At the Peaceful Dragon School, in Ann Arbor, the ancient practices of tai chi and Qigong are more than just physical exercises; they are gateways to a profound journey of self-discovery and holistic well-being. Led by Master Wasentha Young, a seasoned practitioner with decades of experience, the school is a haven for those seeking to balance their physical, emotional and spiritual selves. The teachings at the Peaceful Dragon School are deeply rooted in tradition, yet they are also dynamically adaptive, fostering a unique approach that resonates with contemporary life.

Master Young’s philosophy is centered on inclusiveness—a principle that permeates every aspect of her teaching. She believes that each student brings their own intelligence and intuition to the practice, and this individuality should be recognized and nurtured. “Whenever I’m teaching, I’m always including the perspective of the people who are participating,” she explains. This approach allows students to engage with tai chi and qigong in a way that is both personal and meaningful.

An example of this inclusiveness can be seen in how Master Young addresses the nuances of movement within tai chi. She observes that a student’s body often intuitively follows a sequence, even if it deviates from the prescribed form. Rather than correcting these movements outright, she acknowledges the intelligence behind them, guiding students to refine their practice while honoring their natural inclinations. This method helps students remain present and mindful, allowing them to fully experience the moment rather than being swept away by the momentum of their movements.

Master Young’s inclusive approach is deeply influenced by her own educational journey, which diverged from the conventional path. After experiencing the limitations of traditional education, she chose to attend Goddard College, in Vermont, an alternative institution that encouraged students to explore their personal interests and integrate academic rigor into their passions. This experience profoundly shaped her teaching methodology. At Goddard, she was asked, “What do you want to learn? What are you interested in? How are you going to learn that?” These questions not only guided her academic pursuits, but also laid the foundation for her inclusive teaching philosophy.

Her time at the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology further enriched her understanding of the mind-body-spirit connection, a cornerstone of her practice. Here, Master Young delved into the intricacies of how spirituality shapes perception and thought, and how these elements are interwoven with physical practice. This holistic view is reflected in her teaching, where she encourages students to explore what tai chi and qigong mean to them personally and how these practices can be applied to their lives and communities.

Certification at the Peaceful Dragon School is not merely about mastering forms; it’s about internalizing the principles and creating something unique that resonates with the student’s own mind and heart. Master Young inspires her students to engage with the material creatively, allowing them to contribute something new to the tradition while respecting its origins. This process is not just about preserving the art, but also about evolving it to meet the needs of today’s world.

For example, one of her students in Ann Arbor created a gentle qigong routine that integrates elements from the Wild Goose Qigong form, the Five Element Theory, and self-acupressure. This innovative approach is designed to help people harmonize with the changing seasons and manage their well-being in a way that is accessible to a broader community, including younger generations. Another student, from Wisconsin, focused on teaching the Five Animal Frolics to children, emphasizing the connection between these movements and the body’s internal energy flow. These examples illustrate how Master Young’s teachings inspire students to explore and expand the boundaries of tai chi and qigong.

Master Young’s dedication to inclusiveness also extends to her interactions with students. She learns from their insights, allowing their perspectives to shape her teaching. One student, while discussing the process of building new memories through practice, helped her appreciate the need for gentleness in teaching. This reciprocity in learning reflects the deep respect she has for her students’ experiences and the collaborative nature of her approach.

The journey of tai chi and qigong is one of continuous discovery, much like the ongoing exploration of the natural world. Master Young emphasizes that there is always more to learn and that the practice is ever evolving. She encourages her students to watch their egos, to avoid creating merely for the sake of being different, but to truly embody the spirit, mind and body connection that tai chi and qigong offer.

Master Young’s philosophy and teachings at the Peaceful Dragon School are a testament to the power of inclusiveness, mindfulness and continuous growth. By fostering an environment where students can explore and develop their unique perspectives, she ensures that these ancient arts remain vibrant and relevant in the modern world.