Author: Dennis Mace

Holistic Martial Arts Instructor and Illustrator, seeking the Sublime in each moment. Dedicated to inspire my students to get connected by discovering and expressing their creative inner-power. Chivalry is my way of life, I have a desire for learning and a passion to share my art with the world. I care about my students, and am committed to cultivating authentic skills in each one, to enhance their health, confidence, awareness and well-being.

The Courage to Overcome Victimhood

Five Elements (五大 Wŭ Dà or Go Dai) Earth ~ 地 Chi (Dì) - North - Spring - Green Water ~ 水 Sui (Shuǐ ) - West - Summer - Blue Fire ~ 火 Ka (Huǒ) - South - Autumn - Red Earth ~ 風 Fū (Fēng) - East - Winter - Yellow Aether ~ 空 Kū (Kōng) - Center - Year - White/Black“Look within to heal and reveal your true self”

 

We have all at some point in our lives been attacked, betrayed, or suffered trauma — how we respond, learn, and adapt to those challenges determines our personal value and sense of worth.

How we perceive and respond is the barometer of our level of failure or success in life.

Any time you start to feel sorry for yourself,

  • take account of what your situation is
  • accept your responsibility in getting there — so that you realize you have the ability to choose your perspective, and your attitude
  • only you have the power to create and change your reality
  • realize that blaming others for your situation gives all your power to them

To take your power back,

  • imagine what you would like to be different, and allow yourself to feel it to your core
  • make your dreams your aspirations, and set goals to achieve your aspirations
  • brainstorm the actions you can take to create your new reality
  • take at least one (three is better) actionable step towards that aspiration, every day

Acknowledge any excuse to not act as a self-imposed fear,

and an obstacle for you to overcome in your path to fulfilling your dreams.
If you feel stuck in a vicious cycle, or are confused, feel lost and unsure about yourself and what you want, or are wondering when your ship is going to come in,

  • the only perfect time is now — this is your life — stop waiting!
  • appreciate both the encouragement and criticism of others as fuel to inspire you to keep stepping forward on your plans and path
  • celebrate your victories and learn from failures — they are the fire, water and stone that forge, quench and polish you
  • let your dreams inspire you as you create your own path and keep dreaming and moving forward!

The state of the world is your perspective, and your projection,

  • only you have the power to change it
  • you are the Savior you seek, Divinity resides within you
  • become your own Super Hero!

Remember to have empathy and respect for others — we are all of us facing our own struggles and challenges!

All of this is what I mean when I say “look within to heal and reveal your true self”.

I bow to the Divinity within you, peace be unto you.

Sincerely,
Dennis Mace
www.MaceMartialArts.com

With the Grace of the Phoenix

Happy New Year ~ 2017!

Martial Totem - Phoenix, Hawk 19
We’ve all faced many challenges over the last year. It’s been a chaotic and unpredictable ride for me personally, with tragic lows and exhilarating joys, shocking surprises and wonderful new changes. You can probably relate, as I have witnessed similar experiences for many of my family, friends and students, and have seen the same extremes on national and global levels as well.
May we embrace our struggles as lessons for our growth and celebrate our triumphs.
May we leave behind disappointments as ashes from the past and embrace the blessings as we rise like the Phoenix, and soar forward into this New Year with gratitude and grace!

January 2017

There are 5 Sundays this coming month,
I will be holding a bonus Bagua class tomorrow to ring in the New Year together with a renewing practice at Wilcox Park!

Please RSVP if you are able to join us!

I am currently teaching Bagua Zhang classes on Sundays from 11am-12:30pm at Wilcox Park in Lynnwood, and offering private lessons as well.
I’m seeking another indoor facility in the Lynnwood/Edmonds/Mountlake Terrace area
to teach, that would include regular Bagua Zhang and Taiji Quan (Tai Chi) classes.
If you know of a good place, I’m open to suggestions!
Referral Bonus: $20 Discount off 1 Month’s Membership Tuition fees for referring a new student to enroll in classes, and a $20 Discount to the new Student that you refer for their first month!

Sacred Spirals, Classes Reduced

Sacred Spirals

Five Elements (五大 Wŭ Dà or Go Dai) Earth ~ 地 Chi (Dì) - North - Spring - Green Water ~ 水 Sui (Shuǐ ) - West - Summer - Blue Fire ~ 火 Ka (Huǒ) - South - Autumn - Red Earth ~ 風 Fū (Fēng) - East - Winter - Yellow Aether ~ 空 Kū (Kōng) - Center - Year - White/Black

Throughout the Universe, energy tends to move in spirals, naturally forming matter into spheres.

The polarity of opposites creates vortexes throughout nature — from galaxies, the movement of solar systems and the gravitational fields that create planets, hurricanes and typhoons, tornadoes, are also seen in the eddies in the currents of wind and waves. Reflected even in the growth of plants, DNA strands, and in molecular and atomic structures, the swirling patterns of the Golden Mean and Fibonacci’s Curve are omnipresent throughout the universe.

Taoist sages recognized these patterns as well, and these universal truths are reflected in Bagua Zhang, the “Eight Trigrams Palm“, a refined and formidable martial art founded on an ancient practice of meditative circle walking. The goal of this ancient circle walking practice was to increase vital energy and find attunement with the energy of the universe and enlightenment.

The Sacred Spiral is reflected not only on molecular and cosmic levels, but also in the structure of our muscles as they dynamically curve around our bones, and even in the muscle fibers themselves, like rope, or cable. Bagua Zhang systematically uses these structures in our bodies to naturally develop strength, health and maximize expression of power. Bagua Zhang emphasizes circularity and the principles of spiraling and the dynamic sphere more than any other martial art, for:

  • structure and fluid expression of force,
  • health and strength development,
  • strategies and principles of application in self defense, and
  • energetic dynamics for alchemical internal cultivation.

Moving Meditation - Bagua Zhang: The Circular Art of Transformation

More specifically, in Bagua Zhang training, the Spherical Structure is expressed in each of its foundational principles:

  • Moving from Center – with gyroscopic Centrifugal and Centripetal Force, going with the flow with continuity and non-resistance.
  • Opposite but Complimentary Force and Movement – this unifies the whole body, for maximum expression of power. Bagua is the most ambidextrous martial arts system, emphasizing training both sides of the body bilaterally.
  • Maintaining bows and curves in the body and limbs – stretching open like the arches in bridges, and bows in archery, it also applies to powerful stances and footwork, and efficient expression of force through the body, arms and hands.
  • In striking along straight lines, the force spirals like drilling.
  • In circular strikes and kicks, the hands and feet cut in elliptical arcs from one’s center.
  • In grappling, the arms & legs coil and wrap the opponent’s to counter, lock and sweep.
  • In throwing, body and hands spiral in elliptical arcs to disrupt balance of the opponent.

Energy flows in a torus spiraling around the body, as in all magnetic and gravitational fields. The Intrinsic Life-Force Energy (Qi) naturally flows to and from spherical, spiraling fields, or centers in the body – expanding (reeling outward) and contracting (reeling inward) vortexes — understanding this dynamic maximizes efficient force with minimal effort – conserving strength by utilizing the power of spherical structure and stability. Bagua Zhang’s emphasis on these coils and spirals naturally increases the practitioner’s vitality. The rigorous and balanced training stimulates the mind, increases strength, flexibility and dexterity, while also cleansing impurities, and promotes healing on physical, emotional and spiritual levels.

Bagua Zhang is truly a profound, life-changing holistic method of self-cultivation and self-defense, and why I am so passionate about sharing this amazing, life transforming practice with as many people as I can.

 

Bagua Zhang Group Classes will be held on

Saturdays 11am – 12:30pm,

Sundays 11am-12:30pm,

Thursdays 7pm-8pm,

 at:

1108 NW 200th St,
Shoreline, WA 98177

 

Please RSVP to all classes you plan to attend.

 

Register for Mace Martial Arts Membership online

 

This new schedule will provide us the opportunity to create more instructional video and written reference material of the Mace Martial Arts curriculum for my students. We are also seeking a more stable indoor location for our classes. Stay tuned for more details!

This will also free up time for private lessons —
Private lessons now $80 per hour, and $240 for a package 4 private lessons
— please *Contact me* to schedule times to continue your training.

 

Register for Private Classes here!

 

Family and and referral discounts available — for the referring student and the new students — spread the word about our Bagua Zhang classes!

Autumn Changes

20160927_161459

Welcome Changes

I am grateful and happy to announce that I have found a wonderful new location for our Bagua Zhang classes! Starting tomorrow morning, Saturday, October 1st, I will be offering class at beautiful Wilcox Park in Lynnwood.

20160927_160300-wilcox-park

 

Bagua Zhang Classes are held on

Saturday & Sunday mornings 11am-12pm,
and Tuesday & Thursday evenings 6pm-7pm

at:

Wilcox Park

5215 196th Street SW,
Lynnwood, WA 98036

20160927_161416-wilcox-park

 

Please RSVP to all classes you plan to attend, to confirm location and schedule.

See you in class soon!

Independence, Boundaries and Self Defense

DennisMace-Driftwood-07Aug2013k
Safeguard Awareness — Vision is the ability to see what others only dream

Today, we celebrate 240 years of Freedom in the United States

Freedom and Independence from oppression.

