About
I teach a comprehinsive and non-competative martial arts. What that means is that I study and teach the internal aspects (Tai Chi, Yoga, Energy Studies, Reflexology) and the external aspects (Kickboxing, Martial Arts, Weapons, Archery). Pa Kua is an old study about the human body, the mind, and practical and theoretical techniques on how to improve ourselves and our lives.
I also think that the myself and the other teachers I work with are dedicated to living the lifestyle that we attempt to teach, which means there is a lot of knowledge and experience and not just information.
I love to improve the quality of my life and the lives around me through hard work and dedication to mental, physical, and social health. I believe that we need to come together more as a society, to grow our social connections and work with each other to improve the quality of life for all people. I love that we can come together with that goal and get a positive attitude and work with those from all walks of life.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Its important to find out what brought a student to me, the reason that they called and the reason they walked in the door to try a class. I believe that teaching someone with their own enthusiasm and interest is the only way to make real and lasting change.
At the same time, I find out what they struggle with, and what is challanging for them. Often these are the things that they need most to bring harmony and balance into their life, and so I introduce those topics alongside the ones they love to keep interest and progression, while maturing and growing as well both internally and externally.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I stared studying Pa Kua in 2005, and have been teaching sence 2008. I have certifications as a Black Belt or higher in Martial Arts, Edge Weapons, Chinese Yoga, Tai Chi, Energy Studios, Reflexology, Archery, and Kickboxing from World Pa Kua Martial Arts & Health.
My highest certification is in Martial Arts, where I'm a 5th Degree Black Belt with Distinction.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Group lessions are paid per monthly membership.
1 Class Per week is $90 per month
2 classes per week are $120 per month
3 classes per week are $150 per month
Unlimited classes per week are $180 per month
Archery classes cost an additional $30 per month
Private classes are $90 per hour. Group privates depend on group size and time.
How did you get started teaching?
I always wanted to practice martial arts, but I could never find the right place for me. The school and dojo's I went too were either too competative, or didn't have enought theory, or I didn't connect with the teacher. When I moved to LA in 2005 I happened to move in down the street from a World Pa Kua Martial Arts & Health school and started taking classes within a month of moving. I fell in love with the theory, practicel experience, and range of class that are offered throught the orginization. One thing lead to the next and now I'm one of the higher ranks in the orginization and own my own school in Burbank where I live.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all kinds of students. My oldest student is 75, and my youngest is 4. I have a student with Parkinsons, one that is partially blind, and over the years have worked with many students of different abilities and with different goals.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
This last 2 weeks I have been an Itinerant Master here at the Los Angeles Schools. What that means is that I have been evaluating students to award new ranks, teaching instructor and black belt classas, and being part of all the different things going on at the schools. It's a great experience to meet the new students, and see how the old students are proggressing. In our busy modern lives sometimes we miss each other, and so I'm very greatful to be able to regularly go and see other teachers, their schools, and their students.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for noncompetitive styles that emphasize on personal health and wellbeing. There are many school that emphasize on exact and proper techniques and forms due to competative tournaments, and this can lead to physical and mental health probloms. Always see what the teacher is like, do you want to be like that?
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
I have been very lucky that I have found in my life a mentor. Someone who I look up to and who I trust to help with with the normal questions I have in life but also to help me with the things I don't yet understand. To find someone like that is a blessing and so I try my best to do that, and to be like that for the students who I teach. Whether it is the theory we talk about in class, or the physical training that brings mental harmony, or whether it is talking with students one on one to address their concerns or questions.
I welcome all questions, and do my best to pass the ancient traditions and knowledge that I have learned and am learning to help those who need it.