Don't Miss Out!

GREAT as a gift to yourself or for someone you know

This year's shirt was designed by NJ art Student, Ty Burdon. For clarity, it's shown here in black and white. BUT the T-Shirt will be Metallic Gold on Royal Blue with Chinese and English writing.

2010 is the Chinese Year of the "Metal Tiger." With principles of feng shui and Chinese astrology, it's designed to bring power and good luck to the owner. We wish you all the best!

June 7-11: Dr. Painter's Gathering of the Baguazhang Circle
If you're going to do anything for a week, THIS is something you don't want to miss - no matter what your interest or level of experience. Check it out!

Visit Albany earlier and enjoy Pre-Gala Workshops at Master Jiang's local school!
Master Jianye Jiang, a featured presenter of the Tai Chi Gala, invites you to register for June 2-3 workshops at his Albany school! These include: Wudang Bagua, Wu Ji Special 8 Section Brocade Qigong and Chinese Yoga (Daoyin) w/ Rubber Resistance Bands. Very close to the Best Western Albany Airport Inn. Call: 518-459-6869 for workshop details!

2010 TAI CHI GALA WORKSHOPS!

Once registered, you can attend ANY and ALL the Tai Chi Gala workshops, listed below, that you want! When you arrive, you'll receive the final schedule & location of each workshop/seminar. Wear your registration badge to get into whatever workshops you desire. It's THAT simple! Click Here to Register Online Right Now!

	Fri. Jun 4	Sat. Jun 5	Sun. Jun 6
6:00-7:00 am		Morning Meditation Workshop	Morning Qigong Workshop
6:00-8:00 am		Breakfast Buffet	Breakfast Buffet
8:00-9:30 am		Workshops	Workshops
10:00-11:30 am		Workshops	Workshops
12:00-1:30 pm		Lunch Buffet	Lunch Buffet
1:30-3:00 pm	Pre Check-in Kungfu Movie	Workshops	Interactive Daoist Ceremony to Zhang San Feng
3:30-5:00 pm	Check-in, Movies & Pool Time	Workshops	Post-Gala Bagua Check-in
5:00-6:30 pm	Eastern Themed Dinner Buffet	Dinner Buffet	Post-Gala Bagua Check-in
7:00-10:30 pm	Evening Entertainment w/Special Guest Speaker Ellie Walsh presenting a talk on "The Law of Attraction."	Evening Entertainment w/ Traditional Chinese Lion Dance and Friendship Demos!

Workshop Descriptions:

FRIDAY JUNE 4:

Enjoy some kungfu movies on a big-screen TV in the lounge, while you wait to check in and enjoy dinner with the other attendees and presenters! You can also swim in the pool or sip a beverage in the convention center's elegant lounge.

THEN, join us in the evening for some classy Opening Ceremonies, Evening Entertainment, refreshments and camaraderie. Special Guest Speaker -Ellie Walsh- a certified "Law of Attraction" trainer and life coach will offer her wisdom on how we can manifest what we desire from the universe. A fun party to kick off the Tai Chi Gala!

Ellie Walsh is a Certified Law of Attraction Trainer, Speaker, Intuitive Life Guide, NLP Practitioner & is Certified in Hypnosis

Her mantra: "There are No Mistakes….. Only Discoveries!"™ Is the starting point that has helped hundreds to free themselves of past judgment and go on to create new stories in their lives.

Ellie says, “Sometimes we forget who we really are. We forget that the circumstances outside of us do not have to dictate how we live our lives. It’s time to step back into our power, reunite with our power-filled energy and create the life we desire!”

Web: http://LivingTheLawOfAttraction.com

Email: ellie@livingthelawofattraction.com

SATURDAY JUNE 5:

6:00 - 7:00 AM

Intro to Daoist Meditation (Seated) -- w/ Shifu Loretta Wollering

Daoist (Taoist) meditation is a sophisticated practice, which has similarities as well as stark differences with Zen Buddhist meditation. From her years of studying with Master Jou Tsung Hwa, Shifu Wollering will share some easy basics of seated meditation with you. You will also learn special postural and acupressure techniques to “store” qi and prevent/treat “qi deviation.” You will also have the opportunity to discuss an enlightening “Daoist Koan” that Master Jou enjoyed sharing with his students. This can be used to help open your mind. Special techniques to calm the mind will be shared with you, allowing anyone – even those who normally have trouble meditating – to relax into the meditation. Though this is based on Daoist philosophy, it is not religious and can be practiced in harmony with any belief system.

