

"It's impossible for me to put into words just how much I have learned from Tai Chi.  The whole experience has been such a positive influence on my body, my health, and my whole life.  So it seems only natural for me to teach Tai Chi and pass on all the great things I have learned to help others as much as it has helped me.  I feel very lucky to learn from all the other instructors in the group, and teaching helps me to improve my Tai Chi as well.  In today's society, I believe Tai Chi has a lot to offer to help bring balance to a troubled world. I look forward to doing my best to bring Tai Chi to anyone who wants to learn."