Sifu David Monheit

Prior to joining Northern Shaolin Academy, I studied taekwondo, karate, aikido, and jujitsu for over 30 years under Chang Sung-Ho, Kwan-Jang-Nim. I remember him saying often during those years that a person could practice martial arts into their 70s and 80s, but not in the same way.

His statement proved true for me when I was fortunate enough to discover Sigung Smith's school over 10 years ago. Though my body could no longer endure the particular physical rigors of my earlier practices, as I've entered those decades of my life the internal practices of Tai Chi Chuan have enabled me to grow in new ways, physically and spiritually, ways that have been equally challenging and rewarding.

I am particularly intrigued by how the physical practice of Tai Chi Chuan opens the door to an awareness of the subtle body, the world of Qi, breath and yin-yang balance; that tai chi offers a path (not easy!!) to the integration of our two bodies is its greatest value to me.

I am also very much interested in how the physical practices of martial arts gives experiential meaning and life to the metaphysical Zen and Taoist readings that I have enjoyed reading and writing about through many years.

Grandmaster Smith's knowledge of martial arts stretches far beyond my horizon - but this knowledge would not be as invaluable as it is without his exceptional patience, compassion, and respect for his students.

My goal in teaching would be to impart a small fraction of what I have learned, and continue to learn, from him to others.