2 | Seungja Kim
01/07/2010 at 8:44 am

I’ve been instructor for 10 years.
I respect Ilchi Lee from bottom of my heart.
Because he guided me to know purpose of my life, how to live which even my parents couldn’t guide.
I think that is very natural to highly respect someone who gave me spiritual new life.
He shows me hope, light.
I will keep following his guide to make Health, Peace, Happiness for the humanity.

4 | James
01/07/2010 at 9:47 am

CNN must correct the story about Ilchi Lee and Dahn Yoga. Reporters should interview with fair amount of time for both sides. It is only one sided story. They should investigate who is really immotal. CNN tried to be as sensational as they can. I also had feel cultural descrimination. It is not about cult it is about culture.

6 | JungAe Kim
01/07/2010 at 10:57 am

I agree with you.

8 | Joy Kim
01/07/2010 at 12:03 pm

Wow, your sharing is so beautiful, and you tell our story so clearly. I sincerely hope that the rest of the world will hear your — our — story.

10 | Ba Ha
01/07/2010 at 12:48 pm

Thank you for the wonderful sharing which speak out from my heart.

12 | harmony (joy) venegas
01/07/2010 at 1:14 pm

Dear Mr. Mark Nelson:

I am writing this note to you in anticipation of the airing of tomorrow’s show on the Cult and Dahn Yoga. As I understand it there will be three evening airings and three morning airings which will allow the public to have full knowledge of what I am anticipating is a one sided piece of news since I have not heard of anyone receiving equal amount of time coming from Dahn Yoga I realize that you have received memos from many Instructors, Practitioners and Members, please add my name to the list and I would like to trust CNNews to be the respected, intelligent reporter of news with good information.

I have been studying Dahn Yoga for over 8 years. This March will mark 9 years. I am an Instructor who maintains a household, family of two sons and an outside position in the Technology and Financial Institutions. I have spent many years living the life of a housewife, parent, VP of Operations and friend and now an Instructor of Dahn Yoga. Of all these positions that I have carried in my life, today is the best I could want. I am an example that this integration works.

What has changed in my life is that I have gone from a person with extreme high blood pressure and having stints placed in one of my arteries outside my heart (15 years ago) to a person who needs no medication, can climb to the top of Bear Mountain, have a blood pressure on the average of 130 over 80 …. sometimes 125 over 78. I am 68 years old and my children honor my changes in life by enjoying being with me.

In my life I have vacationed at least twice a year for at least 20 years. Getting my tan, my poolside relaxation and good food that help create my high cholesterol, is what I did. I would come from my time off and have some memories and usually spent anywhere from $2500.00 to $5000.00 per trip twice a year. It was my good life, t was a decision in my life to spend my money that way. I make new decisions today to train instead of vacation, to become more flexible instead of pains and aches, to understand that I am at peace with myself and what I see as my future. I walk with many of my pers in life who still use the thinking I guided my life by and I recognize the unsettling feeling of getting old, of not being wanted by their children and of not having hope. If there is no challenge to one’s brain then change doesn’t happen and if change doesn’t happen than I become stagnant and hope is much less in my life.

I am not sure of CNNews’ purpose to wrongful and harmful reporting but if it is indicative of the kind of underhanded investigating that has been seen by some of our Dahn Instructors and Members then I wonder what purpose you are truly serving. As a human being who has lived their life respecting the investigator who reported the news, I see a change to that type of honor. It is strange that in the entire Dahn environment not one person has had the opportunity or the equal amount of time to talk of their experience. I ask that you listen to the voice of the people that you serve to bring good information after fitting all the pieces to the puzzle.

Thank you for the opportunity to express my voice.
Sincerely,
Joy Venegas

14 | JungAe Kim
01/07/2010 at 2:30 pm

inspiring story. go go.

16 | HYOJIN KIM
01/07/2010 at 3:40 pm

Thank you for sharing your heart and I agree with you especially about CNN newscast.

18 | Ann Mooney
01/07/2010 at 4:54 pm

I wrote this several years ago. Now I am a full-time Dahn Instructor and very happy and grateful for the opportunity to share what I have learned. A lot has happened since then. The CNN story reminded me why I joined Dahn and how much benefit I have gotten. It really ticks me off that people who need help might avoid Dahn because of this ‘story’. I could go on and on, but I’ll just post my old letter instead.

Learning to use the principles taught in Dahn Yoga changed my life. At 31 I was diagnosed with stage 2 Breast Cancer. 1999 was not a good year; surgeries, chemo, radiation, and tram-flap breast reconstruction. Then 5 years of hormone replacement therapy. The conventional treatment approach. Chemo permanently fried the lining of my bladder…another pill. Side effects from all the other medications and treatments passed. So with my snazzy new short hairdo, I went back to work, determined not to live my life in fear.
Then re-occurance. Stage 4 now. I shut down and went totally numb. More radiation and chemical hysterectomy *#@!?# great!! Cancer back under control. I was not. Something had to change. As opposed to freaking out completely, I decided to take a more proactive role in my healthcare. My doctors (who are all fantastic) were extremely supportive. Dahn Yoga classes seemed like an easy way to start.
It was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. And I thank God for that. Through simple stretching and exercise, breath work, meditation, diet and dance…I experienced positive and profound changes. I reconnected with my body’s natural healing power. These practices described in “Human Technology” have been around for thousands of years. Everyone has the innate power to heal themselves.
That’s my personal experience. Besides being the slimmest I’ve ever been, I no longer need medication for my bladder condition.
Move your body and focus inside…it’s that simple. It’s another tool in the fight against cancer. Any health problem for that matter. We all (patients, caregivers, health care professionals, family and friends) need all the help we can get.
It’s my sincere wish that you can experience the benefits Dahn Yoga like I have. If nothing else, I hope you are motivated to become as proactive in your own health as humanly possible.

20 | JL Harper
01/07/2010 at 7:43 pm

I remember when I first strolled into the dahn yoga center. I was just wondering around, with no clear path or point to my life. On that first day I found where I had been searching for. I used to suffer from high stress and depress, was on the verge of having a heart attack. But through the training and support that I have recieved from everyone in this organization, I have completely changed my outlook on life, and live more positively, without the chest pains-without depression. I have hope. The education and training that is found at dahn yoga is something that I believe in because I have experienced it. This is something that I am working on sharing with everyone I can, to create harmony within ourselves and in our world. Peace.

Jessica – Santa fe/NM

22 | Marielle
01/07/2010 at 8:27 pm

Letter to CNN:

My name is Marielle Christofi. I am an Instructor at the Arlington Dahn Yoga Center. This is my second letter to you. I am writing again because I have just watched the first of a series regarding the lawsuit filed against Dahn Yoga.
As you may or may not know many of the plaintiffs are from Boston and I knew some of them personally and/or worked with them as a fellow employee.

I just want to make some things clear about what was said on the show tonight. Liza talked about doing 3,000 bows and how people were moaning and screaming on the floor and that no food or water was allowed. Well, my experience was quite different. I have done 3,000 bows, 2 times in my life. Once in 2008 and once in 2009. Both times I had a choice and I chose to do it. I have been an athlete my whole life and have competed on the collegiate level. I am well aware of what it feels like to push my body to great lengths without any food or water. And I have to say that doing 3,000 was one of the most invigorating things I have ever done. Actually my instructor at the time encouraged me to take breaks and drink water as I needed it. And I did! I drank water and even ate some fruit. My body felt so healthy afterwards and my mind felt so clear. I do bowing exercise on a regular basis (not 3,000 though) and it really helps me to manage stress. Also I have found that physically my back (I have scoliosis) has become straighter and stronger. I have had back pain my whole life through always playing soccer and running track very competitively. I even underwent knee surgery my senior year of college. Through bowing I really can feel the tension in my body is turning into strength. I am very grateful for this because I had feared I would be in pain the rest of my life in my joints and spine.

I would also like to share that I worked with Liza Miller while she was in Boston. I actually did bowing exercise with her before. To be honest it seemed like she really enjoyed it. At that time she was the one who recommended it to me. In fact, I even knew her sister, mother and father. I would often help her mother with some cleaning around the house and other odd jobs during my time off. One thing she wanted me to do was help her set up a room so she could do her morning bowing meditation. She was thankful for my help and that was it. (It is a very simple thing that seems like they are blowing out of proportion).

Bowing in dahn yoga can be similiar to something like a sun salutation. It is good for your body and if you are interested then it can help to calm your mind to. This type of thing can really help people. We have no interest in torturing people what so ever. If I had interest in torturing people I would not work for a Yoga studio. And if people feel tortured when they do bowing exercise then they should stop without any hesitation.

Also I would like to share another piece of information with you regarding Liza Miller and her credibility while she worked for the Dahn Center. There were times where I witnessed her smoking marijuana and heard her speak about how she was smoking marijuana nearly every night. At this time she was in charge of running one of the Dahn Centers. Smoking marijuana causes your body to become very weak and it also makes your brain very foggy and can even create paranoia. I am sure this is something that would make any training she did seem a lot more physically and mentally demanding than it really was.

