As we turn to our fall sessions, we’ll be shifting our park classes back indoors and online. Below you will find: -Our updated schedule for Fall Quarter: Note time changes for Saturday sessions! -Info on our Free classes for the fall session -Saturdays now have Tri-weekly Push Hands and Weapons 2 1/2 hr Intensives look below for dates and registration info -Registration for Burien Classes note: no class days for Mon pm Chen: 10/28 & 11/25, and Saturday 11/9 -5 elements charts of seasons, organs and animals -Counting in Mandarin -A fav. fall recipe for comfort – Shakshuka!
It has been a beautiful summer sharing practice in the parks. This fall we will return to online and in-person classes with the West Seattle Yang classes heading to Tuesday online and Thursday at Kenyon Hall, Capitol Hill classes will remain online on Mondays and at Seattle Akikai on Wednesday mornings and Thursday evenings. and Saturdays will shift to online for Qigong and Chen Tai Chi in the mornings and intensives every 3rd week in person at Viola’s. While we are on break, you are invited to join Jill and Bonnie for student practice at Lincoln Park on Tuesdays at 8:30am
FREE CLASSES As is our tradition, we’ll be offering free classes during the holidays
First, join us Thanksgiving Morning at 8:30am for a stress reducing grounding practice to support you in the midst of holiday bustle.
Then, we’ll have a Wringing in the New Year special spiral qigong practice on New Year’s Day at 9am.
Everyone is welcome, no experience necessary, we will be on zoom, feel free to invite your friends and family.
A link for the classes will be mailed out to the list the day before so look for it in your inbox, or email Viola to be added to the list to make sure you don’t miss getting the link.
Saturday Series: This fall our Saturday classes will feature:
-10am Yin Yang Medical Qigong Qigong, Cultivating and storing Yin energy for the colder months ahead, boosting your immunity and vitality
-11am Chen Fundamentals with a focus on refining the second half of section 2 – This is a great class for beginners and refining your practice
-Every 3rd week, we’ll meet at Viola at 1:30pm for a 2 1/2 hour special intensive with the first hour being Push Hands and the second section being implement review of Spear and Double Straight Swords and Continuing our development of the Single Straight Sword form. Cost is $50 for unlimited students or $75 for everyone else.
Dates for Sat. Intensive Sessions: 10/12, 11/2, 11/23, 12/14 (4 sessions) You can link here to register/pay.
And, for those who want to learn how to count in Mandarin:https://youtu.be/1tHcpIZKCYY?si=2uzvVY2C_3AIaTM7
And, Lastly, this is a recipe for fall comfort food. You can make this vegan and gluten free by subbing ingredients that work for you, it’s one I found in the Seattle Times called Shakshuka, a one pot go to for me, YUM! And it helps us enjoy some of our gal’s eggs for dinner (or lunch)Link here for the recipe
If you’ve not already done so, now is the time to register for our upcoming sessions.
I’ll be sending the links out for our new sessions on Sunday the 6th. Looking forward to seeing you online and in-person back at our indoor spaces.
Winter News & Class ScheduleHappy Holidays everyone! I wish the best for you during this season and a very Happy New Year! As we bring this year to a close I want to thank each of you for your continued support and enthusiasm for this practice. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these arts and continue the traditions that I’ve been privileged to learn and transmit.
Below is: Our Winter Quarter Schedule of classes which begin Jan. 8th New sessions info for Beginner’s & Seniors and Qigong for Everyone Saturday Sessions of Qigong and Chen Fundamentals Free Classes during our Break Winter Intensives – Push Hands, Swords & Kicks A favorite recipe – Orzo Soup
Winter Quarter’s classes begin January 8th and run through March 22nd.
Continuing this quarter, we have new sessions of: –Tai Chi for Beginners and Seniors on Mondays at 10:30am and Thursdays at 2pm. Both of these sessions continue online –Qigong for Everyone 6:30pm Wednesdays onlineand, –Saturday’s Qigong Special Session reviewing Yin Yang Medical Qigong & Qigong to Reduce Stress and Boost Immunity 10am -Winter Quarters Special Saturday afternoon intensives: –Push Hands and Swords Review –Tai Chi Kicks what are they and how You can do them
While we are on break, join us for some FREE PRACTICE SESSIONS:New Year’s Day, Monday Jan. 1st, ONLINE at 9:30am Spiral Qigong to wring in the New Year! Look for the Link in separate email arriving next Sunday. Tai Chi for Everyone/Yang 24 at Burien Community Center, Tues. Jan. 2nd at 10:45am in person, just show up, no registration required.Beginner’s Chen at Burien Community Center, 14700 6th Ave. SW, Burien, 6pm Tuesday, Jan. 2nd. No need to register, just show up.Qigong for Wellness and Stress Reduction In Person and Online, Wed., Jan 3rd 10:45pm, For in-person, No need to register, just show up. For Online Access: Call BCC at 206-988-3700 to register and get link.