8:00 - 9:30 AM

A) Iron Palm Power Standing Power -- w/ Shifu Dale Dugas

Shifu Dugas is known for his iron palm & iron body skill, as well as for his potent “dit da jow” iron palm liniment. But many people don’t know the right ways to go about training for iron palm/iron body power or how to use the special herbal medicines and qigong that go along with the practice. Other people are mistaken that this is a practice only reserved for martial arts combat practitioners. Truth is, that iron palm/iron body methods are also phenomenal for bringing endurance and vigor to one’s health, and that massage therapists or other body workers can make their hands, body and energy much stronger, thus greatly improving their healing practice. Come see how the rarely seen qigong methods of iron palm can be added to anything you practice. Learn how this can develop your internal connection, strength, speed and endurance.

B) 12 Steps to Incredible Longevity: Wuji Qigong -- w/ Shifu John Green

In previous workshops Shifu Green has introduced the Taiji Qigong component of the “12 Steps to Incredible Longevity” series. Now he teaches the meditation companion, or “Wuji Qigong.” The form is also called Jian Shen Fa or “Beautiful Body Method.” The form is a simple 12-step Daoist-based meditation that gently aligns the posture, opens the qi channels, and stretches the body meridians to remove blockages. This gives you much of the same benefits of acupuncture. It is an excellent start for those seeking to investigate the inner landscape of their body through easy standing meditation techniques. Beginners and experienced practitioners alike will benefit from the deep breathing and coordinated body movement. All levels and all styles are welcome.

C) Chinese Self-Massage Therapy -- w/ Master YuZhi Lu

For the first time in the history of this event, Shifu Lu has agreed to do a workshop on these techniques that she once only shared with few. Now you have the opportunity to learn techniques from Traditional Chinese Medicine that are very easy to learn and do for yourself or share with others. Learn how to make yourself feel great naturally while relieving stress, releasing pain and strengthening your longevity. Without any knowledge of Chinese medicine or acupuncture, you can clear your acupoint meridians, help normalize your blood circulation, and bring healing energy to the organs of your body. It is also great for normalizing emotions and improving psychological health. Get the effects of Chinese medicine and acupuncture by learning extra-simple techniques you can do anywhere, anytime.

D) Da Cheng Quan (Part I – Gathering the Fuel) -- w/ Master Wang, Ren-Gang

This introduction to dachengquan, also known as “yiquan,” is an in-depth look at mastering the fundamentals. Unlike most martial arts, the powerful foundation of dachengquan is mined from the depths of stillness. Very special standing meditation postures and mind techniques allow this energy to be found from deep within. After this, the practitioner uses special combative movements called “trial energy.” Master Wang will enlighten you about this highly mysterious martial art. You will learn about the practice of “zhan zhuang” power standing, special postures to use your energy properly, meditative movement, footwork, visualizations and fundamental theory. Not only is it amazing for heightening your martial ability, but the practice can also help you achieve homeostasis (balance) with your health.

10:00 - 11:30 AM

A) Tibetan Blue Heron Boxing -- w/ Shifu Robert Castaldo

This is one of the oldest “Daoqiquan” martial arts brought over from Tibet by Lama Zurdwang Rinpoche to the Li Family of Emei Mountain. Unlike Chinese Crane Kung Fu systems, which embody Shaolin concepts and techniques, the Tibetan Blue Heron style is based on the effective internal arts concepts of Daoqiquan. The martial techniques of this style appear soft and gently but are actually surgically precise and devastating. You’ll sample a variety of techniques, including wing blocks, absorptions, lightning hand skills, strikes, kicks and stepping patterns. No previous experience is necessary to enjoy training with Shifu Robert Castaldo – one of the few instructors in the world qualified to teach this rare Daoqiquan art of Li Family lineage.

B) How to Make and Use Your Own Dit Da Jow Liniment -- w/ Shifu Dale Dugas

Many Chinese herbalists, bodywork healers and iron palm practitioners recognize Shifu Dugas’ dit da jow products as being the best and most potent available, both in the US as well as across the globe! This is because Dugas hand-selects all the herbal ingredients and bases his recipes on years of study and secret formulas from this branch of Chinese medicine. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to make one of the secrets of Chinese medicine that helps heal injuries and condition the body. Shifu Dugas will share one such highly guarded formula. He’ll dissect it and explain how you can make it even stronger. If you wish, he will have these rare supplies available for your purchase so that you too, can make your own potent bottle of dit da jow for martial or healing use.

