Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy

Tai Ji Men Cupertino & Santa Clara Academies Celebrate Joint Anniversary

The Tai Ji Men Qigong Academies in Northern California hosted a joint celebration to commemorate two significant milestones: the 23rd anniversary of the Cupertino Academy and the 1st anniversary of the Santa Clara Academy. The event, titled "Cultivate Qi for Health, Embrace a Joyful Life," was held on October 6 at 1:30 PM at the Santa Clara Academy. It featured a variety of lively performances, including dragon dancing and Celestial drumming, along with a health seminar that offered valuable insights into Tai Ji Men’s approach to fostering physical and mental well-being. Over 150 Tai Ji Men disciples and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate and wish the academies happy birthday!

The distinguished guests at the event included Nicole Waring, representing U.S. Congressman Ro Khanna; Phuong Nguyen, representing California State Senator Dave Cortese; James Wang, representing California State Assembly Members Alex Lee and Evan Low; Saratoga Mayor Yan Zhao; Milpitas Mayor Carmen Montano and Council Member Hon Lien; Santa Clara Vice Mayor Anthony Becker and Council Member Kevin Park; Cupertino Council Member Liang Chao; Fremont Council Member Yang Shao; Jenny Kuo, representing Director General Scott Lai of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in San Francisco; Judy Hsu, Deputy Director of the Culture Center of TECO in San Francisco; and former Sunnyvale Mayor Tony Spitaleri. Additionally, several members of Congress, California State legislators, and mayors sent certificates of recognition and congratulatory letters, affirming Tai Ji Men’s many years of contributions to the community. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan also sent a congratulatory letter ahead of the event.

Dr. Hong Tao-Tze, zhang-men-ren of Tai Ji Men, stated in his speech, “In 2023, we proudly established a Tai Ji Men academy at the global hub of technology in Santa Clara County, Silicon Valley. This is a place where rapid technological advancements have created incredible wonders. However, if we lose sight of ’conscience,’ these advancements could also bring unprecedented risks. It is often said that a single thought, whether good or evil, is shaped by the elevation of one’s mind. In the coming age, striking a balance between technology and conscience will be a critical challenge. With this in mind, I hope that more people will hold firmly to the goodness in their hearts and work together to create a better world.”

While presenting a certificate of appreciation on behalf of U.S. Congressman Ro Khanna, Nicole Waring stated, "The Congressman is honored to support an organization that promotes holistic well-being and fosters a sense of community in our district. Tai Ji Men embodies the spirit of unity and health.

Milpitas Mayor Carmen Montano and Council Member Hon Lien mentioned in their commendation: “The Tai Ji Men Qigong Academies in Cupertino and Sanat Clara promote health and wellness through Qigong and Tai Chi practices. It offers classes for all skill levels, workshops, and cultural events, fostering a supportive community focused on personal growth. Participants benefit from improved physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance. The academy emphasizes inclusivity, making it accessible to individuals of all ages and fitness levels, serving as a vital resource for holistic health.”

Santa Clara Vice Mayor Anthony Becker shared: “What I saw here today on stage is discipline, and it takes discipline for world peace and tolerance. So thank you very much indeed.”

Santa Clara City Council Member Kevin Park mentioned during an interview: “I’ve been to many, many events at Tai Ji Men, whether it’s Cupertino or in Santa Clara. And I’ll say, you don’t even have to say the word energy. You can feel energy. You can feel the community. You can feel that without anyone having to say a single word….I’ve known a lot of people here, and they always have the same level of excitement, they always have the same level of energy, and they always have the same level of joy on their faces. And I really wish that people could come and share in that joy, sharing that energy.”

Cupertino City Council Member Liang Chao shared that Tai Ji Men brings a tremendous amount of positive energy to the community. She was especially impressed by the children’s singing and dancing performances, which were truly captivating. As she watched from her seat, she found herself moving to the rhythm and felt an urge to get up and dance along with them. The energy was incredibly contagious.

Judy Hsu, Deputy Director of the Culture Center of TECO in San Francisco, mentioned that this was her first time visiting the Santa Clara Academy. Although she had heard of Tai Ji Men in Taiwan, she had never been directly involved. After hearing so many touching stories, she was pleasantly surprised to discover that Tai Ji Men is a place filled with love and a peaceful atmosphere, where everyone cares for one another like family. She was truly moved by the experience.

With the rapid advancement of technology, prolonged sitting and mental overexertion have become common causes of physical aches and pains. How can we prevent this? Tai Ji Men disciple and traditional Chinese medicine doctor Lu Huan-yi shared the benefits of practicing qigong in simple terms, explaining how it can help both prevent and relieve pain. First, abdominal breathing allows the lungs to fully expand, supporting the internal organs and preventing spinal issues. Second, staying relaxed and calm helps the body release tension, reducing the risk of pain. Third, Tai Ji Men Qigong is simple and easy to learn, and can be practiced at any time—whether walking, sitting, sleeping, or even while drinking water.

Tai Ji Men disciple Logan shared how practicing qigong helped him rediscover himself, enhancing his focus and organization at work while reconnecting his mind and heart. The flame artist, Ethan Chang not only recounted his bold journey to Hollywood but also expressed his deep appreciation for Tai Ji Men. Through cultural performance practice, he regained his confidence. During his ten years working in the U.S., fellow Tai Ji Men disciples frequently took care of him. He feels fortunate to live in such a loving environment and believes this good fortune is available to anyone willing to embrace it. He hopes the guests will also seize this opportunity for happiness.

The event kicked off with a breathtaking Celestial drumming performance by Tai Ji Men’s youth and young adult disciples, instantly filling the venue with electrifying energy. The vibrant Celestial dragon, symbolizing compassion and warmth, took the stage, soothing hearts and blessing the land. As the performance continued, the spirited Energy Boys & Energy Girls captivated the audience, lifting the joyful atmosphere to new heights. Their enthusiasm and confidence enveloped everyone in an overwhelming sense of happiness! This incredible display of talent and unity perfectly captured the spirit of Tai Ji Men, making the celebration truly unforgettable.