Wow, it’s amazing to be celebrating my 25th year of teaching Tai Chi! It is an honor and so humbling to teach a centuries-old practice that has transformed my life, helped me re-learn to walk, feel balance and stability and has been the main influence for getting off medications I took regularly in my 30’s and 40’s.

I’ve been so inspired by stories of many students, who, with courage and determination have managed pain, arthritis, stroke recovery, anxiety and stress, etc. through Tai Chi practice, coming to class when it wasn’t easy.

Here’s a class in 2003 where the quiet energy and being in the moment come right through the stillness of the photo.

This photo is in the first Heartwood location on Maple and Davis, across from Bennison’s Bakery, (2004, I think)

Tai Chi class at Heartwood on Dempster, around 2012, upstairs in what is now the Shrine Room. Our regular classes were in that room before we moved to the Skylight Room.

Chicago class in 2015 or 2016, dedicated students who shared great Tai Chi energy together at our class in the Fourth Presbyterian Church.

August, 25, 2024 — Celebrating 25 years in Evanston park at Lake and Chicago

After Tai Chi, a wonderful lunch at Chinese restaurant, Peppercorns, in downtown Evanston

At Peppercorns with Nancy Floy, Founder and Co-Director of Heartwood and Larry Akey, Director of Meditation Programs.

Thanks to Nancy for her vision, for bringing Heartwood to life and for leading me to Tai Chi. For all the individuals in these photos and for all others whose lives have crossed with mine through Tai Chi, our energy continues to connect across the miles. It’s a privilege to teach and share Tai Chi with you.

I’d love to hear your comments and memories of Tai Chi and how it’s positively impacted your life.