C) Longevity Qigong Secrets of the Tortoise and Snake -- w/ Master Jianye Jiang

Why do some people live a long life and others only a short one? What lets some people live over 100 years and others only 35? For millennia, Daoists have looked to nature for these answers. Both the ancients as well as modern Chinese researchers have found that certain turtles and snakes have the ability to live a longer life than other similar species – in fact, some live over 100 years! Join Master Jiang to learn 3 special longevity secrets discovered from observation of certain turtles and snakes. You will deeply experience effective qigong techniques that will leave you feeling so renewed, refreshed, flexible and invigorated.

D) Qi Sensitivity for Push Hands -- w/ Shifu David Ritchie

Being able to sense the qi energy in yourself and others is an important goal towards advancing your taijiquan practice. In this workshop you’ll learn how to apply your qi sensitivity to push hands. You’ll also learn how to utilize qi for rooting, “sending” and “sensing.” Working with a partner, you’ll learn development routines for pushing hands practice. Even if you do not practice push hands, you will still enjoy this workshop, as these activities can also help you improve and get the most out of your taijiquan (tai chi chuan) form. Attendees of all levels can participate and enjoy the balancing energy of this workshop.

1:30 - 3:00 PM

A) Tuina Massage/Acupressure for Thoracic Pain -- w/ Shifu Pedro Cepero-Yee

Tui na is the famous therapeutic massage method of Chinese medicine. Thoracic pain is a common stress disorder that is felt as tension between the shoulder blades. In our society, so much emphasis on driving, computers, video gaming and other activities leads to the constant hunched-over position that causes this common back disorder. This workshop poses an effective and natural solution that will relax you and make you feel great. You’ll learn tui na hand techniques used to treat the discomfort, along with simple movements that help to open up and release those areas.

B) Magnetic Touch Skill – Mind Over Matter & Controlling the Opponent’s Body with Your Mind -- w/ Dr. John Painter

Can you touch someone and cause him to be drawn forward, backwards or tip off balance? There’s a long forgotten skill called cili quti, or “human body magnetic force.” From the Li family internal arts lineage, it’s a practical skill that is part of the ability to control an opponent with your mind through very light touch. With “Magnetic Touch Skill” you’ll learn how to control the core of your opponent by simple touch. This allows you to lead a strike, push, or other attack - gently and almost effortlessly - into a harmless direction. You’ll learn how to use the mind intent (yi) to secretly enter the opponent’s nervous system to control his balance through touching with almost any part of the body. This is not “qi” or magic – it is real kinetic skill for controlling human physiological reactions with the mind. No previous experience is necessary for you to explore this fascinating method.

C) Xing Yi Wu Xing Quan – The Fighting Power of the 5 Elements -- w/ Shifu Sean Wang

Like taijiquan (tai chi) and baguazhang, xingyiquan is one of China’s three “internal arts.” Xinqyi is especially known for its simple, but highly effective combat techniques that emphasize straight attack and parrying. It is a martial art based on the “5 Elements” of Daoist (Taoist) philosophy: metal, water, wood, fire and earth. You will learn how you can harness the power of each of these “elemental” techniques of hacking, drilling, penetrating, exploding and swiping. Shifu Sean Wang will introduce you to fascinating, ancient concepts and martial combinations to add to your practice. No matter what style of martial arts you are interested in, the knowledge of xingyiquan from this workshop can open your mind and take your progress very far.

D) Open Room for Push Hands Practice -- Staff

Back by popular demand... You can practice some things that you learned together with other Tai Chi Gala attedees. Instructors and attendees are welcome to use the meeting room at this time to share with each other in a respectful and cooperative learning environment. This is a great opportunity to meet with and work with others.

3:30 - 5:00 PM

A) Reaching Your Qi Center in the Unconscious Mind -- w/ Shifu Robert Castaldo

Master Wei-Boyang, one of the founding fathers of qigong, wrote that all qigong begins within the inner recesses of the mind. Learn how to reach your own personal qi center in the unconscious, as professional internal martial arts instructor and hypnotherapist, Shifu Castaldo, guides you. You’ll learn the secrets of accessing the control centers of your unconscious mind through a process of guided imagery relaxation to achieve never-before realized states of relaxation and mental control over mind & body. Understanding how guided imagery functions and how you can employ it in your training can help you make serious breakthroughs in your training. Come and experience the master key to unlocking your hidden qi powers. All levels and styles are welcome.

