Transforming Body and Spirit

Having looked for a Nei Dan teacher for some years, and having read many of Stuart’s books, I was still a little hesitant to sign up for the Closed-Door Program. It seemed quite a commitment, and while Stuart was clearly a great author and very knowledgeable, I had no idea how he would be as a teacher. As I approach the end of the year and look back, I can say with absolute clarity that it was a great decision to sign up. I have learned a huge amount and Stuart is an amazing teacher, with Patrick and Lily providing a brilliant program structure and tech platform that works seamlessly. Studying with a group is great and supplements the 1:1 lessons. That I can go back and view the videos is also a huge bonus. As I reflect on our work together, I have hugely benefitted from the program—with a long-standing sports injury clearing up, and my energy better than ever, despite needing less sleep. This is the sort of material you simply can’t learn from a book, and if you are considering stepping on the path with Stuart and the team, I would recommend it without any doubt.
—Mark Smith

I had been practicing qigong for several years when a work-related relocation made me consider online classes. The quality of personalization and depth of these sessions have been amazing. We delve into all aspects of the practices, seeing the spiritual, emotional, and physical effects. Not only is the vastness of Stuart’s knowledge awe-inspiring, from the meditations, external movements, and internal alchemy, to the esoteric meaning of a Chinese character; but the depth of his direct experience helps you to incorporate these into daily life where they take on real meaning.”
—Leda Watanabe

The Eight Brocades course was my first encounter with the idea of internal alchemy. Stuart’s lectures and Patrick’s practice instruction were a perfect introduction. The class completely changed my experience of a seated meditation practice. I found the movements and breath practices gentle yet profoundly helpful in getting me to find a comfortable stillness. I am still practicing and learning daily.”
—Ellen Henric

After completing the 16-posture Tai Ji program, I find it incredibly relaxing and dynamic at the same time. The program format is easy to understand and the instruction is very clear. Stuart and Patrick are excellent teachers with tremendous experience and patience.”
—Blaine Brown

Stuart Olson learned Tai Ji from the legendary T.T. Liang and I was thrilled to hear that he would offer a 64-posture Tai Ji course that I could attend even though it is not close to home. The 16-posture Before Heaven program uses the computer-based medium at its highest potential. Having learned a kung fu form via the computer during the pandemic, I know how difficult it can be to absorb movement-based content via Zoom. The Sanctuary of Tao leaves nothing to chance. Everything you need to learn is provided. Their combined use of text, graphics, live and recorded explanations, and step-by-step instruction from multiple angles precisely conveys the footwork, movements, and practical applications. Their 2-, 4-, and 6-count breakdown of movements allows you to work in the proper breathing. I can replay a troubling segment as many times as necessary without worrying about distracting other students. I feel like this course takes my Tai Ji to a higher level and as an instructional designer by training, I have nothing but praise for how the class is assembled to promote synchronous and asynchronous three-dimensional remote learning.”
—Robin Downing