While today, we face oppression globally from corporations, we also face oppression personally, every day from the distractions and fears we give our power to, that take away from our being present and appreciating and living our lives fully.

 

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt taken advantage of, or have you felt trapped in a situation, or forced into a position were you feel berated, mocked or attacked?

 

Perhaps it was a physical attack. More commonly, on a daily basis, we face mental, emotional or spiritual attacks. All of us have been in a difficult relationship or situation at some point in our lives. You might even be living in a situation like this right now. If it happened long ago, it could still affect you in ways that you don’t even realize.

 

Most of us have had some kind of toxic relationship with a family member, friend, partner, or a professional relationship. What makes those relationships and interactions toxic? These destructive patterns and relationships trigger and control us by feeding our fears, dominating and belittling us, instead of feeding the purpose and potential of our unique soul. These toxic relationships are insidious in that they can affect our inner-dialogue and sense of self, when we believe the criticisms and fears of others.

 

Training in martial arts points to a larger truth — self-defense encompasses all dimensions of a person’s being, setting healthy boundaries for ourselves on all levels:
  • spiritually
  • mentally
  • emotionally
  • physically

 

Setting healthy boundaries with others means taking your power back from anyone who would manipulate, steal from or attack you. In any way. This applies to all relationships in your life, whether they be strangers, acquaintances, friends, family, co-workers, classmates, spouses and partners, past and present — and even yourself, if you have internalized their attacks and criticisms.

 

Setting healthy boundaries helps you maintain your focus, vitality and health — and may even save your life. To create healthy relationships with nurturing family and friends — it must first start with yourself. You must find and appreciate your own unique value and cherish your own nature. Then you can create boundaries to protect what you care about.

 

If your boundaries are crossed, get centered and present — reclaim your power, so you can deal with a potential threat to your balance and well being.

 

When we compromise our sense of what’s right for us, our boundaries are compromised, and we loose or give away our power. 
When we are irritated at others, and feel annoyed at them and feel the need to criticize or condemn them, pay close attention to the impulse behind it — is it some trait we hate or refuse to see in ourselves? 
Think back to a time when a friend or family member judged or criticized us, and made us feel flawed, unworthy, bad or wrong. If the criticism comes from a place of compassionate support — I like to call “Heavy Metta”, or “tough love” — we usually feel an “aha” moment that inspires us to catharsis and growth. 
But if the criticism is aggressive, mean spirited or cruel, it usually comes from a place of self-righteous indignation, intolerance and anger rooted in insecurity, spiteful self-loathing and internal-ignorance of the aggressor. In these situations, if we accept and believe the judgement of others, it sucks our spirit by giving our power away to the person(s) who is lashing out to fill their own internal conflict and fear.
If the attack is physical, the aim is to dominate or steal some sense of power, energy, resources or life from us — whether personal or impersonal. Likewise, if the attack is emotional, mental or spiritual, it also steals our life, energy and resources from us.
So in martial arts training, we learn to be present, and self-aware that we can create healthy, nurturing boundaries for ourselves and our families, friends, communities and country. It all starts with ourselves, to be the change we want to see in the world.

Register for Private Classes Online

Stress Less and Protect Yourself

Essential Energy Karen & Dennis 28Jan2016-35
Protect yourself with Mace Martial Arts training, and Stress Less with Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils!

Stress Less with Essential Oils

 

I’ve been familiar with the benefits of essential oils for several years, from when I was studying and practicing massage therapy. I’d heard of doTERRA, but I hadn’t actually used the brand until September of last year, when I was invited to attend the International doTERRA annual convention in Utah. I have to admit I was blown away by the high quality and diversity of their products, and even more so with the integrity of the company and their leadership in environmental and social consciousness. That weekend was a life-changing experience, and I knew this was something I had to be a part of.

I’ve been using the oils daily since then, learning about the benefits first hand as I feel steady improvements in my health, energy levels, focus and balance; after sharing with my family and martial arts students, I’m grateful for witnessing their excitement with the results they’ve experienced too. I’ll be sharing the oils again with 2 free presentations I’ll be giving to family and friends when I visit Omaha in March:
Stress Less with Essential Oils – Friday, March 11, 2016 – Bellevue, NE
Stress Less with Essential Oils – Saturday, March 12, 2016 – Papillion, NE

If you are open to alternative forms of health care, tell me some of your health goals — I’m happy to share some samples of essential oils for you to try for yourself. If you’d like to learn more, I’d love to meet with you, either one on one, or to set up a small gathering with some of your family and friends for a personal presentation.  I’m confident these oils will have a profound impact on your life as well!

 

Protect Yourself with Mace Martial Arts

Also during my next visit to Omaha in 2 weeks, I will be teaching a 2 part workshop on Bagua Zhang (“8 Trigrams Palm”) and Self Defense, on Sunday, March 13th, from 10am to 2:30pm.

Learn to boost your confidence, awareness, strength and flexibility with practical, hands on training and no-nonsense techniques for defending yourself.

Part 1: Moving Meditation ~ Bagua Zhang : The Circular Art of Transformation — focusing on developing awareness and coiling power for flexibility, health and self-defense

Part 2: Self Defense and Awareness — focusing on awareness, evasion, and body weapons that women and even small children can use to protect themselves

Instructor:

Shifu Dennis Mace has been training and teaching holistic Martial Arts and Qi-Gong since 1982. His thorough, hands on approach, emphasizing courtesy and ethics, and his commitment to cultivating each student’s authentic skills and improving their overall health and empowerment has contributed to his widespread popularity in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

 

Start the New Year with Essential Energy

Rejuvenate your vitality with the Essential Energy Online Course starting next week — each Monday in January!

Karen & Dennis - EssentialEnergyWorkshop - Arcata CA 11Oct2015b

Essential Energy 4-Week Online Course

 

Over the last few months since Karen and I began sharing our Essential Energy Workshops, we’ve been flooded by the gratitude and rejuvenation of the participants –ranging from children to seniors — and that has been so rewarding for us!

 

We received invitations to teach in different parts of the world from people who are eager to learn this powerful and unique combination of vitality cultivation and certified pure therapeutic grade Essential Oils. Since we can’t make it to all of those places, we created an Online Essential Energy 4-Week Course — coming to your living room each Monday in January — starting next week!

 

The key to building your energy is consistency. Let us help you be more consistent!

 

In each of the 1 hour lessons, we will review and build on the basics we covered in the Essential Energy Live Workshops, as well as introduce new exercises and principles to help you create your own life-enhancing daily practice.

 

The class will be held via Zoom Video at 10-11am Pacific Standard Time.

http://restoremethod.com/essential-energy-online-course-recording/

 

 

If you are eager to learn, but can’t make the live class time — or if the live sessions are already reserved — we are offering access to a recording of the Essential Energy 4-Week Online Course, for a limited time.

 

Register now for the Essential Energy 4-Week Online Course here!

 

We’ll see you in class soon — Happy New Year to you and your dear ones!

 

Sincerely, with Love,

Dennis and Karen

About the Instructors:

Karen Atkins – AdvCBP, AdvCBI, LMT, Certified Wudang Qigong Instructor

Karen Atkins Mandala 05
Karen Atkins cultivates practices that help people take better care of themselves and find their optimal state of being on all levels. Through “Restore Your Soul”, an awareness based business, Karen supports lifestyle education and transformation through nourishment, Qi Gong, essential oils, BodyTalk, music, and other therapeutic methods. She has recently been featured on Ted Talks and Good Morning America.
* Dennis Mace – LMT, Yiliquan Kung Fu Black Belt, Formal Disciple of Yang Guotai

Dennis Mace 29Sep2015

Shifu Dennis Mace has been training and teaching holistic Martial Arts and Qi-Gong since 1982. His thorough, hands on approach, emphasizing courtesy and ethics, and his commitment to cultivating each student’s authentic skills and improving their overall health and empowerment has contributed to his widespread popularity in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Sharing the Dream of Essential Energy and Bagua

Sharing the Dream of Essential Energy

When Karen Atkins & I started collaborating to create the Essential Energy Classes a couple months ago, we were both deeply inspired to share the integration of the Energy Cultivation of Qi-Gong traditions we’ve practiced for decades, with the naturally supportive qualities of Essential Oils — both of these ancient technologies have had a profound impact on our lives, and we know that these simple daily practices can improve the lives of millions of people, by restoring their vitality and youthful joy.

Since then, we’ve already taught Essential Energy Workshops from coast to coast:

Karen & Dennis - EssentialEnergyWorkshop - SAMMA 24Oct2015d
Essential Energy Workshop Seattle 24Oct2015

from Arcata, CA and Seattle, WA,

Karen & Dennis - EssentialEnergyWorkshop - Bangor 07Nov2015g
Essential Energy Workshop in Bangor, ME 07N0v2015

 

Essential Energy Workshop in Bangor, ME 07N0v2015
Essential Energy Workshop in Bangor, ME 07N0v2015

to full capacity in Bangor, ME, New York City and upstate New York —

Essential Energy Workshop in Bangor, ME 07N0v2015
Essential Energy Workshop in Bangor, ME 07N0v2015

— in each event, Karen and I have loved to see the inspiration catch like wildfire in the attendees!