B) Push Hands Clinic – Learn Some Neutralizations -- w/ Shifu William C. Phillips

Push Hands, or Pushing Hands (tui shou, in Chinese) is a basic 2-person exercise famous amongst tai chi practitioners. It helps you build a special skill called “ting jin,” or “listening energy,” among other internal arts skills. In its initial stages, as will be covered here, it is a respectful and cooperative exercise between 2 people. Later, it can be used competitively, and for preparation for combat. From his years of push hands study from Master Cheng Man-Ching, Master Zhang Lu Ping, and others, Shifu Phillips will introduce you to some very effective neutralizations of force coming at you from pushes or strikes. This clinic is a great opportunity for you to practice with a wide variety of people under guidance of a master push hands instructor. This will allow you to make rapid progress while having a lot of fun. Everyone is welcome.

C) Da Cheng Quan (Part II – Lighting the Fire) -- w/ Master Wang, Ren-Gang

Based on the structural and energetic foundation set in Part I (see above), Master Wang will continue on with helping you understand how the most powerful movement issues forth from the substrate of stillness. Dachengquan, also known as “yiquan,” is one of the most formless uses of martial arts. The practice can also make a person’s spirit very peaceful, yet extremely strong. This workshop will continue on with bringing forth movement from the stillness in the most efficient and effective way. Take the opportunity to explore this mysterious art under the guidance of one of the few dachengquan lineage masters of our generation.

D) Open Room for Push Hands Practice -- Staff

7:00 - 10:30 PM

Evening Entertainment, Sunday Previews, Friendship Demos and Traditional Chinese Lion Dance from Yee's Hung Ga Kung Fu -- Refreshments Included!

SUNDAY JUNE 6:

6:00 - 7:00 AM

Master Jou’s Special Eye Exercise Qigong -- w/ Shifu Loretta Wollering

Learn special visual exercises, acupressure and tuina massage techniques to help improve all vision problems and disorders of the eyes. Other side benefits: it helps reduce signs of aging around the eyes, and allows the sinuses to drain! Even at age 81, Master Jou never wore glasses and had good night vision and could read anything that people handed to him. People who have done this exercise consistently have reported switching to a lower-strength eyeglasses prescription. Not only will your eyes and head feel clearer, but this exercise also soothes your nervous system. Come and enjoy the techniques that Shifu Loretta Wollering passes down for you to use. A must for computer users, and people who do much reading, driving or TV watching.

8:00 - 9:30 AM

A) Gung Ji Fuk Fu Kuen (Subduing the Tiger “I” Pattern Form) Kung Fu Practice --w/ Pedro Cepero-Yee

Explore the first section of the oldest form in Chinese “Hung Ga” Kung Fu, made famous in movies such as “Once Upon a Time in China,” and “Iron Monkey.” This form is renown for developing a solid foundation in the five elements and “five animals.” It develops the “1,000 Pounds” horse stance, “Iron Bridges” of the forearms and proper breathing along with intensive coordination. You’ll also discover the internal principles of each movement as you learn to guide qi to the different areas of your body.

B) Yang 24 Short Form Taijiquan – Intro and Refinement -- w/ Shifu YuZhi Lu

This is a great workshop for people new to taijiquan (tai chi chuan) who want to get a feel of the world’s shortest and easiest, recognized taijiquan form. Based on the Traditional Yang Long Form, which is over 100 postures, this form is only 24 postures. People new to this form can “try it out,” while folks who already know this form will get refinement from Master Lu, who is credentialed from China to teach this taijiquan form for its standardization. Take the opportunity to enjoy some taiji practice with a taijiquan form that is becoming the most popular form of taijiquan (tai chi chuan) practiced today.

C) Lucky Number Energy Skill – Personal Feng Shui Meets Bagua -- w/ Dr. John Painter

Daoist (Taoist) masters of human feng shui “power directions” devised a method of calculating the most potent compass direction to face while you meditate, practice Daoist yoga, do standing practice, qigong or baguazhang circle walking. Dr. Painter will show you to to calculate YOUR human feng shui lucky number from which you can determine the most powerful directions to face during your training. Also included will be a specific bagua circle waling form based on a posture derived from the “Yijing” (I-Ching book) and your personal lucky number. This workshop is part of the Li Family Nine Dragon Qigong – a method of personal feng shui to orient the body and harmonize the mind with the cycles in nature for best absorption of qi energy. No experience is necessary to enjoy this calming and powerful experience. Illustrated manuals will also be available for purchase.

