Teachers: Andy Holmes

Andy Holmes

I have studied Tai Chi Chuan and other Chi Kung forms since 1993. A quest to change from external physical fitness routines to a more internal approach for training led me Taiji. Before Taiji found me, I was a typical gym-rat weightlifter. Today I strengthen my body mind and spirit together from the inside out through continuing studies in the Alex Dong International Taijiquan Association. My training began within the Kai-Ying Tung Academy of Tai Chi Chuan. After several years of classes and camps with Master Tung and Jane Golden, I met Alex at Jane's summer camp in 1996.

Starting in 1997, I attended Alex's workshops and camps in Hawaii. In 1998, I invited Alex to his first West Coast U.S. workshop in Olympia, Washington. Since this time I have studied seriously, and built local classes up each year. By 2004 I was teaching 9 classes per week at three different venues in the Olympia area. I have taught thousands of people in the Washington area and now three of my longest-time students are also teachers of Dong style.

I took all of 2006 off from teaching formal classes, yet continued my own studies and teaching with private students and guest instruction. This was a welcome change which helped take me to extended training sessions with Master Alex and on other tai chi adventures. It also helped me become a better witness of the affects of my teachings on others. Starting in 2007, I am offering a new schedule with a prepratory class on the basics of movement and principles relating to Dong style. An advanced class is also forning so that students can venture deeper into training and practical applications.

Improving in Tai Chi requires learning how to change in life and when. I welcome the changes coming my way and I appreciate all that my students have indirectly taught me during the busy times when I was obligated to classes every night. Today, I can choose how and who I invest time in and I am learning in new ways.

Pacific Northwest Dong Tai Chi