YMAA Retreat Center Newsletter - Issue #13

December 2009

• The First Semester of Year 2 is Complete
• Dr. Yang December 2009 Seminar in South America
• Seminar Testimonials
• Dr. Yang's Upcoming Seminars in Boston, February 2010
• Sign Up Now for the 2010 Summer Seminars
• New Kung Fu for Kids DVD
• Help Support the Retreat Center

As 2009 comes to a close, we pause to thank our many supporters around the world. We are truly grateful for the growing community fostered by our common interest in preserving traditional martial arts. Especially in light of the troubled economy in this difficult year, it gives all of us at the YMAA Retreat Center great comfort and confidence to know that so many people support this amazing project. Together, there is nothing that we cannot accomplish.

The First Semester of Year 2 is Complete

The first semester of Year 2 began in September 2009 and was completed in mid-December 2009. The disciples have made significant progress in their training, 1.5 years into their 10-year training program. New on-board this year are Zach Cohen and Javier Rodriguez. They have trained hard to get up to speed with those who started in the previous year. Fundamentals training has continued throughout 2009 to develop the disciples' body conditioning and endurance for future studies. Dr. Yang reports that the students are physically stronger and faster this year, especially in leg training. Their martial arts skills are improving, especially Taijiquan applications. He also has noted much better self-discipline and focus in their meditation studies. In addition to their martial arts training, the students have continued their studies of Chinese language, video editing, and music. A guest instructor, Scott Stroot, donated some musical instruments to the center and gave weekly lessons in music theory and technique. You may watch their most recent video at the link below, featuring the recently completed outdoor training area.

In other news, Kung Fu Tai Chi magazine will feature a cover story on Dr. Yang and the Retreat Center project in their March 2010 issue, on newsstands Feb 2nd. The magazine has been a great supporter of the project, featuring several articles about the Retreat Center, some of which were written by Retreat Center disciples. A big thanks to Gene Ching, Gigi Oh, and everyone at Kung Fu Tai Chi magazine.

» Watch the Video

Dr. Yang December 2009 Seminar in South America

Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming recently returned from a two-week trip to South America. Accompanied by Retreat Center disciples Jon Chang and Patrick Manriquez, Dr. Yang taught seminars in Taijiquan, Qigong, and Taiji Pushing Hands. The seminars were hosted by Daniel Chadud, who is now the new school director of YMAA Chile. YMAA Argentina director Mario Schwarz was also present with a group of his students. We hope that this event and similar events in the future will help the two South American YMAA schools continue to grow strong together.

» Click to Read More

Seminar Testimonials

We've received an overwhelming number of supportive emails and letters from Retreat Center visitors who have enjoyed their time training and relaxing at the Center. Thank you very much to all those who have attended a seminar or have visited otherwise. It is a pleasure to spend time with you here, and it is always especially nice to hear feedback about your visit. You may read a sampling of visitor testimonials by clicking the link below.

» Click to Read Testimonials