As instructors we are constantly in contact with our fellow employees about our physical condition since it is so crucial to the work we do. If we are not healthy then how can we help others be healthy to? I had the same manager as Liza during her time here and I know that this specific manager was always checking with me about how I am feeling. If I ever felt sick or needed to take a rest it was not a problem at all. And I know she was the same way with Liza.

Actually, as I think about this more Liza even had a boyfriend who would visit her and take her out while she was managing the Dahn Center. She went to concerts with her family and attended her class reunion. I know this because at the time I also was friends with her mother (who was also a dahn member). Her lifestyle seemed like the furthest thing possible from torture. She managed her own yoga center, drove her own car, had a boyfriend and visited her family often.

Through my sharing I hope you can understand more about why myself and so many others are shocked by the lies being reported in this story.
So Please CNN, please share both sides and let the public see for themselves. I understand that you are a large corporation and you want to do what sells. I understand that the word cult sells. But let’s be real for a minute here…do you honestly think that Dahn Yoga is a cult? I know that it is not. I know about 20 of the people listed on the lawsuit. I can share many things about how their credibility is lacking. If you would like to know more then I am happy to share it.

Thank you very much for taking the time to read my side. I hope you will use it well.

Marielle Christofi
Assistant Manager
Arlington Dahn Center

24 | Marina Kachko
01/07/2010 at 9:05 pm

My letter to CNN:

To: Janelle Rodriguez
Executive Producer of the Campbell Brown Show

Dear Janelle, I hope you have enough power and influence in decision making process at the show you represent as Executive Producer.

I felt deeply hurt today by the ad CNN run with the “shocking news” about Dahn Yoga.

My name is Marina Kachko and I am a former employee of Dahn Yoga. Currently I operate my own Yoga Center in Chatsworth, California and I extend my invitation to any CNN representative to contact me at any time.

The “shocking news” CNN was exposing today is no more than a gold digging advertisement. I am aware of the situation about the legal claim and the court outcome same as I am aware of the company’s practices and operations management. What is not clear to me is how did it happened that such trustworthy and well-known broadcasting station fall for a “cheap sensationalism” putting it’s dignity and integrity on the scale.

I do know the figures behind the claim and was able to witness how their greed for recognition and hunger to outshine the company itself hurt many people who trusted their word. I didn’t know the CNN with its sharp eye will be on the list as well.

The person you claim to be a “cult leader” helped me to find trust in my ability to become a successful business owner, besides of full recovery of my knee function, which I lost after 2 medical surgeries and countless health benefits. Practicing Dahn Yoga helped me to awaken my body and being able to utilize it on the peak of my performance now, when I am 35.

You might say, so what is so special about my profession, but let me ask you how many people, do you think are really satisfied with their job? How many Americans are looking forward to come to work in the morning? In my experience there are just few. I am telling you this as a practitioner who meets about 100 visitors every month for last five years. It’s a big number after all. And do you know, how many of them are not satisfied with their marriage, with their children performance, their health condition, salary, traffic on the freeway, just name it, it’s easy to find a reason for dissatisfaction if you search for it.

So here I am, grateful to see them every day, I smile to each person who comes through my door, because I know they can feel better. As they leave my studio and come back to their “real world” the problems doesn’t seem so big anymore, because I remind them how to breathe, it is that simple. Would I have courage to do it after living in pain for seven years, during my medical history of knee surgeries? I didn’t think so, but witnessing the dedication of one person over 30 years of his life, which included the recovery after accident as well, was definitely uplifting. Seeing the report you have prepared for general public about Ilchi Lee is unfair. Not unfair to me, because I know how much effort he puts daily into the betterment of human life, it is unfair to you, to the company you represent, to your employees and to the viewers.

What is in the big news that CNN are trying to explode tonight? News that the practice many people find beneficial is “brainwashing” and the positive changes they were able to achieve is fake, the wisdom of books Ilchi Lee wrote, is a lie? The people who represent Dahn Yoga are just mindless cult followers? Then what’s the truth, Ms. Rodriguez? The people who are trying to sue the company for their own mistakes, driven by their own greed? Did you know that the plaintiffs misrepresented Dahn Yoga to the community; did you know that they were caught stealing? Who does CNN represent in this case, in this game of public opinion?

How irresponsible that report might be? Follow the lies of a few to hurt thousands. I hope CNN is worth much higher than that. The ability of the company to expand and grow into a leader on the market of news, must say of the employee’s strong principles and beliefs. I am addressing this letter to you, Ms. Rodriguez, the Executive Producer with hope that CNN won’t lose its truth in this chase after another sensation, but gain the trust of many fans around the world with the truthful reporting and insight.

If I would be a reporter I would investigate why so many people find trust in Dahn Yoga, I will inspire people who have lost hope. I will find an answer why so many people choose to tech Dahn Yoga, very bright and intelligent people, by the way. I myself come from the family of educators; my father was a University Professor, who taught me honesty and sincerity. I also hold a college degree, but found it useless many years ago after 9-11, when I saw our world caught up in chaos of hurt we bring to each other. My decision to teach Dahn Yoga is based on hope I have for humanity and the power of choises we make every day. I ask you to please investigate with sincere responsibility what you are trying to destroy in your reporting.

26 | Kim Root
01/07/2010 at 9:13 pm

My name is Kim Root. I am a Dahn Yoga Instructor and I have been running and managing my own independent franchise of Dahn Yoga for the past 7 years. It has been the most rewarding time in my life. I have gained a tremendous amount for myself through the practice and have been able to share that benefit with thousands of others.

Prior to my involvement with Dahn Yoga I was always tired. I needed about 9 hours of sleep at night and still usually felt tired. Within 1 month of starting classes as a member I felt so energized that I started looking for things to keep productive after work and early in the morning. At the time I had been working as an office manager for a small construction company. I was comfortable with my income and happy with my friends and relationships at work. But I wanted to peruse my dream of having my own healing center.

Dahn Yoga with it’s extensive array of masterful programs and caring atmosphere gave me that opportunity. Since I have been running my own center, I have continued to be supported by the community of instructors. I also receive ample amounts of training for me to share with my students. In addition I have not lost contact with my friends or family as some may have you believe. I am over 50 years old, but I don’t feel it. And my students don’t believe it when I tell them. I am flexible and I am stong.

It’s been brought to my attention that CNN has been given ample access to the correct information about Dahn Yoga and Ilchi Lee. However, although some of that information is mentioned in the “Justice” program being aired over the last few days, the general slant is acusation.

Dahn Yogas founder Ilchi Lee has developed countless trainings training methods that have helped millions of people to regain health and happiness in their lives. He has written many books and is the president of a university. Over the past 30 years he has accomplished more, through his own tireless hard work, to help others than any other person I have known. He deserves respect not attack.

28 | Stephanie Jasieniecki
01/07/2010 at 9:54 pm

When I first came to the Dahn Yoga center, I was searching for meaning in my life and had let my physical condition slip away from me. I did not at all expect to find what I was searching for at a yoga center.

Soon, my body condition completely changed, within just a few weeks. I became healthier and more balanced, naturally changed my eating habits, and could manage my energy better. My pent-up emotions began to release and I felt lighter and more happy, like the self I always remembered and had lost.

When I met Ilchi Lee for the first time, I felt something special about him, even though at the time I had no clue who the man was. He spoke of his vision of healing the Earth and Humanity. I knew that is exactly what I wanted to do, what I always dreamed of, without a clear or practical method to do that.

My family relationships began to improve and become smoother, especially after my Shim Sung training. My family noted the changes in me then, and still do now.

I continue to grow within this organization. It is my joy and my life. Even when I am having a hard time personally, I know that I will come out of it a better person, with a clear lesson, as long as I keep in mind the principles that Ilchi Lee has presented to me and the world about being a beneficial human being in this world.

I am so satisified with my life as a Dahn Yoga instructor. I think all the members at my center will attest to that too : )

Thank you!

30 | Donna
01/07/2010 at 11:13 pm

I would like to share my own story of how Dahn Yoga empowered my life, so that you have a balanced view as opposed to the unbalanced portrayal CNN has done about a great company and practice that has helped thousands of people recover their health, including mine. I also have a huge family and friends all over the USA and belong to professional networks, local Chamber of Commerce, and am active in the community. I have family and friends who watch CNN, and I myself watch too, so I want them to hear our voice.