winter intensives:
This winter, we’ll continue with monthly intensives, Saturdays 1:30pm – 3:30pm:
-Jan 27th, Push Hands Fundamentals, Double Straight Sword last section -Feb 24th, Push Hands Fundamentals Review, Double Straight Sword Review -March 9th, All about the Kicks, What and how -March 23rd, Push Hands Review Single Straight Sword, Double Straight Sword
Each class $50 or $30 for unlimited registration students. Contact Viola if you are interested and reserve your spot.
Enjoy this easy Orzo (or Rice for GF) Soup
Please enjoy this tasty Orzo Soup Recipe that I have in my easy go to rotation of meals that I make ahead of time to heat up when I don’t want to cook or I have little time. This is an easy recipe I vary depending upon what we have and it is always good. From our table to yours Happy Holidays.
Whew! Congratulations! You made it to the end. We are on break through Jan. 7th. Until then, wishing you the best for the holidays with love, peace, and ease. See you in one of our free sessions or in the New Year! Peace, Joy, and Love to you, Viola
We are in the midst of our 2-week spring break. Spring session begins April 10th with our Saturday classes returning to Pratt Park. Please check below for:
World Tai Chi Qigong Day Free Class
The updated Spring Class Schedule
Returning to the Parks
Free Classes the First Week of April with Burien Community Center
Spiral Qigong is Back!
Weapons Intensives and weekly Saturday review
World Tai Chi Qigong Day is April 29th! Join us for this wonderful annual event from 10am to noon on Saturday, April 29th at Cal Anderson Park on Capitol Hill to share practice of Qigong and Tai Chi with people around the planet as we circle the globe with positive energy and shared practice with a wave beginning in New Zealand and moving time zone by time zone. Everyone Welcome! ** Note that our regular Saturday classes will be canceled for this special event.
This spring we’ll be returning to the parks!
Saturday’s beginning in April we’ll be at Pratt Park for the Spiral Qigong at 9:30am, Chen Fundamentals at 10:45am, and Weapons practice 11:45am.
For our Yang 108 class in West Seattle, we’ll continue online on Tuesdays and at Kenyon Hall through April, then beginning in May, we’ll take to Lincoln park for both Tues. & Thurs. as the weather permits. If the weather is inhospitable, we’ll return to the April schedule of Tuesdays online and Thursdays at Kenyon. A determination will be made the night before. Check the Wise Orchid Facebook Page for updates or message Viola if unsure.
For Capitol Hill’s 7:30am Qigong and 8:45am Chen Wednesday mornings, we’ll be at Emerald City Aikido through April, then beginning in May, we’ll move outside to Miller Park having the ECA Dojo as a backup in case of foul weather.
– FREE CLASSES –
The first week of April, you are invited to join us for the following free classes hosted by Burien Community Center:
-Tuesday, April 4th, 6pm In-Person Beginning Chen Tai Chi at Burien Community Center -Wednesday, April 5th, 10:45am ONLINE Qigong for Stress Reduction and Wellbeing, contact BCC at: 206-988-3700 to reserve your spot and receive the link for Zoom. -Thursday, April 6th, 10:45am Tai Chi for Everyone, Yang 24 In-Person at the Burien Community Center.
Both In-Person classes Tuesday evening and Thursday morning do not require advanced registration. Just show up. Please share and help spread the word.
Spiral Qigong is Back!
Join us 9:30am Saturdays at Pratt Park (and Online via Zoom) this spring for Spiral Qigong. This unique and dynamic practice comes from the 5 element 12 Animal XingYi practice.
The Ba Fa Pan Gen is 8 methods to firm your roots, helping you develop better stability in your lower body while improving your flexibility and range of motion in your upper body through spiraling and cleansing. It’s fun and invigorating.
Starting April 15th and running through June 17th. **note: no class 4/29 for World Tai Chi Qigong Day-Free Practice in Cal Anderson Park!
This spring we’ll be offering monthly weapons forms intensives, join us for form review and a focused breakdown of Double Straight Swords on April 15th, May 13th, and June 10th. 2-3:30pm
As always, it is an honor and delight to share these arts with you. We’ll be on break through April 9th. Don’t forget to register for classes starting on April 10th.