Essential Energy Workshop in Bangor, ME 07N0v2015
Essential Energy Workshop in Bangor, ME 07N0v2015

 

Karen & Dennis - EssentialEnergyWorkshop - Upstate NY 14Nov2015b
Essential Energy Workshop inUpstate NY 14N0v2015

 

So, Karen and I are riding the wave and expanding our campaign, and teaching our next Essential Energy Workshop in Hayward, CA on Sunday, December 6th at the True Fight Club from 2pm-4pm — Space is Limited — you can enroll here!

Essential Energy Workshop Flyer 06Dec2015
Register here for the Essential Energy Workshop in Hayward, CA on 06Dec2015

 

For people that have attended an Essential Energy Workshop and want more tools to make it a daily practice, Karen and I will be teaching an Essential Energy 4-Week Online Course on each Monday in January, 2016, from 10am-11am (Pacific Time Zone) — enroll for the Online Course here!

We are planning more Essential Energy Workshops and programs, so let us know if you’d like us to teach in your area, share with others that would enjoy these classes, and stay tuned for upcoming events!

Intro to Bagua – the Root of my Energy & Martial Arts Practice

The culmination and pinnacle of my training and teaching in Martial Arts and Energy work over the last 33 years, is the holistic and esoteric art of Bagua Zhang (“8 Trigrams Palm”), The Circular Art of Transformation.

Are you looking for holistic exercise with real world self-defense?

Bagua Zhang training focuses on core-strength, balanced alignment and maintaining a calm mind while moving from one’s center with continuous circular motion for enhanced awareness. You will learn how to increase energy, become more grounded, increase intuition and connection with patients and your environment, and build self-confidence through the spiral movements and coiling power of Bagua Zhang.

Discover your inner-power and evolve with the ancient wisdom of Bagua Zhang  ~ the Art of the Vortex! For children and adults, beginners and experienced practitioners welcome!

 

Next month, I will be teaching 2 Intro to Bagua Workshops:

The first at the Dreamclinic in Seattle, WA on Saturday, December 12th, from 5pm-7pm,

Bagua Workshop at Dreamclinic 12Dec2015
Register here for the Bagua Workshop at Dreamclinic in Seattle, 12Dec2015

 

and the second at Dragon Arts in Omaha, NE on Sunday, December 20th, from 1pm-4pm.

Bagua Workshop at DragonArts 20Dec2015
Register here for the Bagua Workshop at Dragon Arts in Omaha, 20Dec2015

 

Bagua Workshop Attendees get $20 off their 1st Month of Membership at Mace Martial Arts!

 

Karen Atkins Mandala 05
Karen Atkins – Instructor, Owner of “Restore Your Soul”

About the Instructors:

Karen Atkins – AdvCBP, AdvCBI, LMT, Certified Wudang Qigong Instructor

Karen Atkins cultivates practices that help people take better care of themselves and find their optimal state of being on all levels. Through “Restore Your Soul”, an awareness based business, Karen supports lifestyle education and transformation through nourishment, Qi Gong, essential oils, BodyTalk, music, and other therapeutic methods. She has recently been featured on Ted Talks and Good Morning America.

 

 

Dennis Mace 29Sep2015
Dennis Mace – Instructor, Owner of Mace Martial Arts

 

* Dennis Mace – LMT, Yiliquan Kung Fu Black Belt, Formal Disciple of Yang Guotai
Shifu Dennis Mace has been training and teaching holistic Martial Arts and Qi-Gong since 1982. His thorough, hands on approach, emphasizing courtesy and ethics, and his commitment to cultivating each student’s authentic skills and improving their overall health and empowerment has contributed to his widespread popularity in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Restore your Essential Energy

Essential Energy Workshop Flyer 24Oct2015

Fulfilling a Dream

I’ve been dreaming of sharing this wisdom since I was introduced to energy building practices of Qi-Gong over 30 years ago.

Every day I hear people complain about “feeling old”, having low energy, low sex drive, weak immune systems and burdened with emotional overwhelm. I want to encourage all of them, and say “you know what? There’s another way. You don’t have to feel this way. You can reclaim your energy and feel vital again!”

Thank you to Karen Atkins of Restore Your Soul for helping to realize this dream and co-create this workshop that combines Energy Building and Essential Oils — 2 of the most powerful ways to start cultivating a culture of wellness.
Let’s take one step closer to living in a world filled with happy, healthy people!

I hope you can join us at one of these workshops — the first ones will be held in Seattle next week at Seattle Asian Medicine and Martial Arts, on Saturday, October 24th and Sunday, October 25th.

Our next workshop will be in Bangor, Maine on Saturday, November 7th – if you’re in the area you can register here.
We’ve also been asked to do one in New York City on Tuesday, November 10th — if you want to attend, please let us know, and we’ll email/message you the location and times.

We are getting requests for teaching the workshop in other cities, so if you’d like to host an event in your area, let us know!

 

What are “Mixed Martial Arts”?

Bagua Zhang Throwing technique
Bagua Zhang Throwing technique

What are “Mixed Martial Arts?”

From Mace Martial Arts — The Other MMA!

What we call “Mixed Martial Arts” today is mostly a sport-based amalgamation of Western Boxing, Muay Thai, and Brazialian jiu-jitsu, usually practiced in sporting events where fighters compete in a matted “cage” or ring. There are often other systems that influence the athletes in the sport, but these systems are the most common and popular. “Mixed Martial Arts” is the newest fad in martial arts training, and became popular in 1993 with the heavily promoted ‘Ultimate Fighting Championship.’

Actually, all traditional Martial Arts are “Mixed Martial Arts.”

Modern Muay Thai is a sport that comes from a root of older “Muay Boran” (traditional combat styles from Thailand), and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu comes from a simplified combination of Japanese Jujutsu systems and Judo.

Judo itself is a blend of several different Jujutsu systems compiled by Dr Jigoro Kano, simplified to be presented to the public at large in Japan, with a focus on self development at its core.


Taijiquan (Tai Chi) comes from 5 different martial arts systems, combined by a battle hardened Chinese General 500 years ago. Though it’s the most widely practiced martial art in the world, most people only learn the outer shell of it for exercise and meditation, without any understanding of the practical self-defense roots at the core of Taijiquan.


Choy Lay Fut is a well-known Chinese Street-fighting martial art combination of 3 different systems (that were also combinations of other family systems).

Wing Chun is widely popular Chinese Martial Art, with roots in various martial arts from the Shaolin Temple, made famous by it’s most legendary proponent, Bruce Lee. Bruce Lee is often credited as the “Father of Mixed Martial Arts”, as his philosophy “Jeet Kune Do” (“Way of the Intercepting Fist”) was to learn the basics of a system, then adapt, “use no way as way”, and express one’s self without the limitation of style. Though Bruce Lee was an inspiring visionary, the practice of mixing and adapting in martial arts has been with us since their inception several millennia ago.

The legendary Shaolin Temple and Wudang Temple are both important melting pots of hundreds of different systems in China. The Shaolin (“Young Forest”) temple is often credited as the birthplace of Chinese Martial Arts, but this is not so — the Chan (Zen) Buddhist Shaolin Temple was built in the 7th Century AD, and Chinese martial arts were already deeply systematized over 4,000 years before that (refer back to Sun Tzu’s “Art of War”).


Karate is commonly translated today as “Empty Hand”, however, it originally meant “China-Hand” in Okinawa, because it was comprised of multiple different systems imported from China. Later, in the early 20th Century, when Karate began to be taught in Japan, the Imperialists in Japan changed the characters’ meaning Kara (Chinese) to Kara (Empty), because of racist politics of the fascist regime at the time.

Tae Kwon Do & Tang Soo Do are both Korean derivatives of Shotokan (“Shoto’s House”) Karate, Shoto meaning the nickname for the Okinawan Instructor Gichin Funakoshi, who brought Okinawan Karate to Japan.


Silat are a collective of hundreds of very different martial arts styles from Malaysia, Burma, Indonesia, and the Phillipines, many of which are heavily influenced by Chinese styles of martial arts.

Dong Haichuan
Dong Haichuan (1797-1813)

The system taught here at Mace Martial Arts is Bagua Zhang (“8 Trigrams Palm”),

the origins of which is credited to Dong Haichuan (1797 – 1882), who was already an accomplished expert of several different Shaolin martial arts styles, before he purportedly traveled to live at a Taoist Monastery for a decade. It is there, where Dong Haichuan learned the the ancient Taoist circle walking practices (at least 4,000 years old) and secretive martial arts that formed the foundation of what he synthesized with his previous martial training and later started teaching in Beijing as “Zhuan Zhang” (“Turning Palms”), which was eventually termed “Bagua Zhang” (“8 Trigrams Palm”). Dong Haichuan is therefore acknowledged as the primary transmitter of the system, not the actual founder, as the original arts arts Bagua Zhang was based on were taught secretly for thousands of years before he was introduced to them.* 

Dong Haichuan selectively accepted many disciples, though purportedly only ones that were already experts of other martial arts. Dong Haichuan then took each students’ individual background training, and enhanced it with the dynamic circular principles of Bagua Zhang, resulting in myriads of different branches of the system. The differences between branches of Bagua Zhang is further widened, as each disciple was encouraged to find their own natural expression of the art, after they had built a solid foundation with the basics of Bagua Zhang.


* Regarding Bagua Zhang’s ancient history before Dong Haichaun, please read this fascinating article by Bruce Frantzis.

Thank you for being a part of this rich tradition here at Mace Martial Arts!

Introducing new Bagua Zhang Package Programs at Mace Martial Arts!

Now offering Package Programs — for students that want an immersive learning experience, with more support and resources to help guide you to your goals.
Bagua Zhang Package Programs Online

Uniforms for Vajra Visions – Mace Martial Arts

Uniforms not only help keep your street clothes from getting damaged in the rigors of training, they also instill a sense of focused determination during practice.

Wearing a training uniform builds camaraderie and belonging with classmates, which helps students set goals as they learn and grow together.

Student & Instructor Uniforms for Vajra Bagua Zhang consist of

  • Shirt with school logo ($30)
  • Black, loose fitting training pants ($25-$65)
  • colored sash denoting rank – and helpful in breath training ($7-$9)

 

Shirt

Please let me know what size and how many shirts you need for class, so I can order them for you. Price per shirt is $30.

Vajra Visions T-Shirt Design Front
Vajra Visions T-Shirt Design Front
Vajra Visions T-Shirt Design Back
Vajra Visions T-Shirt Design Back

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vajra Visions T-Shirt Design Ladies Front
Vajra Visions T-Shirt Design Ladies Front
Vajra Visions T-Shirt Design Ladies Back
Vajra Visions T-Shirt Design Ladies Back

 

 

 

 

 

 

Training Pants

For training pants, here are a couple options, you can choose and order for yourself:

Tiger Claw training pants
Tiger Claw training pants

Tiger Claw brand pants – 100% cotton with Elastic waistband and drawstring as well as elastic around the ankles ($25-$39 depending on size). Click here to order Tiger Claw pants via Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

VitalityDesignStudio training pants
VitalityDesignStudio training pants

Vitality Design Studio custom made pants – Adjustable hook and loop closure for precise fit, Roomy legs and gusseted crotch with pleated thigh for free movement, Elastic ankles, Reinforced stitching, Lightweight durable fabric or 100% Cotton ($60-$65 depending on fabric choice). Click here to order Vitality Design Studio training pants via Etsy.com

 

 

 

 

 

Sashes

Sashes will be given to students upon successfully completing testing events, and the testing fees will include sash and certificate costs.

Sash colors from VitalityDesignStudio
Sash colors from VitalityDesignStudio

List of ranks and sash colors for Mace Martial Arts students:

  • Novice – White Sash (element: Aether, Center)
  • Initiate – Green Sash (element: Earth)
  • Adept – Blue Sash (element: Water)
  • Junior – Red Sash (element: Fire)
  • Threshold – Yellow Sash (element: Wind)
  • Senior – Black Sash (element: Aether, Center)
White Sash by VitalityDesignStudio
White Sash

Regular adult sashes measure 4 inches wide, and 8.5 feet long (extra long and smaller child sizes also available, $7-$9). If your sash is lost or damaged, you can click here to order a new Sash from Vitality Design Studios via Etsy.com

 

 

 

 

Introducing New Bagua Zhang Package Programs at Mace Martial Arts!

Introducing 2 new Bagua Zhang Package Programs at Mace Martial Arts — 6 month and full year — for an immersive learning experience, with more support and resources to help guide you to your goals. Each of these 3 programs include group classes, private lessons, full uniforms (shirt, pants & sash), half-off workshops, testing fees and membership fees all at a package discount.

Bagua Zhang Package Programs online

The Most Versatile Weapon – Staff Workshop

Dennis M - Sam B Bagua Staff 15Jul15 9a

The staff is one of the most ancient and versatile weapons –

Learn practical techniques and strategies to improve strength, coordination, power, and how training with this weapon correlates with bare-handed self defense as well as being able to use walking sticks, gardening tools, brooms, mops and pool cues as effective self-defense weapons!

Dennis M - Sam B Bagua Staff 15Jul15 12a

We will be learning single and double ended staff techniques and strategies, as well as various sensitivity drills, strikes, locks and throwing methods using a staff to its fullest potential!

Dennis M - Sam B Bagua Staff 15Jul15 28a

 

Please bring your own staff to the event!

When: Sunday, August 16, 2015

12:30pm-2:30pm

Held at

Seattle Asian Medicine and Martial Arts 
12025 Lake City Way NE, Suite B
Seattle, Washington 98125

Dennis M - Sam B Bagua Staff 15Jul15 30a

Pre-registration $30
Day of event $40
Click Here to Register Online!

Update, July 25, 2015 –

How to Find Your Own Staff

You do need to bring your own staff to this event to train with, and to practice with after you attend the workshop. It’s best to buy the staff locally, in person, instead of ordering from a catalog or online, because you need to double check the following:

  1. The ideal length of the staff should be at least as long as coming up from the floor to your chin, or the top of your head when standing (usually between 5 to 6 feet long, longer is ok, but avoid getting something too short). Another test is if you hold the staff horizontally, balancing it at shoulder height along your outstretched arms, you should barely be able to touch the ends of the staff with your extended fingertips.
  2. The ideal diameter of the staff should be at least 1-1/8 inches to 2-1/4 inches — if it’s too thin, it will snap during training.
  3. The staff should be made of hardwood – it should pass “the thumbnail test” (you shouldn’t be able to dig your thumbnail into the wood). Pine and bamboo are unacceptable because they aren’t hardwood — Pine dowels won’t work, they will splinter and crack under the very lightest training. Suggested woods are Hickory, Maple, Oak, Waxwood, Ironwood, Treated Rattan, etc.
  4. One shop option is Seattle Martial Arts Supplies, located on King Street at the South end of Seattle’s Downtown International District. Another option is your local hardware store – Ace, Lowes or Home Depot, etc – go to the section with hardwood broom and shovel handles, and get a straight, un-tapered Hickory broom/mop/shovel handle — it will probably be cheaper and more durable than some of the maple and oak staffs in the martial arts shops (make sure it is at least 5 feet long and at least 1-1/8 diameter, and use the thumbnail test in #3 to make sure it isn’t Pine).
  5. Make sure the staff isn’t cracked or has splinters. Check to make sure there aren’t large “eyes” in the grain – it’s common for stress-fractures in the staff around these brittle areas when subjected to regular training – even with hardwood. Avoid staffs with fancy engraving along the shaft, as they lend to cracking and splinters during practice.
  6. Make sure the staff isn’t warped – look down the shaft from one end to check if it’s warped or bowed. Warping in the wood throws off the balance of the staff and makes it unwieldy.

If you have any  questions, please don’t hesitate to ask!

Featured

Do you want to study Bagua Zhang, but don’t have a teacher in your area?

Start or deepen your martial arts training with Bagua Zhang!
Start or deepen your martial arts training with Bagua Zhang!

Do you want to study a holistic martial art – Bagua Zhang, but don’t have a teacher in your area?

Here’s your chance to learn with a devoted instructor who cares about you, with live remote video classes!

Bagua Zhang Instructor Dennis Mace correcting a student's posture in "Zhi Tian Cha Di"
Bagua Zhang Instructor Dennis Mace correcting a student’s posture in “Zhi Tian Cha Di”

 

 

 

While it may not be as personal or effective as learning in person with an instructor, it’s the next best thing, thanks to developments in technology. Here are

5 reasons why Live Online Video Classes are one of the best ways to learn:

  1. Books are great insightful references, but the information may be difficult to decipher, and the author can’t respond to your questions. But with live online remote video classes, the teacher is right in front of you helping.
  2. Recorded videos are great for getting the idea of a skill, but you can’t get corrections or feedback from the instructor in a recording — but with live remote online video classes, you get immediate feedback and insight from your instructor.
  3. Online remote live video classes give you an opportunity to learn a style you want to learn – on a regular basis and from anywhere in the world – when the style or teacher you want to study from isn’t available where you live. Let’s face it — it’s unrealistic for most people to move just to follow a teacher or a system, based on family and work obligations, travel visas and financial feasibility.
  4. Remote Live online video classes allow you the convenience of training from home, on a regular basis, especially if you have moved away from your instructor and want to continue training with them. Giving you skills to work on in the meantime until you can travel to train with your instructor in person, or invite them to a workshop in your area for more personal training.
  5. Remote Live Online training gives you the chance to learn under an instructor’s watchful eye, and correct errors or misalignments that you might be oblivious to in your own solo training; an experienced instructor will notice subtle differences that could save you years of mistakes and potential injuries from incorrect training, and accelerate your learning curve, with much more depth to boot.
Teaching Bagua Zhang Strategies
Teaching Bagua Zhang Strategies

 

 

All you need to get started with remote online video classes is:

  • a high speed internet connection,
  • an account on Zoom.us ,
  • a space big enough to practice in front of your webcam, laptop, tablet or smart phone so I have visibility of what you’re doing,
  • a decent video camera and microphone that you can plug in to your computer (most laptops & tablets already have them built in!),

and you’re set!

Bagua Bridging Counter
Bagua Bridging Counter

 

 

Before we get started, here are

10 keys to enhance your online (or in person!) learning experience:

    1. Be real (authentic) and courteous with your self and your instructor: keep your training realistic, honest, safe, and fun. Respect and honor yourself, your instructor, and the generations of practitioners before you that poured their blood, sweat and tears into cultivating this wellspring of wisdom that you are now a part of. Appreciate what you’re learning, and celebrate your growth and accomplishments!
    2.  Stay focused during lessons, and solo practice: pay attention to how you feel, think about what you’re learning, and what the movements mean — it is a path of discovery!
    3.  Commit to practicing at home at least 30-60 minutes a day what you’re learning in class: you’ll be surprised how fast you improve. If you practice only during classes, then you’ll waste class time trying to remember, instead of learning and progressing – take initiative for your growth! Use class time to refine your skills and learn new information. Mastery is a path, not a destination.
    4.  Be mindful of how the art you’re learning relates to all aspects of your life: Consider you are practicing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — constantly learning and growing.
    5.  Stay humble: what you’re learning can make you healthy, as well as powerful — but that power doesn’t entitle you to manipulate, bully, or use others to try out new skills — that’s what the classroom is for! Like the saying goes: “with great power comes great responsibility.” Martial Arts is about nurturing one’s self, and protecting the sanctity of life. Remember, keep a beginners mind — because there is always potential to grow!
    6. Private Classes can include more than just yourself: a) invite up to 2 other people to join your private lesson, get feedback while training with each other, and split the tuition of $80 per hour. b) If you can get 3 or more people to join you during your private class, you can create your own weekly group class, at group class tuition – this is a win-win situation, because it’s cheaper for you and your classmates, more beneficial for your instructor, and you get more opportunities to learn and grow with classmates!
    7. Try to join Group Classes: if you are taking private lessons, try to join one of the regularly scheduled group classes remotely, so you can see others train and get more feedback and learning opportunities.
    8. Ask questions! Be thoughtful about your training, if there’s something you’re unsure about, don’t hesitate to ask — this is for your growth, and I’m here to help you!
    9. Take notes after your lessons! This helps you remember material covered during class so you can practice on your own outside of class. Get a notebook dedicated to your martial arts classes, so you have your own convenient reference as you progress.
    10. Invite a local school or several friends to join you and a) Sponsor your instructor for a workshop where you live, or b) schedule times when you can come train in person with your instructor to get the hands on training you need to progress!
Bagua Zhang Throwing technique
Bagua Zhang Throwing technique

So all that’s left is to sign up and schedule your classes – I’m looking forward to training with you soon!
Register for Private Classes Online

 

Introducing new Package Programs at Mace Martial Arts!

Now offering 2 package programs — 6 month Essential Package, and full year Journey to Mastery Package — for students that want an immersive learning experience and are ready to commit to lifestyle change and certification, with more support and resources to help guide you to your goals. Each of these programs include all regular group classes, private lessons, half-off workshops, testing fees and membership fees all at a package discount.

Bagua Zhang Package Programs online

Are you Ready to Change Your Life? Learn how any obstacle can be an opportunity

Are you ready to change your life?

Have you encountered problems in your life where you feel attacked, dominated or just overwhelmed?

We all have at some point – maybe your job, an irritating family member, financial burdens, a painful injury, severe weather, an obnoxious neighbor, a bad haircut, or who died in the last “Game of Thrones” episode – most of us are struggling with some tragic situation almost every day.

When I was growing up, one of my greatest struggles was with my father — a quiet, funny, tough, street-wise man — who was also domineering, alcoholic, sometimes cruel, demeaning and abusive. I learned to deal with it by isolating myself, being introverted, and becoming very sensitive to my Dad’s slow-burning, explosive temper — especially after he’d been drinking.
There were times I remember my little sister hiding behind me in a corner of my room, as I pushed through our terror to try and protect us from Dad’s rages after he’d been out drinking.

Instead of being bitter about it, I realize the experience fostered attributes I might not have otherwise: empathy, being protective of family, vowing never to become alcoholic, and a passion to express myself through art, and martial arts.
Despite the turmoil, my Dad encouraged my passion for artwork and martial arts. I’ll never forget when, at my High School graduation, with a tear in his eye and lump in his throat, my father told me how proud he was of me (since he’d dropped out), and how sorry he was for many of the things he did; he said he wanted to make sure I grew up to be a better man than he was. He passed away just 4 months later.

Even though it was rough growing up sometimes, I realize — especially after becoming a parent myself — my Mom and Dad were both doing the best they could, and I appreciate all the opportunities they gave me. I miss Dad more as time goes on, and wish I could have thanked him before he passed. I wouldn’t change my childhood at all, even if I could. It’s helped me grow to be who I am.


Dad and I, 1982.

Through the courtesy and rigor of martial arts practice, we learn to defend ourselves from physical attack — the first, most obvious threat to health and well-being. In the beginning, we learn a system of strategies, that teach us attacks targeting us are bridges to opportunity for survival, learning, and improvement.
As we progress in training, and integrate those strategies into our being, we realize that those physical techniques are metaphors for how the strategies can be applied to any aggression or obstacle in our daily lives, to improve self-expression and communication in how we relate with friends, coworkers, and family.
Even further, as we continue to train, we realize those same strategies are powerfully effective in overcoming personal barriers in our own spiritual growth.

Here at Vajra Visions, I share an innovative system that integrates
the principles of the Taoist martial art Bagua Zhang (“8 Trigrams Palm”, the art of transformation),
with the mystical Elements of Tantric Buddhism – a holistic system designed to cultivate each student on all levels.

Experience the Vortex — Discover your inner-power and evolve with the Ancient wisdom of Vajra Bagua Zhang (金剛八卦掌 “Thunderbolt 8 Trigrams Palm”), the Circular Art of Transformation!
Take the next step in your evolution – join our classes today!
www.MaceMartialArts.com

Training available in person and remote/private video classes online!

Instructor: Shifu Dennis Mace began Martial Arts in 1982, and now teaches in Seattle, WA
with thorough, hands on detail, emphasizing courtesy and ethics, and is committed to cultivating each student’s authentic skills and improving their overall health and empowerment. He is also available for workshops and seminars!

Introducing 3 new Bagua Zhang Package Programs at Mace Martial Arts!

Introducing 3 new Bagua Zhang Package Programs at Mace Martial Arts — quarterly, 6 month, and full year — for an immersive learning experience, with more support and resources to help guide you to your goals. Each of these 3 programs include group classes, private lessons, full uniforms (shirt, pants & sash), half-off workshops, testing fees and membership fees all at a package discount.

online

Learn Bagua Zhang from Home!

Moving Meditation - Bagua Zhang: The Circular Art of Transformation
Moving Meditation – Bagua Zhang: Art of the Vortex

 

Private Bagua Zhang Classes Worldwide Online

Have you been interested in taking Bagua Zhang Classes, but there’s no teacher in your area, or the class times do not fit your schedule?

I have a great solution: I am launching a new program to teach Bagua Zhang classes privately via remote video online!

All you need is:

  • a high speed internet connection,
  • an account on either Google Hangouts or Skype,
  • a space big enough to practice in front of your webcam, laptop, tablet or smart phone so I have visibility of what you’re doing

Schedule a time to begin your training now!

Introducing 3 new Bagua Zhang Package Programs at Mace Martial Arts!

Introducing 3 new Bagua Zhang Package Programs at Mace Martial Arts — quarterly, 6 month, and full year — for an immersive learning experience, with more support and resources to help guide you to your goals. Each of these 3 programs include group classes, private lessons, full uniforms (shirt, pants & sash), half-off workshops, testing fees and membership fees all at a package discount.

Bagua Zhang Package Programs online

Fresh Start for 2015

Welcoming the Year of the Ram with a fresh start and renewed purpose!
Welcoming the Year of the Ram with a fresh start and renewed purpose!

Fresh Start for the New Year!

 

“You have sole ownership of your vision. And the Universe will give you what you want within your vision. What happens with most people is that they muddy their vision with “reality”. Their vision becomes full of not only what they want but what everybody else thinks about what they want, too. Your work is to clarify and purify your vision so that the vibration that you are offering can then be answered.” – Esther Hicks
I am setting a new tone for the coming year, with more structure and opportunities in my Vajra Bagua Zhang Classes to maximize your growth on all levels: 
  • membership section of my website with a continually growing reference library of information available to my students (written articles and video)
  • simpler tuition schedule (payments due 1st of each month, prorated for new students, credit card options via PayPal, Square & Wave)
  • more organized, progressive curriculum
  • a ranking system to track and encourage student growth, with a quarterly testing schedule  
  • Quarterly Workshops with more specialized training
  • remote video/online options for both private and group classes
  • 6 Month and 1 Year Package Programs for students interested in mastery or passing on the system by teaching
  • Uniforms (starting with T-Shirts with Vajra Visions – MMA logo, later on with traditional custom uniforms) 
With new Vajra Bagua Zhang Class times — 
  • Saturday mornings 11am-12pm
  • Sunday mornings 11am-12pm
  • Tuesday evenings 6pm-7pm 
— comes refined tuition options, please let me know which day(s) you plan to attend as you enroll:
  • □ $50 – Private Class (call to schedule Taoist Yoga/Qi-Gong, or Martial Arts/Self-Defense) – per 1 hour session
  • □ $60 – Basic 4 Week Bagua Zhang Course (One – 1hr group class per week) Choose: Tues – Sat – Sun
  • □ $90 – Standard 4 Week Bagua Zhang Course (Two – 1hr group classes per week) Choose: Tues – Sat – Sun
  • □ $120 – Intensive 4 Week Bagua Zhang Course (Three – 1hr group classes per week)
Refer a friend or family member and get $10 off your tuition!

credit/debit payment option https://squareup.com/market/dennis-mace-lmt

Stay tuned for the updates as I roll them out – Happy New Year to you and your dear ones!

 

Sincerely,
Dennis Mace, LMT
Vajra Visions – Mace Martial Arts
The Other MMA ~ Look within to reveal and heal your True Self!
cell/text 206-440-9187

Let Freedom Ring!

Happy Independence Day!

We wish you a safe, liberating, joyful Summer, and we have some excellent workshops and classes coming up soon — and a special announcement about our rates — see below!

Let Freedom Ring!

Freedom.

As we come together this holiday weekend to celebrate the liberation of our nation, we want to extend to you our gratitude for entrusting us to help relieve your burdens in your pursuit of happiness.

Buddha once said that just as we can know the ocean because it always tastes of salt, we can recognize enlightenment because it always tastes of freedom.

Here in the Land of the Free, we often get caught up in the rat race, trapped by the work we do, overwhelmed by personal drama, or stuck in the clutter of our possessions. All of those clinging doubts, fears and obligations create tension in our minds and bodies. Actually, we have the power to choose joy over fear, and release our “shoulds”, “have to’s” and “cant’s”.

Massage Therapy is a powerful way to help release those burdens, and to free yourself in body, heart and mind. That release helps us to remember gratitude for all we have received, and find all the ways we can serve others.

So let Freedom Ring, throughout all aspects of your life, take care of yourself, and let us help relieve you of some of your burdens! Click here to schedule your next massage appointment online.

by Dennis Mace, LMP

Special Announcement – Rate Increase

Lock in current pricing by purchasing a gift certificate!

As of August 1st, pricing for massage will increase to the following prices:

  • 30 min $50
  • 45 min $67
  • 1 hour $84
  • 1 hour 15 min $100
  • 90 min $118
  • 120 min $168

We know that a price increase is difficult for our clients but it’s necessary at this time to cover the steadily increasing costs of doing business.
However, you can lock in the current pricing by purchasing gift certificates now! We thank you for your continuing support!

Thank you,
From everyone here at New Seattle Massage

Upcoming Workshops at New Seattle Massage

 

The Eclectic Bodyworker — Head, Neck and Face
with Pam Foster, LMP and Kate Bromley, LMP
Sunday, July 13, 2014, from 11:30am-8:30pm
Price: $150.00               8 hours of instruction, 8CE
Come learn new strokes and points, and review important muscles and fascia for head, neck and face.  Class is taught by Pam Foster and/or Kate Bromley to share the most effective, efficient techniques learned and utilized over a combined 45+ years of practice.  Explore the effects of stress on the body and discuss some of the most common conditions found in this area. (Minimum of 6 students needed for class to run)

Instructor Kate Bromley, LMP: Kate is a 24 year veteran massage therapist and educator.  She was employed for years as an instructor at Seattle Massage School and Ashmead College and is currently teaching at Denton Massage School in Arlington as well as teaching a variety of continuing education and personal growth classes.  She has previous experience working in a naturopathic clinic setting, chiropractic clinic and private practice and is currently seeing clients at Seattle Asian Medicine and Martial Arts, located in Lake City Way.
Her specialties are neuromuscular therapy, lymphatic drainage and Polarity therapy.  She is a Registered Polarity Educator.

Instructor Pam Foster, LMP: Pam has been a Licensed Massage Practitioner since 1990 and an instructor of massage, the Business of Massage and Ethics for the Massage Professional since 1997, initially with Seattle Massage School which eventually became Everest College. She currently teaches for Bluestone Academy in Ellensburg, Washington, with Seattle Reflexology and Massage Center in Seattle, and Denton Massage School in Arlington. Pam teaches continuing education hours of four or six hours in Ethics for the LMP.  Her practice is in the Eastlake district of Seattle, as well as a secondary location in Mountlake Terrace.  Although her focus is clinical treatment, she uses a fusion of techniques to treat the client’s needs.

TAO BASICS — A PRACTICE FOR LIVING

with Daniel Lee
Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20, 2014
Sat. (11am-5pm), Sun. (11:00-4:30pm)

Tao means “the Way,” not as a religion, but as an ancient Chinese philosophy and a way of life that is in harmony with nature.
In this workshop, you will learn practical ways to transform stress into vitality, calm the mind, and strengthen the body. We will practice Tao Yoga, Chi Kung,and Tao Meditation in a friendly environment.This workshop is for beginners or advanced practitioners who wish to deepen their practice. At the end of the workshop, you will have a simple practice to discover balance in your life, and find your own personal Tao or “Way.”

  1. Standing Dynamic (moving) Qigong: Ba Duan Jin (8 Sections of Brocade)
  2. Sitting Qigong (Tao Meditation): Inner Smile, 6 Healing Sounds, & Small Heavenly Circle (Microcosmic Orbit)
  3. Tao Yin Qigong (Tao Yoga); movements while sitting or lying down.

Price: $160 ($135 with Early Registration — before July 4, 2014)

Daniel Lee created the Being Balance System to integrate traditional Tao practice with our modern lives. He is a disciple of Sifu George Liew (Hong Kong Tai Chi Assoc., Cheng Tin Hung lineage), and a direct student of Taoist Master Mantak Chia, and the Country Coordinator for the Universal Healing Tao System in Austria. For more information, please see his website:www.beingbalance.com

The Eclectic Bodyworker — Shoulder Girdle to Fingertips
with Pam Foster, LMP and Kate Bromley, LMP
Sunday, August 17, 2014, from 11:30am-8:30pm
Price: $150.00               8 hours of instruction, 8CEWorkshop presents an eclectic approach to upper extremity work combining the most effective and efficient technique learned, taught and utilized over the instructors combined 45+ years of practice.  Explore the effects of stress on the body and discuss the most common conditions found in this area.
(Minimum of 6 students needed for class to run, Instructor bios above, on July 13th Workshop)

Interested in teaching a workshop at New Seattle Massage?
Check out our Class Space, and email dennismace@newseattlemassage

 

Published on: Jul 4, 2014

Can I get your feedback for Mace Martial Arts?

Please give your feedback to improve classes and materials — New Classes, Workshops and video material coming soon!

 

Tell us what you think!

We’d love to get your feedback

If you’ve had a chance to try my classes or workshops, thank you for your interest and commitment!

Your invaluable input would be immensely helpful as I develop more effective, meaningful lessons and materials.

This brief, anonymous 6 question survey should only take a few minutes to complete:
Mace Martial Arts Survey

If you’ve been considering taking my classes, I’m teaching an Introduction to Bagua Zhang Workshop tomorrow, Saturday, June 21st at New Seattle Massage, from 1pm – 4pm. Join in and give it a whirl!

If you would like to continue with regular training,
Join our New Bagua Zhang Classes!

  • Saturday mornings 10am-11am, at Seattle Asian Medicine and Martial Arts,
  • Tuesday evenings 6pm-7pm, at Seattle Asian Medicine and Martial Arts, and
  • Monday afternoons 12pm-1pm, at KeyArena at Seattle Center (outdoors, North Courtyard)

Please let me know if you have any questions — Talk to you soon!

Sincerely,
Dennis Mace, LMT
Vajra Visions – Mace Martial Arts & Massage Therapy
www.MaceMartialArts.com
The Other MMA ~ Look within to reveal and heal your True Self!

 

Published on: Jul 4, 2014

Why Martial Arts & Massage Therapy?

“Vision is the gift to see what others only dream”
“Vision is the gift to see what others only dream”

 

Why Martial Arts and Massage Therapy?

I hear this question a lot.

While it seems contradictory, the practices are actually complimentary – on several levels.

Martial and Healing Arts have been practiced in tandem in most cultures for several millenia. Though this tradition has been lost in the West, in most of Asia it’s stereotypical for the village martial arts instructor to also be the village doctor. As I was growing up, each of my martial arts instructors had a background in some form(s) of healthcare, from first aid and western medicine to Chinese medical theory & Tui-Na — and we learned those healing methods as part of the martial arts curriculum.

Why’s that?

Well, not only does first aid come in handy for training injuries, but other healing methods keep us in top shape to continue training on the path of personal refinement.
Also, a strong working knowledge of physiology and anatomy makes self-defense skills much more practical; alternately, learning self-defense also makes a healthcare practitioner aware of not only the frailty of life, but also it’s limitless potential to heal and grow. From an ethical perspective, martial arts teaches responsibility to help ourselves, and help others.

“With great power comes great responsibility…”

For me, massage therapy is a facet of my martial arts practice, the goal is to help others heal and find balance.
I view Healthcare and Martial Arts as flip sides of the same coin, and believe that martial arts is a Fourfold Path:

  • Warrior
  • Scholar
  • Sage
  • Healer

Becoming a professional healthcare provider has been a rewarding step in fulfilling this Fourfold Cycle. My martial arts background enhances my bodywork practice with refined sensitivity and intuition. I integrate Deep Tissue, myofacial release and energy work in each therapeutic session. My commitment is to provide each client their own individual treatment plan, and a uniquely fluid, integrated bodywork experience that is seamlessly restorative and relaxing.Schedule your appointment today, and enroll in my life-changing classes — I will help you return to your center, health and wellness!

P.S. Announcing new Bagua Zhang classes!

Saturday mornings 10am-11am, &
Tuesday evenings 6pm-7pm, at
Seattle Asian Medicine and Martial Artsand Monday afternoons 12pm-1pm at
Seattle Center, Key Arena (outdoors, North Courtyard)

Call or email to register for classes!

Published on: May 13, 2014

Ride the Horse – Happy Lunar New Year!

Lunar New Year of the Horse 2014

Riding the Horse to Health and Happiness!

In Chinese Astrology, 2014 is the year of the Green Wood Horse, leading us from the trepidation of the last Black Water Snake year, into a bold, new era.
According to this ancient wisdom, we are at the brink of startling new growth and exhilarating potential.So saddle up, and let’s ride the Horse to Health and Happiness!If you’re feeling blocked, stiff or sore, come in to get some relief, clear your body and mind with a soothing massage so you can get focused and back on track!

If you’d like to try something new to

  • get in better shape,
  • get more confident,
  • gain new skills and
  • discover your inner-power,

come try my Bagua Zhang class!

 

 

Starting Saturday mornings, later this month on February 21st, from 10am-11pm at
Seattle Asian Medicine and Martial Arts 
12025 Lake City Way NE Suite B
Seattle, Washington 98125
www.sam-ma.com

Looking forward to helping you again soon ~ Happy Lunar New Year to you and your dear ones!

Sincerely,
Dennis Mace, LMT
Look within to reveal and heal your True Self!
Vajra Visions – Mace Martial Arts & Massage Therapy
cell/text 206-440-9187

恭贺新禧, 萬事如意!

Gōnghè xīnxǐ, wànshì rúyì !
“Happy New Year, may all your wishes be fulfilled” !

Published on: Feb 1, 2014

Sleep Well & Happy Holidays!

Winter Dragon by Dreoilin - Ashley Stewart2013
Winter Dragon by Dreoilin – Ashley Stewart 2013

 

Season’s Greetings!

Tonight is the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, and you might feel a bit sleep deprived, with Holidays and the Year’s end upon us.

While the days are shorter and the nights are longer, do you find yourself wanting more sleep than usual? Maybe waking in the middle of the night and struggling to get back to sleep?

Rest assured, you probably don’t have a sleep disorder — I can certainly relate, and am looking forward to catching up on rest!

Sleep is necessary for us to “recharge our batteries” energetically, to “reset” and heal our body, mind and spirit. Good, restful sleep is deeply restorative in many ways:

  • keeps our mind sharp and alert
  • keeps our heart healthy with stress recovery
  • reduces weight gain by balancing metabolism and cortisol levels
  • keeps our nervous system functioning at the optimum level
  • increases vital energy — therefore boosts our immune system and pain threshold
  • boosts motivation and libido
  • improves mood and relationships

One of my Bagua Zhang instructors recommended waking up in the middle of the night to train and meditate because of the lack of distractions and optimal energy flux in our bodies’ natural cycles. There are ancient Taoist manuals that recommend practicing Qi-Gong around 2am because of this energetic circadian rhythm.

I remember when I was child waking up in the wee hours of the night and having profound moments of clarity and calm. I sometimes still do this, but because of our modern perception of what our sleep cycles “should be” (8 hour blocks), I wondered if I had a sleep disorder.

You might be surprised, as I was recently, to find out it was once common to have a bi-modal sleeping pattern, referred to as ‘first sleep‘ and ‘second sleep‘ before electric lighting in homes, where people would go to sleep around 8pm, wake up between 11pm and 1am to read or write for a couple hours before returning to sleep again… therefore the expression “burning the midnight oil.”

Apparently, bi-modal sleeping patterns are more natural, and our modern perception of sleep cycles are distorted and need some revision… This lends credence to the adage “early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise“…

Here’s a great article that challenges the myths of getting “a proper night’s sleep”:

How Our Ancestors Used to Sleep Twice a Night and Highlighting the Problem of Present Shock

By

Other research suggests sleeping more than 6 hours at once can be detrimental

  • to our muscles (due to inactivity),
  • to our use of nutrients (starving then stuffing your body), and
  • to our mind and perception (long periods of consciousness being separate from the body can lead to anxiety about physical reality, a sense of unnatural separation of the personality, causing a distorted view of the polarity of good vs. evil, etc).

A better solution could be sleeping in 4-6 hour blocks, and then taking a nap later on if necessary.

The truth is, we all have different individual needs that change season to season, and under different conditions. So, listen to your body’s needs, including following your own sleep patterns, and you’ll feel much better!

Wishing you and yours very Happy Holidays and a refreshingly restorative Winter!

Sincerely,
Dennis Mace
Look within to reveal and heal your True Self!
Vajra Visions – Mace Martial Arts
cell/text 206-440-9187

P.S.: The impressive dreamlike vision is called “Winter Dragon“, by talented artist Ashley Stewart, enjoy!

First Published on: Dec 21, 2013,
Edited on: Dec 20, 2016

Fresh Start! 2013

Relax and Recharge at

New Seattle Massage!

 

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Come in to check out my new space and get a great massage at New Seattle Massage in Seattle’s University District!

Starting this month I will be consolidating my practice from Bothell and Seattle to one central location, with more availability for your schedule at New Seattle Massage.

To enhance your healing experience, this tranquil and beautiful environment offers

  • warm spacious massage rooms with heat lamps and soothing music,
  • a sauna,
  • a steam room,
  • a spacious class room and
  • showers for after your massage session!

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To schedule an appointment with me at New Seattle Massage,
call (206) 632-5074.

New Seattle Massage
4519 1/2 University Way NE
Seattle, WA 98105

Validated Parking available for the nearby lot on Brooklyn Ave NE between NE 47th Street and NE 45th Street.

I’ll be looking forward to helping you again soon!

Sincerely,
Dennis Mace, LMT
Look within to reveal and heal your True Self!
Vajra Visions – Mace Martial Arts & Massage Therapy
cell/text 206-440-9187

P.S.: If you have a massage package or gift certificate that hasn’t been completed or redeemed yet, please schedule with me at either my Wallingford or Bothell office before they expire at the end of October ~ you can forward the credit to a friend or family member as well ~ email or call me if you have any questions!

 

Published on: Oct 2, 2013

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Relax & Recharge: Massage Therapy & Epsom Salt

The Wondrous Benefits of Massage Therapy & Epsom Salt

 

Wonder why I recommend an Epsom Salt bath after massage therapy? Well, let me break it down for you!

During your massage therapy sessions, I release metabolic waste from your muscles. Drinking extra water helps flush some toxins, but you might be sore for a couple days after the massage. Just add 2 cups of Epsom Salt to your warm bathwater, to enhance the toxin-flush by increasing perspiration and draw wastes (like uric acid) through your skin.Caution: stand up slowly after the bath, and drink plenty of water, as Epsom Salt will dehydrate and could make you feel more light-headed than a regular hot bath. Seek the advice of your physician before you take an Epsom Salt bath if you have high blood pressure, diabetes or a heart or kidney condition, or before you start any new treatment plan.
What is Epsom Salt? Magnesium Sulfate is a natural mineral, named after the town of Epsom, England, where the salt was produced from a saline spring. Used as a natural remedy for numerous ailments for hundreds of years, Magnesium plays an important role in several bodily functions:

  • helps produce serotonin, which improves sleep and creates feelings of calm and relaxation,
  • increases energy & stamina by encouraging production of ATP (cellular energy), and
  • reduces irritability by lowering adrenaline effects.

Epsom Salt is therefore a natural stress reliever: stress drains the body of magnesium — when Magnesium Sulfate dissolves in warm water it is absorbed through the skin, replenishing your body’s magnesium. The salt draws toxins from the body, sedates the nervous system, relieves inflammation & joint pain, making it beneficial in treatment of

  • sore muscles,
  • bruises, abrasions and cuts,
  • sprain/strain injuries,
  • bronchial asthma, and
  • migraines.
Furthermore, soaking in an Epsom Salt bath
  • improves neuromuscular function by regulating electrolytes that govern muscular & nervous systems,
  • therefore relieves muscle cramps;
  • removes odor and softens skin,
  • relieves colds and congestion,
  • reduces soreness from childbirth,
  • prevents heart disease and strokes by lowering blood pressure, preventing hardening of arteries and blood clots to reduce risk of heart attacks,
  • as well as increase insulin effectiveness, helping to lower the risk or severity of diabetes.

So treat yourself ~ you’ll be happy you did!

Sincerely,
Dennis Mace, LMP
Look within to reveal and heal your true self!
Vajra Visions – Mace Martial Arts & Massage Therapy
Tel (206) 440-9187

P.S.: Back to School Special! If you register for a Vitality Package this week,

you get a $50 September Discount!

I’ve designed this Neck & Shoulders Vitality Package to help you reach your optimum health, for Stress RELIEF and Injury RECOVERY, so you can enjoy your work, play without care, and live your life without limitation!