Here is my story. In August 2004, I began to suffer from recurrent severe gastric pains and idiopathic chronic hives with swelling. This health event was a big wake up call for me. My pains would keep me awake at night. I needed medications on a daily basis for my pains and hives. At that time, I was just promoted to senior management level research position at UT M.D. Anderson Cancer Center too, and trying to complete my Master of Public Health. Finally I was getting frustrated with some of my work as a health researcher, long hours, stress in my shoulders, and that we were caring more for our patients than for each other as fellow coworkers and mentors. I was involved in Wellness groups at the hospital and also taught meditation noon time classes in my Department of Cancer So, I saw the Dahn Yoga flyer at my doctors, and went in for an intro session in Spring 2005. My life has changed for the better! I have been teaching at Dahn Yoga, and doing community health outreach since 2006, and it gives me the greatest joy to hear the students say “Thank you. Thank you so much. You have helped me so much.” I have seen countless miracles and success stories in students across the world.

Needless to say, I have lost 2 dress sizes, feel great and energetic, my abdominal pains and hives have gone completely after 6 months of Dahn Yoga practice, my skin is glowing and smoother, I finished my masters, and most important, I have gained the confidence to handle any situation I encounter, and my family is happy that I am more at peace and patient and healing them now . My parents practiced at Dahn Yoga too, my sisters have taken classes and workshops, and even my Grandmother is doing the practice at her home and it is helping her health and wellbeing.

Truly, Dahn Yoga and all our wonderful trainings, helped me to find real mind, body, spirit balance. The joy that it brings me to see my students improve their health and lives is immeasurable. Health is not just physically healthy, but a happy heart, and peaceful spirit, and I have dedicated my life to helping others attain just that, and it is working!

Donna

32 | Dima Cheong
01/07/2010 at 11:42 pm

Great. Yes, It is true. We can make happy school. Let’s make it happen through your sincere passion and brain education. You are the hope messenger.

34 | Jeff
01/08/2010 at 7:19 am

I am a Dahn instructor and have been practicing Dahn for about three years. Through Dahn, I have found hope and meaning in my life.

Before I started practicing, on the surface I appeared to be a very successful person — I went to Stanford and Harvard Universities, excelled at many kinds of study and work, and had travelled a lot. I wasn’t happy, though. Actually, I could never find happiness because I couldn’t find real meaning in my life. I could never figure out what I should be doing with my time, doing with my life, because I couldn’t find the ultimately meaning in any of it.

I suffered a lot from depression, and saw a therapist for a stretch of 3 years or so in college and after I graduated. It helped me immensely, but I never could find real confidence and joy inside myself….

I ended up coming across Dahn when I moved to Boston for grad school. Since then, I’ve wondered….did I end up in Boston because of grad school or was I meant to come to have a chance to find Dahn. There is no question about which–grad school or my experiences at Dahn–gave me a more valuable education. By the time I graduated two years later, I had decided to become an instructor and sharing the healing and enlightenment that I had received through Dahn with others.

The changes I have experienced through Dahn have been huge. I resolved a chronic digestive problem that specialists couldn’t even diagnose. I have become much more confident and emotionally stable. I can let go of things that don’t matter. I no longer feel depressed…at all. I really love my life and love what I am doing.

All of this came because I found what does matter through Dahn. I awakened a deeper part of me that just genuinely and purely wants to share love with everyone. From that place, I feel so much and clear purpose. I no longer doubt my purpose, so I no longer have to doubt myself.

I am so grateful for this practice and for Ilchi Lee, its creator. I feel I owe so much to him, as well as to all the instructors I’ve had who have so patiently and lovingly cared for my growth as a person. Ilchi Lee has brought something of rare beauty into this world. I hope I can help many, many people can awaken to that beauty. That is what will bring meaning to my life.

36 | Hyeran Ihm
01/08/2010 at 11:49 am

I have been Dahn Yoga instructor over 6 years now. Before then, I was a member for over 4 years before I became an instructor.

From the begining to now to this point, there was a great change in me. When I started as a member, I was a scientist, did not believe in anything unless it was proved by myself or by “reliable scientific methods.” I still remember arguing with my instructor about what I was feeling between my hands as I was moving my hands with focus was just a muscle response or more than that. Even with many doubts as a scientist, I kept taking classes and workshops since I felt benefits from them. Physically, I became stronger and healthier. When I started, I could not do even 5 times of Knee-down push ups. Now I can do even 3 finger push ups. (I did not need to improve my flexibility much. I was pretty flexible but became even more flexible. ^^) When I started, I would catch a cold all winter long. Now I hardly catches cold. Many people was sick this winter, but not me. Mentally and emotionally, I also became a better person. More self-confidence, more caring mind, bigger sense of love and compassion are just a few examples that I can think now. Spiritually, the practice opened me up to a different level. I feel I became closer to god, who is love.

As I experienced many changes and benefits, I started to reconsider the course of my life. I had a promising job and comfortable future. I enjoyed my job very much. I enjoyed being in the lab from early morning till late evening, even during the weekends, because it was fascinating and is still fascinating to me that we can do experiments and explain how the nature works. Yet, I found that it was not enough. I enjoyed my work a lot, but it was more for my intellectual satisfaction. I wanted to find bigger satisfaction, more contribution to others. I started to notice that how dedicated and sincere my instructors were. I started to notice people’s changes with their helps. I started to think about chaning my career. It was not easy. It took quite a courage. However, I kept the words in my minds that I told my friend when I was in college, “If I found something better in my life, I would not stay in doing the things that I was doing just because I have been so.” It took some time, but eventually I followed my own words. I made a change in my career. It was a shock to my family and friends. It took a while but slowly they are understanding my decision.

Now, I am happy and glad to be a Dahn yoga instructor. It is not an easy work, but it is a very rewarding work. I work long hours but it’s by my choice. Everyday is a chance for me to observe positive changes in people and me. Everyday is a growing experience to me. Every people and every event provides me a chance to grow. Although I am not perfect yet, I know I am improving. And, I thank to everyone who has been guiding me and helping me on this path from my first instructor to Ilchi Lee and from my family to all the members I have met.

Kam sa hap ni da. (Thank you in Korean)

38 | Ji Kim
01/08/2010 at 1:44 pm

I have been practice dahn yoga 10years, and I have been dahn yoga instructor over 6 years now. Through this training I experience deep healing of my body and mind and emotion. So I choose to become dahn instructor.
I had stomach problem, acid reflux all the time over 10 years. Now that is healed, through dahn yoga. And I became much more happy,healthy person.
I have so much joy and pride with my work.

And I think everybody needs to experience this training so that they can have more owership of their life and healing power within.

40 | Alex Horns
01/08/2010 at 1:52 pm

thank you so much for your sharing.

42 | shine
01/08/2010 at 2:07 pm

thank you Lee

44 | Afrika
01/08/2010 at 3:11 pm

For at least 5years before meeting dahn yoga I would write down in my journal the profession that I wanted, yet it didn’t seem to have a title. I did many things and each was the stepping stone to dahn yoga.

I would write I want a job that consists of teaching yoga, healing, guiding, and travel. I want to share my heart in a big way, universe please send it to me.

With the help of a dear friend I was introduced to this “energy form of yoga”. The 1st time I stepped into the dahn center I immediately felt “good energy” and I had the feeling of coming home after being away for so long.

I thoroughly enjoyed the class, and asked the instructor how I could teach there. I knew that the universe had responded to my repetitive and disciplined asking.

I became much more open, confident, and began to strengthen my inner power. I think that “strengthen inner power” has been the most beneficial for me, and it is also what is lacking in many human beings, and most of all many women.

Which goes to show that as a society we need to strengthen our will. If women are able to strengthen their sense of “self-love” and
“self-worth” they’d be able to use that energy to empower themselves, not look for negative ways to be accepted.

I am saddened by this ordeal, and it makes me realize that it’s even more important that we teach Brain Education in the school system.

I as an instructor at dahn yoga for 2 years had the privilege of teaching Brain Education for kids at the center.

After the 1st class I received calls from parents telling me that their child with “tarret syndrome” is no longer “violently throwing his head back due to brain wave vibration”. Thank you so much. That their very shy child who barely speaks at all, couldn’t stop talking after the class. Thank you so much. That a little boy who would wake up in the middle of the night to go to his parents bed, finally slept in his own bed. Thank you so much.

These children developed security, self-confidence/esteem, and understanding about their mind and body.

Brain Education is a great recipe for “teaching and parenting”.

Children need to start feeling love, appreciation, respect, for themselves 1st, then they can spread that pure energy into the world. They are our future. We are seeing 1st hand, what happens when we neglect, and disengage ourselves from our children. Let’s create a brighter future, and keep moving forward.

Sending Love & Peace,

Afrika Pendleton
Dahn Instructor

46 | Michelle Gavin
01/08/2010 at 5:01 pm

Facing ourselves IS really tough work and taking responsibility for choices is even harder. Thanks for keeping it real, joan!

48 | JungAe
01/08/2010 at 5:53 pm

Great story. Thanks.

50 | Genia Sullivan
01/08/2010 at 6:47 pm

My story with Dahn Yoga started in 1999. I had been a swimmer in college, and had since stopped working out. I went to the Dahn Center to get back into shape.
In September of 2000, I applied to Boston College Graduate School of Social Work. It was not an easy decision. I had a great job working with teens doing experiential education through the YMCA, however it wasn’t the career I wanted and I was searching for what that might be.
I was looking for something into which I could put all my efforts and have hope about changing the world. I researched many places and things ( and I mean many!). I interviewed people who had careers in which I was interested. I went to introductory days offered by various graduate programs. I took a Psychology class at Harvard. I even spent a week in ‘Vet Camp for adults’ at Tufts to make sure my childhood dream of being a vet wasn’t really the vocation for me (it wasn’t!). Finally, finding nothing that clicked, I applied for Social Work on the grounds that it was practical and flexible degree option.
Boston College has a great program, and there was one particular class that really stimulated me. I remember getting particularly excited about one project in that class that dealt with rearranging the public transit system to give more access to those without jobs or high economic status. After pouring energy into the project, I felt let down. I felt that no policy or program, even the most amazing and transformative, could solve the problem unless we (meaning people in general) want to solve the problems of the earth.
I was also working part-time at a live-in treatment center for women with Eating Disorders at the time, and experienced similar realizations there. ‘I could do this job my whole life, and there will always be another woman to come fill the seat in front of me’. It was a depressing thought. I was always bothered by the fundamental fact that as a society, we did not seem to have any plan to heal people at their root, just address their problems when they got out of control or to the point at which they were detrimental to themselves, others, or society.
I had not imagined myself as a healer, or learning about energy as we teach here at Dahn Yoga, but over a period of 3 years I started seeing that what I was experiencing at my studio was giving me more hope than what I was learning in graduate school. I was watching myself, and others, change, open up, and connect. I remember reading the book ‘Healing Society’ by Il Chi Lee and thinking, ‘You know, this could work’. So, after I graduated from Boston College, I started training as a healer at the Dahn Yoga Center and went through the Master-in-Training course in 2003.
Choosing this was not easy. Being a healer, since it was not traditional vocation, didn’t offer much societal recognition, but it encompassed everything I was looking for. I could have easily passed it by, but I didn’t. I marched to the beat of a different drum because I what I believed in, and remain proud of myself for choosing it.

I remember thinking sometime in the middle the first year of running a center by myself (in 2005), ‘Wow, this is so amazing!” I was running a business as a successful manager, by myself, and was helping people grow, develop, and heal themselves and developing myself at the same time. Although I had a lot of success and confidence in my life, I never dreamt I could have accomplished such a feat. But I did it well, and now, as a 35 year old, know that my confidence, power, and freedom are limitless. I am looking forward to continuing to develop myself, healing others, and working towards my life-long goal of changing the world for the better. I have no plans to retire; because this is not quite work for me, even though it brings a paycheck. I will keep doing this work, in some form or another, for as long as it brings hope to me and others.

52 | Erin Gruber
01/08/2010 at 10:28 pm

I have been doing Dahn Yoga for about two years now, one year as a member and one year as an instructor, and it has changed my life for the better, immensely. Before I started Dahn Yoga, I was depressed and had a lot of anxiety. I was unsatisfied by my life and I tried many things to overcome my situation, but nothing worked for the long-term.

When I found Dahn Yoga, I found something that works—in the long term. There are no quick fixes here, however, much to the dismay of many people, especially in America’s fast food culture. As I began to take the practice more seriously, I began to see that this is not a sport or hobby, but to benefit fully from it, it becomes a lifestyle.

Part of this practice is the cultivation of dedication and devotion—especially to one’s self, body, mind and spirit. There are many exercises that founder Ilchi Lee has developed in order to aid students of Dahn Yoga in their quest for personal growth and devotion. One very helpful tactic is bowing meditation. Bowing meditation is not forced upon any members or instructors, it is simply a method that is taught and members are guided by instructors as to how many at a time would be beneficial for them and why. Some people choose to do it just once in a while, while others, especially instructors, use it as part of their daily fitness and meditation practice. It’s a useful and simple method that people can use to keep muscles and joints healthy as well as to calm the mind and connect with one’s inner-self.

Also, it should be noted that Ilchi Lee did not invent bowing meditation. It is prominent in many Eastern spiritual traditions and in NONE of those traditions is it thought of as torture. Granted, spending time alone with one’s self and having the physical and mental discipline to see a long set of bows through to the end is not always EASY, but the point is to overcome this and thus gain the fortitude and centeredness to overcome other difficult matters in life. It’s a strengthening exercise for mind and body.

In short, the true purpose of this letter is to succinctly share my heart when it comes to Ilchi Lee. He is devoting his life to the betterment of humanity—the proof of this is in his actions, if the media would care to take a deeper look they would quickly uncover these facts. He is trying to establish a new CULTURE, which is based on the Hong Ik In Gan philosophy of Korea. Hong Ik In Gan roughly translates as a human being who lives life in order to benefit others and the Earth. This is a real philosophy that was upheld (and still is to a minor degree) by the people of Korea a few thousand years ago. He is trying to modernize it for this era. He’s making a CULTURE not a cult, please understand the difference! There is a need for a change, especially in American society. The fact that the ideas are coming from outside of America does not mean that they deserve to be immediately dismissed and vilified. Can’t we open our minds to recognize this planet as a global village and give his version of peace a chance?

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
Erin Gruber, Las Vegas

P.S. Thank you to all of the members who are speaking out—you are so beautiful. WE CAN DO IT!!!!!!!!

54 | Jaclyn Magelssen
01/08/2010 at 10:52 pm

When I first joined Dahn Yoga as a member I was suffering from post traumatic stess syndrome and didn’t even know it. It was really ironic considering that I was a registered nurse and knew the signs and symptoms well. You see I had been an RN for about four and one half years. The last year of that was post hurricane Katrina. This hurricane changed the face of the Gulf Coast. Not only physically but also emotionally and psychologically. It is difficult to describe the atmosphere after a major disaster. Needless to say I was well on my way to either an ulcer or a nervous breackdown but had no feeling connection to give me the warning signs.
When I first started as a nurse I was always told that I was too emotionally attached to my patients. I could cry at the drop of a hat. Especially when patients received bad news from doctors. But slowly I noticed that I wasn’t expressing my emotions as much. Over the years I thought that the way I was feeling was healthy. Everyone felt this way. It wasn’t until a year after Katrina that I started to see how much I was wrong. I had been taking care of a patient for several days. She had not been doing so well but seemed to be improving. Until she was told that the reason that she felt so sick was that she had terminal cancer and that there was nothing medically that they could do anymore. There I was standing by the bedside while this patient’s life had been turned upside down and I felt absolutely nothing. Nothing at all. It shocked me. When did I lose that compassion? Where did I go?
I went home and stayed up all day and into the night. As a night nurse that was actually not that difficult. Considering that I had not been able to sleep well anymore. It was during that all day vigil that I realized that something had to change. Sure I could keep working. I made great money and could afford anything I wanted. But what was the point if I could not even feel like I was alive? I ended up resigning from that position and going to Dallas to take an extended vacation with friends. I really wanted to figure out how I could get me back. I had gotten lost somewhere along the way but there had to be a way to come back on track.
It was at this time that I joined Dahn Yoga. It only took a short period of time before I could truly feel how amazing this practice was. For the first time in years I could feel alive inside. It was like opening the windows of a house that had been closed and abandoned for years. The greatest gift for me was not so much inside the class but outside. I felt like I was living life. Truly enjoying every moment. From meeting friends to watching the sun rise.
Not only that but the philosophy and goals of Dahn Yoga and founder Ilchi Lee were more in alignment with what I originally started as a nurse with. The idea that a person could heal themselves. As a nurse you get to know well that sometimes all medicine does is address the symptoms. Even when doctors have no idea the reason for the patient’s pain they will just give a band-aid for the symptoms. The dedication and research that went into Brain Education and B.E.S.T was inspiring and helped me to see how I could take action for myself to create the life I wanted.
For me it was natural to decide to become an Instructor. Because I could see from the other instructors that the best way to change myself is to be in a profession that focused on helping others to change. I could fully see also that it was an ongoing process. There is no magical transformation once you take the Master in training course. As much as I want to change that is as much effort that I need to put in to make it happen. All Instructors are like that. Now as an instructor I can look back at the person that I was at the beginning and wonder how I survived. How did I go every day feeling like a zombie and holding in all the stress and pressureof the day. Now I can fully take responsibility for my actions and know that if my life is not satisfactory it is because I am creating it to be like that. I thank every day that I found Dahn Yoga.

56 | Nate Guadagni
01/09/2010 at 1:21 am

Thank you Jeff nim- you are an inspiration!

58 | Tonya Whelan
01/09/2010 at 9:47 am

I came to a Dahn Yoga in March of 2002, I’d heard from a friend that yoga was a great exercise and as a former gymnast I wanted to get back into shape physically and also release stress. I’d recently quit my job of five years because I was extremely dissatisfied and was taking on temp work until I figured out what I wanted to do. I noticed the center near my Alma Matter after returning from a 6 week road trip to think about what I wanted to do with my life.

I had looked into literally every career imaginable, but nothing seemed very fulfilling to me. I considered joining Greenpeace or something similar where an organization is trying to make a difference in the world, but on a larger scale I wanted to do more.

I was volunteering at my old elementary school for over a year, and my teacher wanted to recommend me for a program where I could become certified to teach (my degree is not in education). As rewarding as working with kids is, I felt her frustration in teaching these kids with all the bureaucracy she had to deal with on a daily basis limiting her amazing abilities as an educator.

I wanted to make a difference in the world, in people’s lives, and there just wasn’t any profession out there that appealed to me. I use to tell people that if I knew what I wanted to be doing with my life, I’d be doing it, and I didn’t want to get 30 years into a career and near the end of it wonder if I’d even made as much of a difference in people’s lives as I could have.

After two months of taking classes at Dahn Yoga, I knew very strongly that I wanted to teach. I wanted to help people, and see the positive changes in their lives, and I have. From minor to major changes, I’ve helped more people in the 6 years that I’ve worked for this company than I ever thought I’d be able, and knowing that has changed my life.

I can see now how to make a difference in this world. And I’m doing it.

60 | Stephanie
01/09/2010 at 10:48 am

About My Journey…
Upon entering college at Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ, I was a good student with an above average GPA and a successful athlete. College became much more than academic studies for me. I began really wondering about what I would do with my life. After many mistakes and many majors, I studied fine arts. I found a full-time position as a photographer’s assistant, even before I had finished college. I learned the ins and outs of the business, for which my employer was paid up to $6,000 per job. After a year of studying with her, I began putting out my own contracts too, and I was well on my way to a very successful career and easy life, as far as finances are concerned. However, this made me question the meaning of my life further. I felt that this couldn’t be all – a good job, a good boyfriend, etc. About this time was when I met Dahn Yoga.
After about a month of Dahn Yoga practice, I attended a three day workshop in Arizona called YEHA, which is an acronym for Young Earth Human Alliance. It is a group of young people across the globe who desire a better self and a better world. Through this training I recovered my heart. Relationships that I had struggled with finally started to smooth out, I felt happier and more fulfilled.
Later when I learned I could become a Dahn Yoga instructor, I knew that it would be the most satisfying job for me and something I could keep doing for a lifetime. It has been over five years since I started as an instructor. The thing that moved me the most to become an instructor is the goal of Dahn Yoga, which is to create a better world through the betterment of human beings. To me this career is a life-time promise to myself that I will continue to improve myself for the betterment of the world. I continue to chose this work because of the environment created for me as an instructor. Everyone in this organization always tries their best to be kind and loving, and to create the ideal kind of world that we all want to create on this Earth, while encouraging each other to overcome our limitations. My goal is to open and manage my own Dahn Yoga center abroad. I am making preparations for that now. I still have a long way to go in the study of my life, but I am such a happy and grateful person now.

62 | JungAe
01/09/2010 at 2:32 pm

Today, I taught one of workshops it’s called Initial Awakening.
They came with lots of health issue and this workshop gave them priciples and HOPE.
You can find out what they experience through Initial Awakeing.
click “your voice”

64 | Joy Kim
01/09/2010 at 4:14 pm

I was raised by my extremely neat and clean mother, so I had always taken cleanliness and organization for granted. Once I left home for college, I became the “mom” amongst all my roommates, although I was the youngest of all my friends, because I was always the one cleaning up after everybody.

Once I graduated college and began my career in our wonderful Corporate America, I started becoming very very stressed, and I was becoming quickly disillusioned about all the glory of having an admirable career. I started becoming really unhappy, and interestingly enough, my apartment started to reflect this state of my mind. I stopped cleaning. I used to never even be able to conceive of the idea of leaving any clothes on the floor, but one day i came home from work to find the floor of my apartment completely covered with the clothes I had shed off for what I would estimate to be a few weeks. I literally had to hop over them onto small open spots, as if I were hopping on stepping stones. And I thought to myself, hmm maybe I should clean. But then I also thought, what’s the point of cleaning? It’s just gonna get messy again. I know where everything is exactly, so what’s the point of tidying up and cleaning? It was a very interesting moment for me.

Working at the Dahn Center, we do a lot of cleaning. When I started working at the center, I began recovering my enjoyment for cleaning and appreciation for clean, neat spaces. Then one day, Ilchi Lee gave a lecture and he said, “When your mind becomes dark, the first thing you’ll notice is that you’ve stopped cleaning.” I had learned through firsthand experience, that cleanliness, or lack thereof, is a reflection of the state of your mind, and through cleaning, you can clean away a lot of undesirable things from your mind, like anger, frustration, stress, sadness, etc….

This is one of the many things that we do that we take for granted because we have been taught them to do well since childhood, just as “good common sense,” that I have learned the true meaning of through my training in Dahn Yoga.

66 | Donnie Aguinaldo
01/09/2010 at 4:58 pm

I have been teaching Dahn Yoga for about 6 years now and I cant tell you enough how fulfilling it is to see different people everyday and knowing that you can make them feel better that day because myself.

The Dahn Yoga program has been an important part of my daily regime during the times when I was a member since it had helped me with my depression and my joint problems. It’s a very fun environment to train and relax my body and mind.. That’s why I decided to become a Dahn Yoga instructor seeing despite of the hard work my instructors poured to each individual member and to the center they are filled with so much fulfillment after seeing their members change and become a better person. I wanted to have that joy too even I am fully aware of the responsibilities and work that lies ahead before I became an instructor.

As an individual, I am insulted by the poor reporting CNN News made about Dahn Yoga. Basing information on a “Sensationalism” style of journalism instead of facts attained by fair and proper methods of research and reporting. I didn’t even see one information that is based on facts instead its all based on just the allegations, and through yword play and their editing skills they have distorted our image.

I also would like to mention that Mr. Ilchi Lee clearly does not have any connection about managing to his “national chain of centers”. I say this because I respect his work and achievements and NOT a “money-making” businessman. He has stepped out of his position managing the Dahn Yoga centers for as long as I could remember. From all the times I had the pleasure being with him. I can clearly see how much he cares for the earth and I don’t understand why people would ruin that from him. I didn’t like how the media portrayed him as just a businessman. He built a university, a Museum for Korean History, a park for all people to visit for free to know more about mother earth. Everything that was earned by these institutions are given back to non-profit organizations even to the United Nations. That’s why we respect Ilchi Lee so much because he really contributed to his country and to the humanity and these false accusations are not going to stop him to keep contributing. Please see all his efforts though this link: https://dahnyogavoice.com/records-materials/who-is-ilchi-lee/.

See the facts yourself through Dahnyogavoice.com

68 | Hong Young Kim
01/09/2010 at 7:35 pm

Great! I was told a lot of people shared the benefits they received thru Dahn Yoga. I hope every one will be able to have opportunity. Thank you for your sharing.

70 | Ann Livits, CA
01/09/2010 at 7:49 pm

I agree that CNN didn’t show what Dahn Yoga is about. They didn’t show positive and beneficial sides.
8 years ago I heard about miracles of Korean Yoga from the lady who successfully survived lymphoma. Almost 4 years ago I discovered that Korean Yoga is Dahn Yoga and enjoyed the training from the first class. The quality of my life is improved tremendously.. After I become a healer, I constantly use my skills to help my family. I ‘m so happy that I can bring many smiles, kindness, friendship and sincerity to people around.. Thanks to my instructors who always help me with my grow.

Ann Livits,
Fullerton, CA

72 | Ann Livits, CA
01/09/2010 at 8:02 pm

Dear Marina, love your integrity and sincerity and totally agree with you

74 | Yujung Lim
01/09/2010 at 10:48 pm

Thank you for your sharing. No wonder how you could keep big smile all the time. I wish your more joyful life with Dahn!!

76 | David Driscoll
01/09/2010 at 11:53 pm

I’ve been a Dahn Yoga instructor for 4 years.
I’m proud that I’ve been here that long. In the past, I was the kind of person who could hardly stand to be in one place for more than a couple hours 🙂 At the time I first joined the Dahn Center I was working 5 or 6 part time jobs just so I didn’t have to focus on one thing for too long. Distracted would be one way to describe my former self.

I am so grateful for the opportunities that I’ve had in Dahn Yoga. I’m grateful in the way that makes you really sure of yourself, no matter what may come, because you know what you’ve got is the best. I used to worry “what if I’m missing something important?? What if I should be doing something else?” Now I don’t have those worries because I know, even when it’s difficult and nothing seems to be going right, I know it’s absolutely worth it.

Why do I feel this way? Because I am a student of the power of choice…
I’m studying how to choose what I truly want and how to make it happen once I choose it.

A couple examples of the kind of things I’ve chosen as a Dahn Yoga instructor:
choosing to be confident in front of a group
choosing to speak for my highest idealistic hope rather than simple pragmatism
choosing to sing in front of people
choosing to cry openly
choosing to express more love for my family
choosing to fight for the things I believe in

These are all things that I didn’t naturally feel confident in choosing, but I wanted. I believe I’ve been aided in choosing them as a direct result of my training, watching my mind and building confidence through my body, as a Dahn instructor.

Choice = Freedom 🙂

78 | youn
01/10/2010 at 8:29 am

Hello.

I am a Dahn yoga instrutor, I am working dahn yoga for 11 years now.

Almost same time beging of dahn yoga in USA.

I am so happy. becouse I’m dahn yoga famiry an all of thing….no metter what, It is best one….

I love all of you…..

80 | Aaron
01/10/2010 at 1:32 pm

We miss you Jeff! Thank you for all you do! Keep up the great work! Beautiful Sharing!! Your story is full of inspiration

82 | Aaron
01/10/2010 at 1:40 pm

Hi Marielle,

Excellent sharing! Dahn Yoga has changed my life as well. Thank you for all you do. It’s inspiring to witness your sincere heart and dedication to your center.

84 | Becky
01/10/2010 at 2:32 pm

A very sincere, honest testimonial, with good points about the biased report.

86 | Kevin Twomey
01/11/2010 at 12:01 am

My name is Kevin Twomey, I was born and raised in Hawaii. I have held a strong interest in Healing Arts since I was a little kid. I was given guidance by my stepmother since I was 4 years old into many modalities and approaches to the Healing Process both for myself and others. I went to school in Hawaii, and after completing school I held a job in construction in Hawaii. I loved the pride of seeing hard work completed at the end of the day, the field I was in was flooring. It was challenging work and it was too much for my body so I joined a local yoga center to heal my knee’s, lower back and stomach. I had heard about this particular studio from my family. First my grandfather found out about it through a free community service lecture for seniors. He was quite impressed so he passed the information to my mother, who later passed it on to myself.
What I have found through first being a practitioner and then a staff at Dahn Center is a stability and confidence about my place in life. It started with clear improvements in my body after only practicing for 2 weeks, I remember being really impressed and surprised it actually worked that quickly. Then after some deeper searching within’ myself through education and workshops I truly felt an improvement in my relationships especially with family. Notably my relationship with my mother improved drastically, I remember we got in a simple fight on the phone and moments later I called her back to say I was sorry and this is not what I want. Needless to say, she was shocked, I was also surprised at how easy it was to take up courage for my life and not just wade around knee deep in emotions every day. After improving my health and my relationships, I was ready for more, especially in the shape of being able to help others find this seaming naturalness to life. At that time, I became a full time Dahn Instructor and made this my career of Choice which I have upheld for the past 6 years.
Of course there was ups and downs, but they were no more or less then the obstacles of each age and time in my life faced previously. The difference was that I was now in a profession that required my mental, emotional and physical well-being to be at its optimal condition consistently. By keeping this standard, I formed many new habits that were not only beneficial for myself, but really allowed me to be a person that could benefit others.

88 | Laura Belson
01/11/2010 at 12:29 am

I have been a member of Dahn Yoga for 3 years, 2 of these years as a part-time instructor. I work at the center in the evenings after my full-time day job. I am grateful for Ilchi Lee developing educational training programs that have helped me achieve physical health, increased self-confidence, and greater mental focus.

I am employed full-time as an executive assistant with over 25 years in the administrative field. It is a job of service supporting executives with diverse personalities which requires the ability to be flexible and create harmony. Although I have been successful in my career and have raised 2 healthy children and now a grandmother of 3, I have had low self-esteem most of my life. I experienced many training programs throughout my adult life with the hope of sustaining the positive feelings I had while attending the trainings and incorporating the tools into my daily life. To no avail, I would sink back into my old habits and negative emotions.

I found a Dahn Yoga brochure that changed my life. It is Ilchi Lee, the head instructors, the Dahn Yoga centers, the trainings, the advanced trainers, and the members that has helped me let go of negative habits and emotions. Dahn Yoga is offered through daily classes within a community that supports peoples hopes and dreams. I needed this consistency in order to create lasting change.

None of the increased self-confidence and opportunities to become an instructor would have occurred if the trainings were not developed by Ilchi Lee with the hope and dream that people could experience health, happiness, and peace for themselves, for their families, communities, and the world. His enduring and unending commitment to this vision has made a difference in my life and thousands of others who have experienced Dahn Yoga. I am grateful that he had the courage, strength, and conviction to keep going when huge obstacles occurred and to this day has not given up on his vision. He has set an example as a role model; a leadership style that I can follow that continues to give me hope and courage when I encounter obstacles and want to run away.

I have taken many of the advanced trainings and have increased my participation in the center so that I can share with others the genuine care that was and still is given to me. I have found that lasting change occurs when I persevere in the most difficult times, have a community in which to share, and a vision that includes supporting others in their hopes and dreams for lasting health, happiness, and peace.

I am grateful for the opportunity to be a Dahn Yoga instructor and this opportunity to share my voice.

90 | Genia Sullivan
01/11/2010 at 3:35 pm

It must have been a powerful conversation. I feel so proud of myself and of all the other instructors who have overcome hardships to keep listening to their inner voice. I am truly proud of myself for doing that!!!! Because of that feeling, I have peace inside no matter what. I feel very lucky :@) to have this community and training.

92 | Sayong Kim
01/11/2010 at 4:13 pm

You touched the really important things and my heart is deeply touched by your heart and wisdom. Yes, you are right. We should open our eyes widely and open our mouth truthfully. Let us let the world know the reality of Dahn Yoga and our beautiful heart. I love you.

94 | Sayong Kim
01/11/2010 at 4:35 pm

Your sharing touched my heart. Thank you for your wonderful healing energy which flows from your sharing, that I feel. EACH individual, member or instructor, is coming to this voice field and making ONE big voice which is GRATITUDE, LOVE, HOPE AND OUR BEAUTIFUL FUTURE. Thank you again and again. I love you. 🙂

96 | Yeon Sook Hong
01/11/2010 at 4:44 pm

Thank you for your sharing! You spoke out what I want to say from my heart.

98 | jackie
01/11/2010 at 5:39 pm

I can hear how much Dahn Yoga has helped you through your words. Thank you for sharing them and I hope that the benefits keep growing for you.

100 | Jeff Woods
01/11/2010 at 6:29 pm

Thank you for sharing! You make it so simple — you’re just choosing to become a person who really values and improves his mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I am so happy for you 🙂

102 | Danielle Gaudette
01/11/2010 at 7:09 pm

I want to share about my parents and other Dahn Yoga instructor’s family members.
I have been running a center for about 6 years now. During that time, my own parents have been extremely supportive. They have come to various workshops and events just to support me, and visit me at the center often. We have all grown to love and appreciate each other even more than we ever did — I have found that I can express my love freely to my parents without any pains of the past causing any barriers between our hearts. My parents continue to become more and more beautiful in my eyes.
And more than that, I have done healing with many mothers, husbands, sisters, daughters and brother-in-laws of my my fellow instructors.
So what I want to share is that the Dahn Center is truly designed to be a Healing Family community and I have seen it and experienced it first – hand. When we all grow and heal and share that with those we love, alot of healing happens between us. It has been wonderful to bring my parents along this healing journey with me, as much as they want to walk it, and to see others doing the same.

Thank you.

Danielle

104 | Marina Kachko
01/11/2010 at 7:30 pm

Thank you Becky! I can truly feel your heart! Let’s keep going together!

106 | Sayong Kim
01/11/2010 at 7:48 pm

I will choose HOPE.
That is the only way that I can live and develop my value.
How about you?
What are you going to choose?

I will choose that I love YOU.

108 | John Thompson
01/11/2010 at 9:42 pm

the history of the settlement of this continent is one of injustice towards non-white people. here is yet another example.

110 | Alex Horns
01/11/2010 at 10:15 pm

Thank you for your sharing.
great!!!

112 | Becky Croissant
01/12/2010 at 12:04 am

Dear Marina, You have spoken beautifully and honestly. You hold CNN accountable and clearly state what Dahn Yoga means to so many of us. Thank you.

114 | Joan (D'vusha) Kamerman
01/12/2010 at 5:49 am

Dear Ms. Rodriguez,

As a viewer of CNN for several years, I feel serious diappointment regarding your broadcast of Dahn Yoga and its founder, Ilchi Lee. What has happened to the broadcasting network we have all relied on til now? Are you falling into sensational journalism?

I have been a Dahn student/instructor for 3 months short of 10 years. As an instructor and owner of my own yoga center, I have watched my students, all ages and abilities, conquer their stress, grow their health and upgrade the general management of their well being. They have changed the quality of their lives as family members, as colleagues and as general members of the community. As a student, myself, I witnessed my own growth and the incredible improvement of my health.

I therefore strongly recommend that you air informative, fair and well rounded documentation for your viewers; especially for our younger generation. We rely on you to make appropriate decisions and to provide reliable information; information that is going to bring health, happiness and productivity to the world.

As a once reputable network, you can revive your ethics and integrity. You can portray people and their endeavors as they really are. The choice is yours!

116 | Donnie Aguinaldo
01/12/2010 at 7:53 am

The world would denifitely be a better place if everyone chooses love. I choose to love everyone. Thank you

118 | Donnie Aguinaldo
01/12/2010 at 1:01 pm

After class today, I realized that so many miracles happen. One member who has MS was able to just walk without any caution. She was so happy after the Yoga class. Today is a very fulfilling day.

120 | Erin Gruber
01/12/2010 at 3:10 pm

Today all the members took time out of thier busy schedule to sit down for tea after the class. I think this time is so precious for them and I’m happy that we are able to provide it. It gives them a chance to share their hearts with people who will actively listen and care and also a chance to be that supportive open ear when it’s thier turn to listen. Yoga class is about so much more than getting physically fit. It is food for the body, soul and mind.

Thank you Durango Center Members!!!!

122 | Ju Young Moon
01/12/2010 at 5:55 pm

Thank you for your sharing.
I hope this world listen why we respect Ilchi Lee.

124 | Delia Licup
01/12/2010 at 10:36 pm

I am looking forward to working at the center tomorrow to be of always humble and grateful service for potential members, customers and teaching the classes. It’s always a pleasure working with the masters/instructors/members. Each and every person who comes to our door are precious and special. Let’s keep spreading positive energies and smiles.

126 | Jaclyn
01/13/2010 at 7:34 pm

thank you for sharing. The changes that you have gone through are wonderful testimony for the power of the program and the purpose of Dahn Yoga. To help each person become the best that they can.

128 | Becky Croissant
01/14/2010 at 11:06 am

Congratulations on sharing Dahn Yoga with your students. The more we share, the healthier the world will be! Thank you.

130 | Leo Lee
01/14/2010 at 6:31 pm

lots of love~~

132 | Leo Lee
01/14/2010 at 6:32 pm

thank you for sharing!!

134 | Afrika
01/14/2010 at 9:01 pm

Wow! I love how dahn practice can allow you to connect with “spirit” and heal. After Tai chi class I asked members to share an awakening or what they realized. One member shared she hasn’t connected to her spiritual body like today in some time. Another member said, “I smelled roses”. I asked if she knew what that meant. She said no. Then I told her there was a spirit visiting. Her eyes became wide. She then said, “it was my father” he passed away on the 13th of this month and his birthday is tomorrow.

She smiled and thanked everyone for giving her the courage to say “she smelt roses” which meant nothing to her at the time. I love it. I love it. I love it.

136 | Delia Licup
01/14/2010 at 11:52 pm

We have former members connecting with the center expressing interests still and then we have one who signed up again after years of absence, then we have couple of new members starting classes soon and then two more possible members. Cool, let’s keep rolling…the truth prevails…

138 | Jenny Sherwood
01/17/2010 at 11:28 pm

After the first year of a Master’s degree in Social Work, I was tired, lacked energy and knew I had to do something for my body. I also had a great interest in how I could integrate what I had been reading and learning about self-development into my own life and the lives of others to help create positive change in the world.

I decided I wanted to do yoga and after trying a class at the Dahn Yoga center in Burlington, Canada, I knew it was exactly what I was looking for. Through the practice, I gained more energy, became stronger and more confident, and was able to manage my stress and emotions much better. I began to practice being a better person instead of just reading and thinking about it. My husband decided to try a class and became a member at the center soon after I did.

As I noticed the benefits of this approach in myself, I also thought about how it could benefit many others. As a former teacher, I had been interested in how students could better relate to themselves and others in order to gain confidence and experience success. As a Social Worker, I was counseling individuals, couples, and families and working with families of children with disabilities and mental health needs. I began to recognize the importance of the mind-body connection in people’s lives. I became a Dahn Yoga instructor, taught part-time at the center and lunchtime classes for the staff at my workplace, and was able to integrate some of the principles and practical tools into my work with clients to help them manage their stress and their lives.

As a Social Worker, I also began to realize the impact of brain functioning on people’s thinking and behavior. Coincidentally, at the Dahn center we were also talking about the brain and a system of training called Brain Education. In 2007, I became a full-time instructor at our center. That summer, I experienced the Brain Education Conference and Brain Olympiad in New York and had a glimpse of how the simple principles and practices I was learning and teaching at the Dahn Center about how to understand and make better use of our brains could be shared as an educational approach in schools and other organizations with people of all ages.

I felt the hope that Brain Education offered for individuals, professionals, families and communities. I became a Brain Education Leader and taught the Brain Education for Enhanced Learning program for children at two Dahn Yoga centers in the Greater Toronto Area. I was amazed at how the program brought out the “true nature” of each child. I didn’t really have to teach them anything—their self-confidence, their creativity, their concern for each other and for the Earth, and their ability to focus and to manage their bodies and emotions–it was all inside of them and waiting to be re-discovered. As a teacher, this is the kind of approach to education I had been waiting for. As an individual, this was the kind of positive change I wanted to see in myself and in the world.

It was because of this that I went on to work with the International Brain Education Association and am now at the University of Brain Education in South Korea doing a Ph.D. in Brain Education. After doing my Masters, I said I would never do a Ph.D. but here I am studying in a “foreign” country. I made this choice because I see Brain Education as an approach to promoting complete health and well-being for people of all ages around the world.

I believe that Dahn Yoga and Brain Education offer simple principles and practical tools that people of all ages can use to manage their body and brain health, to reconnect to themselves and to each other, and to work together for the betterment of humanity and the Earth. I believe this to such an extent that I, along with my husband, bought our center as a franchise. My husband, who is a Dahn Yoga and Dahn Mu Do instructor (similar to Tai-Chi) and a personal trainer, is currently managing the center. People come to the center for different reasons, experience different benefits, and are involved at different levels. It is intended as a place where people can achieve their goals related to physical and/or emotional health and well-being, where people can connect with themselves and others more deeply, and where people can discover the potential we all have inside.

Over the past 6 years, as a member and instructor, I have been supported by and have worked and sometimes lived with instructors who were originally from Korea. I appreciate their dedication and see them as fellow human beings who are also growing and learning and have chosen this work as their life path. I have learned a lot from them and continue to learn from those I work, live and study with. I have never been encouraged not to spend time or to cut ties with my family or friends. I have never been forced to spend money. I have taken many trainings and workshops through Dahn Yoga from which I benefited greatly.

Living and studying in South Korea has given me a unique perspective and made me realize how cultural differences may contribute to misunderstandings. These differences include: a long history of traditional approaches to individual and collective well-being and of “teachers” who share and guide others, respect for elders and for senior team members, a more indirect versus direct approach to communicating, the importance of the group versus the individual, a rigorous work ethic, and a very creative and eclectic approach to language and culture—a real fusion of the old and the new. These cultural differences due to history and location are inherent in the language and way of communicating and although they sometimes make it difficult for me to understand and to communicate well, they provide an opportunity for me to learn a lot about myself and my own culture.

I believe that this is one of the reasons Ilchi Lee developed programs such as Dahn Yoga and Brain Education—to help people to experience and relate to themselves and each other in a way that goes beyond physical and social-cultural differences, to help people to connect with their bodies, with their brains, with their “true nature”, and with the Earth.

I have met with Ilchi Lee in-person several times and experienced many of his lectures and trainings. I consider him to be a teacher, a guide, and I share in his vision for a better world and in his belief that as humans we have the potential to use our brains to fix the problems we have created. He is someone who shines a light on the true potential of everyone he meets and believes that we can create positive change using this potential together. He shares this belief as an educator, an author, a speaker, a businessman, and founder of many non-profit organizations which support the promotion of health, wellbeing, and peace in the world. He has done this day in and day out for the past 30 years despite many challenges and obstacles.

I have done 3000 bows on two occasions in preparation for different trainings. Prior to doing 3000 bows, I had done 1000 bows many times. The first time I did 3000 bows I was with one of my co-workers and we took lots of water- and bathroom breaks. The second time, my center manager suggested I split the bows over three days because things were so busy at the center. Both times, after completing the bows, I felt like I had gained a lot of confidence and that my body was lighter. Bowing is part of the culture here in South Korea and is done as part of special ceremonies or holidays or as training. I do 103 bows every day and find it is an excellent exercise for my joints and a kind of active meditation that helps me calm my mind and connect deeper with myself.

I’m glad that this situation has given Dahn Yoga a chance to explain some of the practices and terms, such as bowing, so that people can understand what they are and how and why they are done. I think this kind of information is helpful in addition to the kind of information you get from actually experiencing or doing something.

It’s true that a lot of research has yet to be done on Dahn Yoga, Brain Education and specific techniques such as Brain Wave Vibration, and maybe even bowing. There is a lot of anecdotal evidence worldwide and some research studies, mostly done in South Korea but some from the US and Japan, to support these approaches and to merit further study. I have a particular interest in building on the research that has already been done and doing more in order to help communicate the approach and its benefits and to guide program development.

I think Dahn Yoga and Brain Education as approaches that integrate knowledge about the brain and brain-related behaviors for the health, happiness and peace of humanity have the potential to be a bridge for traditional wisdom and modern science, for Eastern and Western philosophy, for alternative and mainstream approaches to health and well-being, for spirituality and science and for all of the different ways we tend to separate ourselves from each other. I believe that all human beings are seeking to contribute in a positive way and to help others do the same and that if we recognize what we have in common and use our differences in a positive way we can collectively recover the health, happiness, and peace of humanity and the Earth.

Jenny Sherwood
University of Brain Education
South Korea

140 | Stephanie Parks
01/18/2010 at 8:23 pm

Stephanie Parks Las Vegas, Nevada January 8, 2010

I have always been interested in martial arts and have practice several different types. Tae Kwon Do, Judo, Aikido, Kung Fu, Jeet Kune Do, Tai Chi, and different types of Yoga. I became a Reiki practitioner and have worked with energy for many years. I realized something indescribable was missing for me. I didn’t feel a completeness. I could do many things physically. However, my foundation did not feel solid. My mind was not calm. I had drive, but no direction. I have had this deep desire to help people every since I was a child.

I became a police officer naively thinking I could save the world. One day, I was looking from a hill top over the city of Las Vegas, and I began to cry uncontrollably. I remember asking myself, “what am I doing? I have wasted so many years of my life, for What?” I had many material things around me. I still felt as thought I had not accomplished anything. I knew I was capable of anything I set my mind to. Why was I here? What was I to be doing with my life? I knew I had a purpose. I have overcome many life threatening moments. I was born for a reason. My job as a police officer was very stressful, and my health was becoming very poor. I had been admitted into the hospital for chest pains. I was prescribed medication, and I went home. The medication was only a mask for the pain I was in. I still had the pain, however, I was learning how to cover it up.

December of 2004, I received a Dahn Yoga brochure, and went to a center. The moment I stepped in I felt a physical release in my body. I was greeted with a warm genuine smile. I knew it was genuine because of all my years of reading people as a police officer. Police officers have a gut instinct we rely on a lot. I honestly believe this instinct has saved me from some pretty hairy situations. I began asking about their classes, and what type of yoga they taught. I was also interested in the Tai Chi so that I could quiet my mind. I was asked if I had time, and invited into the main training room. I followed asking about the yoga program. As I entered the room I remember seeing a large picture of Bell Rock from Sedona at the front of the room. I recognized Bell Rock because I recently went to Sedona and a tour guide had taken me there for a meditation. I agreed to an energy check up. The individual was very polite, and professional. Because of my Reiki background I knew what he was doing as he began to scan my body with his hands. He read me like a book. He could tell where I was holding tension in my body. He offered good advise of different exercises I could do to help heal and relax my body. As a police officer we learn how to hide our emotions, and physical pain. Very little is taught how to cope with the different violent circumstances we deal with on a regular basis. The emotional distress is stuffed, and I’ve found it to come out later as disease of my body.

I became a member, and quickly found how helpful the yoga classes were to me. At the beginning I had a hard time getting down on the ground and sitting with my legs folding across each other due to injuries I had. One of my doctors told me I was looking at a full knee replacement because of the arthritis and injury to my knee. I was in pain all of the time. Usually by the end of the day I was in so much pain. All I wanted was for the pain to leave me. Every part of my body was tight. The instructors helped me by modifying the different positions, and focusing on my breathe. They were so patient, and always offering me words of encouragement. I soon felt a big difference in how my body was much more relaxed, and I was happier. I would smile for no reason. Within one month, I stopped taking the two prescriptions I was on. I learned a bowing technique which helped me balance my hips, calm my mind, and helped me to get up off the ground easier. I took a weekend workshop called Shim Sung. It was the best decision I had ever made. It changed my life. After Shim Sung I had a deeper appreciation for everything around me. The trees and grass was greener. I had gone to the ocean many times in the past to sooth my mind. But this time, it was so remarkable. So much beauty. My family had a deeper meaning to me. I felt so much love in my heart for everything around me.

I began hiking up mountain trails, an activity I thought I’d never be able to do again because of my knee deterioration. I have been given a very precious gift. I am no longer looking at a full knee replacement.

I began teaching at the center. I knew I could help people. I really wanted to give what I had to the members at the Dahn Yoga Center. I have taken many different workshops since then. The value of them is priceless. Every workshop has built on the one before it. I was not only learning through the knowledge. I was experiencing health, and deep peace of the mind. My many years working as a police officer I had seen so many destructive behaviors, so many unhappy people. Family members killing each other. The dead bodies, the abused children, and the remorse. I knew if I could share what I had learned about the deep inner peace to as many people I could around me. If they could feel the tension release from their body, and taste the deep peace that lies within each of them. I knew then I was making a difference in the world. A person who connects with this deep peace within them can not harm another. I found my purpose. I am now a retired police officer of over 19 years of service to my community. I take no medications, and during my exit physical for the police department the doctor asked me what I had been doing because my test showed me in very good health. I told him yoga. He told me to keep it up. He said that most police officers who retire with as many years that I had on the department are in poor health, and on some kind of medication usually for their hearts. Before practicing Dahn Yoga, I visited my doctor’s office at least once or twice a year for illnesses, and respiratory infections.

I have been teaching Dahn Yoga since 2004, and I know I have had a positive effect on many people. I am now a very proud owner of a center of my own. I am making a difference in my community. I am helping others to heal themselves physically and emotionally. The district manager of the Dahn Yoga center once told me. We have two wolves inside of us. A bad wolve and a good wolve. The one that grows and becomes powerful is the one you feed. I have found my purpose. I feel complete. I know why I am here on earth. IlChi Lee has helped me find my way. I conducted an investigation on a cult during my 19 years as a police officer. This is not a cult. This is a misunderstanding due to cultural differences. I not only practice Dahn Yoga. I live it with every breath in my body because I know without it I would not be here today.

142 | Bohwa Oh
01/19/2010 at 4:08 pm

Thank you Alannim.
You are really great.

144 | Ana Maria Delva
01/22/2010 at 7:46 pm

Yes indeed, bowing meditation was the way for me to feel calmer and in touch with the beauty within, everytime I need to prepare to make a very important decision bowing has helped to obtain the answer without judgement.

146 | Tae Sung healer
01/24/2010 at 11:15 am

Tae Sung healer

I have been a Yoga instructor for the past 10 years. I am a registered and certified Hatha Yoga instructor at the 500 hour level.

I discovered the Dahn Practice in the Spring of 2004 and became a Dahn Instructor in 2005.

While there are many benefits to all of the various Yoga practices, my experience is that the Dahn practice is the most complete – combining energy tapping (meridian opening), stretching (asana), breathing practice (pranayama), and meditation all in one carefully designed class. And, the piece d’resistance is tea ceremony at the end of class where
members are invited to share their experience so that what they have learned is more fully integrated and grounded. Personally, I find the Dahn practice to be simultaneously energizing and relaxing.

Tae Sung healer, BEST Instructor

148 | Stephanie
01/24/2010 at 9:17 pm

I know this practice is what I have been searching for. And Ilchi Lee is the guide I was looking for too. I am very thankful for my spiritual growth and for finding the way to create my own destiny with freedom. Thank you!

150 | John Thompson
02/10/2010 at 10:28 pm

Dear RS Editor,

I am writing to you as a now, former dedicated reader of Rolling Stone magazine.

In reference to the February 5th article about Dahn Yoga, I am surprised that RS would publish such a ridiculous article. It is clear that your editorial staff has no understanding about the Dahn practice; nor, does there seem to be any interest from the staff in finding out–and publishing–the many benefits that this practice holds for individuals, communities and the Planet.

Since I have first-hand experience of many things the reporter writes about, I am tempted to go item-by-item to refute the gross inaccuracies of the article. But I value my time, so I will only say that RS should have taken a cue from the experience of the Korean magazine Shin Dong Ah, which was compelled to publish a retraction of its own trashy article about the Dahn practice. What RS deserves for itself publishing such trash, would be best expressed by the vernacular. But I will leave it to our legal experts to express it, after their own manner.

Finally, as a college student, I, too, cleaned toilets–for the Roman Catholic Church. The church was located adjacent to the college campus. There is nothing special about cleaning toilets–every where there is a toilet, it needs to be cleaned. But the reporter kept mentioning about it. It shows her poor taste. It is too bad for Rolling Stone that you would allow this reporter’s ”work” to appear in your magazine. Really too bad.

John Thompson