Cheers from Cape Flattery, with Patience, Peace & Practice, Viola
Happy Holidays everyone! I wish the best for you during this season and a very Happy New Year! As we bring this year to a close I want to thank each of you for your continued support and enthusiasm for this practice. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these arts and continue the traditions that I’ve been privileged to learn and transmit.
Below is: Our Winter Quarter Schedule of classes which begin Jan. 9th New sessions info for Beginner & Seniors and Qigong for Everyone Saturday Sessions of Qigong and Chen and new sessions at BCC Free Classes during our BreakWinter Weapons Intensives A favorite recipe, my Winter Solstice Mediterranean Stew and, a recording of our free Thanksgiving Practice for you to enjoy!
Winter Quarter’s classes begin January 9th and run through March 24th. Please note there will be no classes from February 23rd to 27th for our Mid-Winter Break.
While we are on break, join us for some FREE PRACTICE SESSIONS:
–Solstice Standing Post and Silk Reeling 6pm, Wed. Dec. 21st ONLINE. Follow link for info and registration –New Year’s Day, Sunday Jan. 1st, ONLINE at 9:30am Spiral Qigong to wring in the New Year! Link for info and registration –Beginner’s Chen at Burien Community Center, 14700 6th Ave. SW, Burien, 6pm Tuesday, Jan. 3rd. No need to register, just show up. -Burien ONLINE Qigong for Wellness and Stress Reduction, Wed., Jan 4th 10:45pm, Call BCC at 206-988-3700 to register and get link. –Tai Chi for Everyone at Burien Community Center, Thurs. Jan. 5th at 10:45am in person, can just show up, no registration required.
winter weapons intensives
This winter, we’ll continue with monthly weapons forms intensives, Saturdays 2pm:
-Jan 28th, Single Broadsword -Feb 18th Review Double Broadswords and Spear -March 18th Review Single Straight Sword and Intro to Double Straight Swords
Each class $75 or $25 for unlimited registration students. Contact Viola if you are interested. Beginners welcome to the Single Broadsword class.
Solstice Mediterranean Stew for you
Please enjoy this tasty Mediterranean Stew recipe that I first discovered on Solstice 2004, our anniversary. I’ve been making it on the regular ever since. From our table to yours Happy Holidays. (thank you Sophia!)
Whew! Congratulations! You made it to the end. We have classes through this Saturday, 12/17 and then are on break. See you in one of our free sessions or in the New Year! Peace, Joy, and Love to you, Viola & Rus
Though we won’t be heading to Costa Rica this winter break (save your spot now for 2023!), we are looking forward to some local retreats this coming year.
We have a couple adventures in mind and hope to bring you to Southern Oregon for a Tai Chi & Qigong retreat and birding adventure in the spring, and then in the fall, the Olympics for an opportunity to immerse in nature and practice.
We are still working out the dates and details, so stay tuned and let me know if one of these sounds interesting to you.
Schedule:
With the presence of a new variant of unknown severity, we’ll be continuing to work both online and in person with hybrid classes this winter. Above is our schedule and classes are open for registration now.
We’ll start the quarter with some free classes online the first week of January before our sessions begin and then the week our regular classes start, I’ll be teaching some free classes through the Burien Community Center both morning and evening, in-person, and online.
Please note that proof of vaccination, masks, and social distancing are required for all in-person sessions so that we can continue to offer these classes and maintain everyone’s safety and health.
And, if you are not feeling well, please stay home and take care. Most all in-person classes are hybrid which means that you are able to watch the recording or attend online if you cannot make it in-person. Let me know if you have any questions in that regard.
Remember that the recordings are only saved for 30 days from the date of the class before being auto deleted. Please let me know if there is a class that you found particularly valuable and I can save it off of cloud for future reference.
Please note that the classes offered through the Burien Community Center are separate from the Wise Orchid registration and you need to register for them directly through the community center.
Registration for the BCC opens on Dec. 13th. If you would like to attend the Free sessions the second week of January, no registration necessary, just show up, or contact the BCC for the link for the online class.
Free Classes offered at the Burien Community Center: -Chen Tai Chi for Beginners, IN-PERSON, Tuesday, January 11th at 6pm -Qigong-Immunity, Balance & Vitality, ONLINE, Wed., Jan. 12th, 10:45am -Tai Chi for Beginners/Seniors, IN-PERSON, Thur., Jan. 13th, 10:45am
Free Intro classes online first week of January In addition to the above-mentioned free classes being offered at the Burien Community Center, I’ll be offering a few Free online classes the first week of January, before our Winter Sessions begin. Please join me and invite anyone you think would be interested. -Wed., Jan. 5th, 8:30am Qigong – 5 Animal Frolics -Wed., Jan. 5th, 10am Chen Taiji Silk Reeling, Standing, form play -Thur., Jan. 6th, 8:30am Yang Taiji – 108 Play -Thurs., Jan. 6th, 6pm Chen Taiji – Old Frame Play
To participate in the above free sessions, please contact Viola via email and you’ll be sent the link.
Inclement Weather Policy: With Winter being here and colder days ahead, please note the following inclement weather policy: If the local public schools are closed, in-person class will be cancelled (held online only if hybrid). If the schools have late opening, then the afternoon and evening sessions will be held, but the morning sessions will be cancelled (online only). Seattle Public Schools FB Page for up to date info https://www.facebook.com/SeattlePublicSchools You can also contact me or check our FB page for updates about changes to class location or cancellation.
If the class is hybrid and we are not able to meet in person, we will hold the class online only.
**HOLIDAY SPECIAL for Private Lessons For the holidays, I am offering a special for private sessions. Invest in deepening your practice through one on one sessions in the new year. -Single Class $95 ($10 savings) -3 class package $275 ($40 savings)Prepayment by December 31st only.
**SPECIAL HOLIDAY New Student Class Pass Beginner’s packages are a 4 class package for new students, normally $75, now through the end of the year take advantage of our special holiday price of $50. All 4 classes must be used within 1 month’s time and used by the end of Winter Quarter 2022.
Breathing and softening and keeping on, looking forward to you joining me.
We made it through winter! We made it through the last year! I will spare you another retrospective of our year of covid. It’s time to put that in our rearview mirror and look ahead to the positives of keeping practice going and the growth we continue to cultivate. I’m glad to be here and grateful for you showing up and sharing these arts with me.
Our last West Seattle in-person group class met in Lincoln Park on March 17th, 2020 (pictured above). Being resourceful we’ve found a way to continue to meet with the help of the internet, technology, adding lights and upgrading camera and microphones. I think I may have this figured out. See below.
Now…
Spring is the season that correlates with the element of Wood in Chinese Medicine, which corresponds to the Liver and Gallbladder. Below, you will find more info about how to support these organs as we emerge from our winter hibernation.
Below you’ll find our schedule of classes for Spring Sessions, and links to register, info on the upcoming Spiral Qigong fundraising workshop, free classes, updates about our Costa Rica Retreat in January 2022, and news about the Studio.
Our Spring Schedule:
During spring break, we are offering another fundraising workshop to help support organizations doing good work. Please click here for information on which organizations we are looking to support with our Spiral Qigong Fundraiser on Saturday, March 27th at 10am – 11:20am.
Our Spring Sessions kick off on April 5th.
During first week of the session we are offering a couple free classes that are open to everyone.
Then, Burien Community Center is offering a free online class at 10:45am on Wed. April 7th to introduce the practice of the Joint Lubrication Longevity Qigong and the Yin Yang Medical Qigong. Please call the Burien Community Center at 206-988-3700 to register.
Many of you have received your first or even second shot of the Covid vaccine, and for many others, the promise of having all adults vaccinated by summer gives hope for us to be able to emerge from our homes and be able to share practice in person.
So please come and join us in Costa Rica next January for a transformational experience diving into beauty, practice, and self care.
And about Spring…
With seeds sprouting, flowers blooming, and the sun warming the earth, there is a sense of renewal and new life all around.
As winter is a time to conserve energy and reduce activity, spring is a time of regeneration, new beginnings, and a renewal of spirit.
In the Chinese Medical tradition, spring is a time for cleansing and rejuvenation for overall health and well-being. Correlating to the wood element relating to the liver and gallbladder, these two organs are good to focus on for springtime cleansing. The liver is responsible for smooth flow of Qi through the body. If the liver is functioning smoothly so too will the physical and emotional. Optimal health begins in the spring by moving your Qi. Below is the 5 Animal Frolics Tiger video that you can use to strengthen your eyes and tendons.
Stretch – The liver controls the tendons. According to Chinese medicine, the liver stores blood during periods of rest and then releases it to the tendons in times of activity, maintaining tendon health and flexibility. Which is a good reason to incorporate a morning stretch into your routine. Join us for the morning Qigong on Mondays & Wednesdays at 7:30am or the Spiral Qigong on Saturdays at 9am to activate the circulation of Qi and lubricate your joints.
Eye Exercises – The liver opens into the eyes. Although all the organs have some connection to the health of the eyes, the liver is connected to proper eye function. Remember to take breaks when looking at a computer monitor for extended periods of time and do eye exercises including your Qigong and Tai Chi.
Eat Green – Green is the color of the liver and of springtime. Eating young plants – fresh, leafy greens, sprouts, and immature cereal grasses – can improve the liver’s overall functions and aid in the movement of Qi.
Taste Sour – Foods and drinks with sour tastes stimulate the liver’s Qi. Put lemon slices in your drinking water, use vinegar and olive oil for your salad dressing. Garnish your meal with a slice of dill pickle.
Do more outdoor activities – Outside air helps liver Qi flow. Come join our Saturday practices in Pratt Park. 1pm All Levels Tai Chi practice and 2pm Double Broadswords.
A favorite salad: -Spinach -Feta -Strawberries -Toasted walnuts -Topped with lemon and olive oil Adjust proportions for your own taste.
Lastly…It is with a heavy heart that I share with you the news that our beloved studio, which has been offered for lease for at least 6 months now, has been finally been rented to a new tenant who will take over our lease as of April 1st.
After paying 12 months of rent for a space that we’ve not been able to share, I am both grateful to everyone who helped bring the light and energy to make this space Wise Orchid’s home for 5 years, and incredibly sad that these walls will no longer be a space we call home. I admit it is a relief to no longer be paying rent.
What I know is that when the time is right and we are able to resume in-person classes that we’ll find the right space for us and that it will be its own wonderful place.
I will be there on Monday the 29th in the afternoon. Please let me know if you’d like to drop by to pick up your shoes if any are still there, or contact me to make other arrangements. If you can’t make it and your shoes are there, I will keep them and make sure you can get them back.
With brighter days ahead, I look forward to seeing you in a couple of weeks and sharing more good practice. Take good care, stay safe, and keep breathing. Much love and gratitude, Patience, peace & practice, Viola
After being away from the studio now for 9 months I can’t even begin to express my wish to be with you all in person and sharing practice. And yet, you’ve shown up, logged onto Zoom and continued to join me. You have inspired me, helped me grow to better teach you and been incredibly patient and gracious as we all do our best in the midst of so many challenges. I promise to be here, holding the zoom door open for you to help you find your feet when everything else seems too crazy to bear.
Bless you all for your continued support. The studio is still enduring. This practice is good medicine and helps us return to center when it seems as though everything else is falling apart.
We’ll be on break for two weeks from December 19th through January 3rd. And from there, Winter Quarter will run from January 4th through March 19th.
Below you will find information about: Free classes coming up during our Break, Winter Quarter Class Schedule with links to register, NEW Free Intro Class happening on the first Tuesday of each month, Tips on staying healthy this winter along with one of my favorite recipes And, a video of the Yin Yang Medical Qigong which will be the focus of our Qigong practice on Saturdays this Winter.
Starting next year, we’ll be offering a FREE to all Intro to Tai Chi & Qigong class at 6pm the first Tuesday of each month. You can follow this link for more information and please feel free to share with friends and your network.
Here is a favorite recipe I make throughout the year, but is particularly yummy in the winter.
Winter health tips & recipe In traditional Chinese Medicine, Winter is associated with the Water element – your Kidneys and Bladder. Imbalances arising as the cold of winter sets in may manifest as: lower back or knee pain fatigue tinnitus memory issues menstrual pain lowered libido poor circulation fearful emotions (anxiety and phobias) urinary disorders
Good balance of the Kidneys and Bladder helps you manage stress, sleep better, and avoid the above-mentioned problems.
Here are 3 tips for Winter Wellness to support your Kidneys and Bladder:
1. Go Inward, Reflect, Take time to be still and quiet. Give yourself time each day to be still, sit or stand and go inside yourself with breath and calm. Start with a minute and increasing a little each day up to 5, 10, 20 min. (uh, sounds like Qigong, right?)
2. Keep warm. Cover up, avoid exposure. Use a hot water bottle or heating pad to warm your feet and or back before bed. This can help if you have back pain or a tendency to have cold extremities. It is important to not walk barefoot on cold floors, to avoid cold entering into the body.
3. Healthy Winter Meals. Eat warm nourishing foods, warm beverages, teas that are easier for your body to digest. Avoid cold foods and beverages which drain your energy and are harder to absorb.
Kitchari – Curry porridge Ingredients: 1 onion diced 2 inches ginger chopped 2 stalks celery chopped 2 carrots chopped 1 C red lentils, mung or adzuki (washed) 1 C basmati rice (washed) and combination of any fresh veg: potato, cauliflower, sweet potato, winter or summer squash, cabbage, broccoli, peppers, peas, green beans, kale, chard, whatever you like Kombu seaweed, soaked, rinsed, and chopped (start with a couple stalks, then add more as you like) optional golden raisins.
spice: Combine and adjust as you like Cumin seed 1 T mustard seed 1 T fennel seed 1 t ground coriander 1-2 t turmeric 1 t asoefodida (hing) 1/4 t (optional reduces gas) onion seed 1/2 t (nigela) whole clove 1/2 t whole cardamom pod 5 or so whole cinnamon stick 1 whole red chile 1 bay leaf 2 curry leaves pinch fenugreek seed 1 t
Salt & pepper to taste
Stock or bouillon of choice, can of chopped tomatoes
Begin with a large stainless steel soup pot. Warm it on med. heat, then add a couple T of high-quality oil once hot, add (whole hard seeds) cumin, mustard, and fennel seeds along with cinnamon stick, clove, and cardamom pods and chile (if using jalapeno, add fresh at end before serving). Brown for a few seconds to a min. and then add Onion stirring with spices and cooking till translucent add ginger, celery, carrot, and rest of spices and cook for an additional minute or two Then add and stir into spices the lentils and rice cover with 6-8 cups of water cover and cook for 20-40 minutes, depending on whether using light red lentils or adzukis, until rice and lentils are cooked. Add vegetables at the appropriate time to cook completely, along with raisins if like Season with salt and pepper to taste
If adding Cilantro, chop the whole bunch and add at the end before serving.
Serve with a dollop of yogurt and a squeeze of lemon
This pot usually feeds us for a week of dinners. I like to freeze some to have later. Enjoy with love from my table to yours.
NOTE: You can adapt to instant pot by doing spices with lentils and rice with pressure for 5-7 minutes, open add veg and pressure for another 5 min. Enjoy experimenting with this very flexible nourishing porridge. Can serve for any meal.
This time of year it is important to slow down. Do exercise that does not expend a great deal of energy.
And here is some Yin supportive practice to help you maintain your health and vitality through the winter. Join us on Saturdays at 9:30am as we practice and breakdown the Yin Yang Medical Qigong.
Be well, stay safe, and enjoy your holidays. I look forward to sharing practice with you soon.
With much love and gratitude in Patience, Peace & Practice, Viola
Hard to believe we’ve been enduring the pandemic (and then some) for so many months. I miss being together in-person of course, but I am also grateful to be able to see you online and share good practice in spite of us not being together.
Below you will find: – the schedule for fall, – Info on scheduling private lessons now available at the studio, as well as online or at the park, – Also, one of our own, Leo, has a son in So. Oregon who lost his home to the Alameda Fire. Look below for more info and a link to a GoFundMe where you can offer support. – A few workshops and a fundraiser to deepen your Tai Chi weapons practice and refresh your 5 animals! – And, lastly, in spite of us not being above to meet for classes in person, the studio endures. I welcome you to donate to help maintain our rent.
Fall Schedule of Classes
Private Lessons!
In order to deepen your practice, sometimes it’s helpful to have personal instruction to find ways to improve. I am now offering private lessons in person at the studio or outside following safety guidelines as well as online via Zoom. I’ve set up a calendar where you can find a time and book a lesson based on what’s available. Check it out here:
One of our own, Leo, has a son from Southern Oregon who lost his home to the Alameda fire that rampaged whole neighborhoods near Ashland. Some have asked how they can help. Here’s a link to the GoFundMe that was created to help.
This fall, we’ll be hosting a Tai Chi weapon/implement intensive each month on Saturday afternoons in Pratt Park.October 24th, from 1:30pm to 3pm, Double Broadswords, come to review what we’ve trained so far and work the next section.November 21st, from 1:30pm to 3pm, Plum Blossom Spear White Ape Staff will be reviewed and refined, and thenDecember 12th, from 1pm to 2:30pm we’ll train the Chen Single Straight Sword. If you would like to attend these sessions, please register with Sifu Viola by email indicating your preference of in-person or online.
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“Climate Change is no longer some far off problem; it is happening here, it is happening now.” – Barack Obama
With the devastation of the fires throughout the western states, I would like to offer a special workshop to support the efforts to combat climate change. On Saturday, Oct. 17th, 1:30pm to 3pm, you are invited to share a Special 5 Animal Frolics workshop to raise money for 350.org. Suggested donation $50.
https://vimeo.com/460047587
The Spirit of the Wise Orchid Studio endures!
Reminder about Paying for tuition, support & tipping
Our Square store is easiest if you prefer to pay by credit card. (please note that a 3.5% transaction fee is charged) Please note that there is now a tip option on our square store. This is completely voluntary and an option if you’d like to provide extra support.