Each Vitality Package includes:

  1. Three 90 minute Massage Sessions,
  2. a personalized treatment plan to achieve your health goals,
  3. a 15 minute Consultation where I will share customized exercises & stretches that compliment the bodywork,
  4. Aromatherapy Epsom Salts from O’Malley & Potter, and
  5. Relaxing Stretch Video so you can progress faster at home in just minutes a day

You can expect:

  • Reduced Stress Levels
  • Increased Range of Motion
  • Faster recovery from injury or chronic pain (without drugs)
  • better sleep
  • increased efficiency and performance at work (and play!)
  • Reduce the frequency/intensity/duration of headaches
  • Increase Vitality with more efficient muscle function (less energy wasted on tense muscles)
  • Increased Immune System Function

Click HERE to register now and get on the path to health and vitality!

Published on: Sep 8, 2013

A Secret to Pain Relief and More Energy – Part 3

Qi Gong - Energy/Breath Cultivation
Qi Gong – Energy/Breath Cultivation

In my previous article, I introduced two crucial deep breathing methods to reduce pain and increase your energy. Now, I’ll be taking you to the next level, to help you eliminate pain, get grounded, more connected and discover your inner-power!

“Inner-Power“, you ask?

Yep!

In Chinese, it’s called Qi (pronounced “chee“), and means “breath” and “energy”, interchangeably. Have you seen the Star Wars movies? “The Force” is the same ancient concept of connection and Vitality.

Using the Reverse Breathing method I shared in my previous article is a key to tap your inner-power, combining focus and imagination in this transformative healing aspect of Qi-Gong (“Breath/Energy Cultivation“), called “Microcosmic Orbit“.

Microcosmic Orbit

This practice connects the 2 main center-line Acupuncture Meridians*
in your body in a continuous loop.

These meridians flow naturally — as long as we’re alive. By practicing Microcosmic Orbit, you consciously open and “charge” this circuit for increased healing energy, circulation and awareness.

The key elements to practicing Microcosmic Orbit are:

  • As you start, focus on your body’s center of gravity, in the Lower Abdomen at your body’s core, for at least 4 full breaths. This grounds & centers you.
  • press the tip of your tongue up, as if through the roof of the mouth (like switch, or circuit breaker between the 2 Meridians),
  • imagine your body is standing like a tree. Extend feeling through your feet deep into the Earth, like the roots of a great tree. Extend your head upward (as described in the first article “A Simple Secret to Pain Relief“), like the branches and leaves of a tall, powerful oak.
  • As you inhale, grip the ground with your toes and heel, arch the bottom of your feet to create a pumping/suction feeling, and imagine drawing your breath & energy up through your feet, as if through a straw, up your legs, through your spine, to the crown of your head — like a tree drawing sap, rich in nutrients up from the roots through the whole tree.
  • As you exhale, press your feet flat into the ground and allow your breath and energy to sink with your weight, as if it were sunlight and fresh rain, washing through and nourishing the limbs, trunk and roots of your body, from head to feet.
  • when you conclude,  focus again on your body’s center of gravity, in the Lower Abdomen at your body’s core, for at least 4 full breaths. This grounds & centers you, allowing your energy to safely, naturally “digest” throughout your body.

Practice this cycle for several breaths for the full effect. You may feel warmth, tingling, magnetic pressure, a rush of awareness, as well as physical healing and emotional clearing. You can practice while sitting, standing, and eventually even while walking!

Practicing Microcosmic Orbit will help correct your posture, boost and ground your energy, while helping you feel more open and connected at the same time!

If you liked this article, and want more, I’m creating

  • free weekly articles (with video)
  • with practical tips & ancient techniques for vitality and getting grounded & centered
  • occasional bloopers
  • and special offers & discounts!

So get connected and sign up here!

Best wishes, see you soon!

Sincerely,
Dennis Mace, LMP
Look within to reveal and heal your true self!
Vajra Visions – Mace Martial Arts & Massage Therapy
Tel (206) 440-9187

P.S.: For hands on training in Qi-Gong and much more, come check out my classes, my first 8 week session of Moving Mediation – Bagua: The Circular Art of Transformation starting in 2 weeks!

In these classes, you will learn how to

  • increase energy,
  • become more rooted/grounded,
  • increase intuition and connection,
  • and build self-confidence

through the spiral power of Bagua Zhang.

Classes are once a week, in progressive 8 week sessions, starting in Seattle on Tuesday August 20th or Saturday, August 24th, and in Bothell on Thursday, August 22nd.
Register for the 8 week session now!

* the 2 main center-line Acupuncture Meridians in your body are:

  • Governing Vessel rises through the spine  to the top of the head, then descends to the roof of the mouth,
  • Conception Vessel descends from the tongue through the throat, down the chest and abdomen to the perineum.

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Published on: Aug 4, 2013

Pain Relief and More Energy – Part 2

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 In my last post, I shared one of the most effective secrets to correct posture and reduce pain — deep breathing.

What results have you noticed from using the posture & deep breathing methods in my previous article?

To enhance the health benefits, here are 2 deep breathing methods that will help you feel more centered, grounded, and energized!

The key to both methods is to imagine drawing your breath deep into your belly, to your body’s center of gravity (below your navel 1-2 inches, at your body’s core).

Abdominal Breathing

Abdominal breathing is the relaxed breathing we naturally use when sleeping. This form of breathing soothes tension and anxiety, clears the mind and calms emotions.
In abdominal breathing, your abdomen naturally expands when you inhale, and contracts as you exhale.

Reverse Breathing

Reverse breathing is the breathing we naturally use when exerting to lift, pull or press something heavy. Referred to as “prenatal breathing” by Taoist Masters, as it is the “breath” used by infants still in the womb. For thousands of years, Qi-Gong (“breath/energy-work”) Masters have regarded this breathing method as a secret to vitality and longevity.
In Reverse Breathing, your abdomen contracts as you inhale, then your abdomen compresses and your lower back (around your kidneys) expands as you exhale. This creates a subtle, yet powerful internal pump that stimulates the endocrine system and energy flow throughout your body.

So, if you are feeling anxious or stressed, practice Abdominal Breathing to calm your mind and soothe tension, and to help wind down at the end of your day.

If you are feeling exhausted or scattered, practice Reverse Breathing to revive and get focused, or to start your day when you wake up — who needs coffee, right? 😉

Dao Yin – Chinese Taoist Yoga & Qi-Gong
More details on Reverse Breathing coming in my next article!

 

 

Stay tuned for my next article ~

I will share more to clarify and enhance the efficacy of the Reverse Breathing method…

If you liked this article, and want more, I’m creating

  • free weekly articles (with video)
  • with practical tips and ancient techniques for vitality and getting grounded & centered
  • with occasional bloopers
  • and special offers & discounts!

So get connected and sign up here!

 

P.S.: If you’d like to learn more about these powerful healing methods hands on, come check out my classes ~  Announcing my first 8 week session of Moving Mediation – Bagua: The Circular Art of Transformation!
In these classes, you will learn how to

  • increase energy,
  • become more rooted/grounded,
  • increase intuition and connection,
  • and build self-confidence

through the spiral movements and coiling power of Bagua Zhang.

Classes are once a week, in 8 week sessions, starting in Seattle on Tuesday August 20th or Saturday, August 24th, and in Bothell on Thursday, August 22nd.
Register for the 8 week session now!

 

Published on: Jul 21, 2013

 

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A Simple Secret to Free Pain Relief

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 Do you know a major cause of headaches, neck and back ache, and even numbness in the hands and feet?

I see it every day: poor posture.

The good news: one of the best solutions to correct posture is free!

If used correctly, this secret could save you hundreds — even thousands — of dollars in medical care…

The secret is actually deep breathing.

Try to take as deep a breath as you can with your back hunched, shoulders rotated inward and your head hanging forward… Does your breathing feel restricted?

Similarly, remember a time when you were injured or stressed out? Just thinking about it probably makes your breath shallow. Deep breathing not only helps correct your posture, it also reduces stress and pain.

Click here to watch the video:

 

The keys to effective deep breathing are:

  • Lift your head as if it’s being hoisted up from the crown, and
  • push your head up, as if pushing your head through a tight turtle-neck shirt,
  • draw your chin in (not tilted back),
  • keep your hips slightly forward & tailbone tucked under, so the spine is “telescoping” straight (stretching from the top and bottom) without any hunching or swayback.

This will make your spine feel as if it is suspended, with all your bones stacked in alignment, and your entire body will feel lighter, almost weightless.

Dao Yin – Chinese Taoist Yoga & Qi-Gong
Extend spine upward and downward, and draw breath to your lower abdomen.

How long is a deep breath?

It’s relative. The idea is to gradually increase the depth and duration of your breath with practice. The best way, is to count your heartbeats — this allows you to listen to your body and get in touch instead of forcing it.

Start with 5 to 10 heartbeats per inhale, and just as long an exhale, at least 5 full breaths.
Practice everyday when you feel tense, in the morning when you wake up, and at night before you sleep. After a week, increase the depth of your breath by a few more heartbeats, to a point when you feel a stretch, but not so deep that you feel forced or more tense.


Gradual growth is the key ~ you’ll be amazed with the results!

If you liked this article and want to receive more, I’m creating something new for you:

  • free weekly articles (with video)
  • with practical tips & ancient techniques for getting grounded & connected
  • and occasional out-takes

Oh, and this will be the only way to find out about my discounts & special offers, so sign up here!

 

 

Published on: Jul 4, 2013

 

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