D) Open Room for Push Hands Practice -- Staff

A) XingYiQuan WuXing Pao - A Xingyi 2-Person Applications Set -- w/ Shifu John Green

Xingyiquan is known for its no-nonsense approach to training martial arts efficacy. This 2-person routine was designed to assist the xingyi enthusiast in understanding the practical usage of the 5 Element Fists. In this workshop, Shifu Green will teach the full routine, which closely follows the mutual construction/destruction sequence of the five elements, straight from Daoist philosophy. Attendees will work with a partner to heighten their awareness of attack and defense and to build nimble footwork with harmonious hands. This is an awesome, eye-opening opportunity for attendees to experience how the internal art of xingyiquan is used in combat.

B) Cheng Man-Ching Tai Chi Form – Guidance & Corrections -- w/ Shifu Wm. C. Phillips

Professor Cheng Man-Ching was the student of the famous Grandmaster Yang Cheng-Fu of Yang taijiquan lineage. From the traditional Yang Form, Prof. Cheng created his own signature set of form practice, which millions around the world still practice today. His style emphasizes extreme softness. Join Shifu Phillips are he gives guidance and correction while focusing on: weight distribution, hand & arm position, the spine, Prof. Cheng’s concept of “beautiful lady’s hand,” and much more. Everyone is welcome, even if you have no prior Cheng Man Ching Tai Chi Form experience. This workshop will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

C) Tajiquan Saber / Broadsword -- w/ Shifu David Ritchie

The taiji (tai chi) saber, said to be created by the founder of taijiquan – Zhang San Feng, is a single-edged curved weapon that was popularized by Yang, Chien Hu – the son of Yang Lu Chan (creator of Yang Style Taijiquan). Traditionally, saber was the first weapons form taught after years of empty-hand taijiquan form practice. Saber practice helps develop root, extension of your qi (internal power), “smooth” strength (tendons and joints are maximally relaxed while your body and limbs are moving naturally). Tai Chi Saber follows all the principles of taijiquan. If you own a practice saber or broadsword, please bring it along. Some wooden practice sabers will be made available for those that cannot bring one. This is a fun introduction to a special tai chi sword form.

D) Open Room for Push Hands Practice -- Staff

Daoist (Taoist) Closing Ceremony -- w/ Shifu Loretta Wollering and Tai Chi Gala Staff

*SPECIAL FOR SUNDAY* You can take part in a real Taoist (Daoist) ceremony to honor the memory of Great Teacher/Founder of the art of taijiquan, Zhang San Feng, and the founder of the original Zhang San Feng Festival of America - Master Jou Tsung Hwa. People of all faiths, beliefs, philosophies, arts and lineages are WELCOME to either participate or simply just observe. You may bring along any symbols, photos, etc., of any past teachers *YOU* wish to also honor and remember. These will be placed on a memorial "altar." Everyone is welcome here.

NOTE: Tai Chi Gala attendees can request performing a role in this closing ceremony! If you would like to play an active role in the proceedings of this Daoist event, please EMAIL: TAICHIGALA@YAHOO.COM. Positions are only open to folks who have registered, and are only available on a first come, first serve basis. Shifu Loretta Wollering will guide you in this event, based on her experience and Daoist teachings from Master Jou Tsung Hwa.

_________________________________

MONDAY - FRIDAY; JUNE 7-11:

Dr. Painter's Gathering of the Baguazhang Circle!

Register for this amazing week-long Post-Gala workshop. It's been a long-time tradition at Master Jou Tsung Hwa's Tai Chi Farm, held every year immediately after the Zhang San Feng Festival. No matter what your level of experience in the Chinese internal martial art of baguazhang, be part of this amazing tradition. You've got to at least try it once to see for yourself! Click HERE for more details!

We always have a great time together at this event. What a great way to immerse yourself in the art of baguazhang - AND immerse yourself in the highly entertaining, educating and enlightening presence of Dr. John Painter!

TaiChiGala.com is a "green website." We use environmentally-conscious hosting. If you have a website and would also like to support positive causes, click on the link above.

Brought to you by original Tai Chi Farm Zhang San Feng Festival Management of Loretta M. Wollering; & Alpha State Events

Food, Travel & Lodging...

YES! How Do I Register?

Learn All About It!

Don't Miss Out!

2010 TAI CHI GALA WORKSHOPS!

Workshop Descriptions: