“One of my guiding principles is to be of service; this I have tried to take into all of my work and personal interactions.”

Doug began studying Eastern philosophy and mind/body practices in his early teens. The Buddhist sutras, the I Ching, Yoga and Meditation were his early teachers and his curiosity about the energetic nature of our body/mind drew him to study Herbology, Iridology, Reflexology and the Touch for Health system of Kinesiology. In the 1980’s Doug became a disciple of Yogananda, practicing the Self-Realization techniques for many years. 

As Doug’s family grew he devoted his time to building a secure home, working in many fields over the years; first as a tofu maker, then sprout grower, for many years a construction trades person, and now Doug works in computer information systems for health care. In response to the stresses of modern life, including his shift from a job of physical labor to that of sedentary computer work, Doug began his study of Tai Chi in 2004. 

In 2007 after a serious illness, Doug looked to Qigong and Tai Chi to help restore his health and strength. Doug’s teachers include Sifu Kim Ivy, Grandmaster Chen Xiao Wang, Chen Xian Xing, and Dr. Gaspar Garcia. He’s traveled to China multiple times to study Tiajiquan in the Chen family school, gaining deeper understanding of Chen Taiji and greater appreciation for the family and their arts. 

Whether in the trades, computing, or on the practice floor, teaching is something that comes naturally. In both Taijiquan and Qigong, Doug embodies tradition with an ease and an infectious lightness. You will enjoy not only his ability to demonstrate the forms well but also his innovative capacity to explain the core basics in a fun and accessible way. And don’t let Doug’s broad smile fool you. You will know you’ve had a workout!