Studio Support: We also have a donation option on the square store now if you are interested in making a separate contribution. The contributions help us pay for our Studio lease and the additional expenses in bringing your online content. Please let me know if you have any questions and know that no amount is too small and any amount is completely voluntary and deeply appreciated. Other ways to pay: You are welcome to use one of the following free apps. Zelle: https://www.zellepay.com/ Venmo https://venmo.com/ (@Viola-Brumbaugh) All you need is my phone 206-321-0613 or email: viola@wise-orchid.com The money comes directly into my account without a transaction fee on either side.
Check: feel free to mail a check to: Viola Brumbaugh, 1311 12th Ave S B201, Seattle WA 98144
And lastly, other support you can offer: We have a Patreon account set up if you’d like to make a monthly contribution. You can choose any amount and set yourself up for auto-payment, and cancel it at any time.Become a Patron!
Many moons ago, in another chapter of my life, I lived in Southern Oregon, very close to where the fires have wrought so much destruction.
This image is me standing atop a tree I know as Yoda.
For as long as I can remember I have gravitated toward the company of trees. Trees are excellent teachers who demonstrate much of what it takes to practice Tai Chi. These same skills can also serve you in quarantining/social distancing in the midst of a pandemic. Trees are the epitome of commitment, persistence, and patience. Flexibility and slowing down, taking your time. Putting down roots and reaching. Finding balance. Looking out to the future, I can see this covid-time as another chapter of delving into practice, at mindfulness to maintain health, mental, physical as well as spiritual, in the midst of much loss, suffering, strife, and grief.
Yet there is striving, there is beauty, and there is the long march forward … equality, balance, practice, skill. All testing our patience and persistence.
Take good care, practice well, and persevere dear friends.
Summer session is here! Thank you all for sharing practice during our free sessions while on break, and also for the participating and support for our Black Lives Matter fundraising Spiral Qigong workshop last weekend. If you would like to make a contribution to BLM Seattle, follow this link.
Also, tomorrow morning begins our summer sessions! The codes and passwords for the online sessions have been sent to those I have registered, so if you didn’t receive them, please let me know. The links are no longer available on the calendar, so once you received the log in info, please save it for easy access for the rest of the quarter.
We have made a plan to teach the Wed. evening classes through SSC, also online beginning Wed., July 22nd, Yang 24 Tai Chi at 5:30 – 6:50 and Qigong from 6:30 to 7:20pm, both of which are open for registration now through SSC following these highlighted links.
More info below on our summer schedule of classes, how to register or offer support, as well as booking private lessons online, easily seeing available days and times.
I’m excited to be sharing practice with you, even if we are not together in person, I feel grateful for this connection through shared practice, building and maintaining good health and vitality.
Please stay safe and take good care.
Patience, peace & practice, Viola ———————————— SUMMER SCHEDULE OF CLASSES Day and Class MONDAY Qigong 7:30am Chen Taijiquan 8:45am Tai Chi for Seniors 10:30am Chen Taijiquan 6pm TUESDAY Yang Tai Chi 8:30am WEDNESDAY Qigong 7:30am Chen Taijiquan 8:45am Burien Tai Chi & Qigong for Immunity, Wellness, Vitality 10:45am SSC Yang 24 for Beginners 5:30pm SSC Qigong, Health of Body, Mind & Spirit 6:30pm THURSDAY Yang Tai Chi 8:30am Tai Chi for Seniors 2pm Chen Taijiquan 6pm FRIDAY Adv. Chen Taijiquan 8:45am SATURDAY Spiral Qigong 9am Chen Taijiquan 10am Tai Chi Weapons 1pm, at Pratt Park
Please note that classes through South Seattle College & Burien Community Center require registration directly with them and are not included in the Wise Orchid Unlimited registration.
Reminder about Paying for tuition, support & tipping: Our Square store is easiest if you prefer to pay by credit card. (please note that a 3.5% transaction fee is charged) Please note that there is now a tip option on our square store. This is completely voluntary and an option if you’d like to provide extra support.
We also have a donation option on the square store now if you are interested in making a separate contribution. The contributions help us pay for our Studio lease and the additional expenses in bringing your online content. Please let me know if you have any questions and know that no amount is too small and any amount is completely voluntary and deeply appreciated. Other ways to pay:You are welcome to use one of the following free apps. Zelle: https://www.zellepay.com/ Venmo https://venmo.com/ All you need is my phone 206-321-0613 or email: viola@wise-orchid.com The money comes directly into my account without a transaction fee on either side.
Check: feel free to mail a check to: Viola Brumbaugh, 1311 12th Ave S B201, Seattle WA 98144
And lastly, other support you can offer: We have a Patreon account set up if you’d like to make a monthly contribution. You can choose any amount and set yourself up for auto-payment, and cancel it at any time.Become a Patron! Private Lessons: Now available in person (at a distance) or online! In order to deepen your practice, sometimes you need a closer look at your practice. I am now offering private lessons in person outside following safety guidelines as well as online via Zoom. I’ve set up a calendar where you can find a time and book a lesson based on what’s available. Check it out here:book a lesson here!
Hello everyone, this is our summer newsletter where I will share with you a whole lot of information: -First, an update about the pandemic and plans for our summer sessions, -The end of our Spring Sessions and our two-week break ahead that includes some FREE CLASSES -The Spiral Qigong fundraising workshop, standing in support and solidarity with Black Lives Matter -Info on registration, payment, support & tipping -Private lessons and how to schedule them, why they are valuable -AND, a survey to help us make good choices going forward. Your feedback is most valuable Join us for Summer Sessions Online!
Below is a list of the current schedule of ONLINE classes set to begin July 6th. We have our first Burien Online class continuing on Wednesdays.
And, I’m looking into collaborating with South Seattle College to continue bringing you the Wednesday evening Yang 24 and Qigong classes (not yet listed). Let me know if you are interested in these classes and I will let you know if they’ll be happening through the college or if we will be running them separately this quarter and what dates they’ll start.
NOTE: the Saturday Tai Chi Weapons class will be in person and is therefore limited to 5 participants.View playback of classes for more practice!
By the way, did you know that all our online classes are recorded and available for playback for at least 30 days after the class! You can repeat the class as many times as you like!
Everyone is welcome to these classes, so please share this info with friends who you think may be interested. Please email me to RSVP so that I know you’ll be coming and can let you in. This will help prevent zoom bombing. Saturday, June 27th, 10am I’ll be offering a Spiral Qigong Intensive Workshop by Donation to Support Black Lives Matter-Seattle.
I want to help fight against racial bias, systemic racism, and oppression of the Black community. If you are actively letting your voice be heard, please stay safe (follow this link for tips on how).
Our Square store is easiest if you prefer to pay by credit card. (please note that a 3.5% transaction fee is charged) Please note that there is now a tip option on our square store. This is completely voluntary and an option if you’d like to provide extra support.
We also have a donation option on the square store now if you are interested in making a separate contribution. The contributions help us pay for our Studio lease and the additional expenses in bringing your online content. Please let me know if you have any questions and know that no amount is too small and any amount is completely voluntary and deeply appreciated.
The money comes directly into my account without a transaction fee on either side.
Check: feel free to mail a check to: Viola Brumbaugh, 1311 12th Ave S B201, Seattle WA 98144
And lastly, other support you can offer: We have a Patreon account set up if you’d like to make a monthly contribution. You can choose any amount and set yourself up for auto-payment, and cancel it at any time. Become a Patron!
Private Lessons!
In order to deepen your practice, sometimes you need a closer look at your practice. I am now offering private lessons in person outside following safety guidelines as well as online via Zoom. I’ve set up a calendar where you can find a time and book a lesson based on what’s available. Check it out here:
Eventually we will meet again and share practice in person again whether in the Studio, Burien, South Seattle College, West Seattle, or Costa Rica.
In the meantime, I welcome you to my living room/dining room in a space where no matter how far apart we are, we can be together. I’ve struggled to feel a connection in this new platform, so I always appreciate seeing you, hearing your voice, getting your thumbs-up 👍 , and questions when you’re not clear.
So in that regard, I ask you to please help me improve and know what is working and where you’d like to see this going by linking here and doing this short survey.
I find it hard to articulate the range of emotions and thoughts I have regarding this time we are living in. There is a spectrum that is very yin and yang and reminds me that, like our practice, it helps to work my way back to the middle where there is balance. I find relief from my anguish over all the loss of life from the joy of baking and the magic of nature.
I am full of grief and rage for the loss of Black lives and the systemic racism, violence & oppression in our country and yet I am hopeful about the future and the beauty of the protests and art being created, the conversations being had, the eyes and hearts beginning to open.
I hope that you too are finding balance. Let your rage fuel your action for positive change and look to gratitude for healing. I say this to you and to myself.
I am ever grateful to be joined by you and am honored to share this practice. Thank you for what you’ve taught me this last quarter in all the feedback and participation in classes.
Saturday, June 27th, 10am I’ll be offering a Spiral Qigong Intensive Workshop by Donation to Support Black Lives Matter-Seattle. 
