https://youtu.be/uCpkwAkNJj0?si=CtWmRsyiFGpAMKUg

Hey guys, just wanted to give you a quick update. First off, congratulations again to everyone who completed the challenge. We’re proud of you. As far as the prizes go, we placed the merch order last week. Our manufacturer is out of the country, so production and shipping to us will take several weeks. Once everything arrives, we’ll need a little time to sort the items and send them out to each individual winner. Because of this timeline, you’ll most likely receive your prizes in early May. We know you’re excited, and trust us, we were just as excited to run this contest. Everything is in motion. It’s just taking a bit longer than we originally expected. You will absolutely receive your prizes and gifts. For the next contest, we’ll make sure the prizes are ready in advance so the turnaround is much faster. Thank you for your patience 🙂

We’re excited to open a new space in our community: Posture Lab — a focused area for refining your form and deepening your understanding of movement. 🔎 What is Posture Lab? Posture Lab is a space where you can share a photo or video of your Tai Chi or Qigong practice if you’d like more intentional guidance from Sonny. Because we practice online and can’t always adjust you in person, this space helps bridge that gap. Small adjustments can often create profound changes in how the body feels and moves. It’s designed to help you: - Refine alignment - Improve structure and balance - Understand principles more deeply - Connect posture to internal concepts like Song (松, relaxation), rooting, and center ✔️ How to Use It & Maximize Your Practice To get the most out of Posture Lab: - Upload a clear photo or short video (side view, front view, or both — even better!). - You can focus on one movement or posture at a time, or share a full sequence like the Beijing 24 Form. It’s completely up to you — the goal is to support your practice and study. - Share what you’re experiencing or unsure about. After receiving guidance: - Revisit the movement slowly. - Apply one adjustment at a time. - Notice how it changes your sensation, balance, and breathing. 💡 Example You might post a short clip of your Horse Stance and say: “I feel centered, but my thighs burn quickly and my shoulders feel tight.” Feedback might explore: - Knee tracking over the toes - Pelvic position - Shoulder relaxation (Song) - Weight distribution through the feet Often, one small structural shift can reduce strain or discomfort significantly. Posture Lab is a supportive space where you can study your own practice with curiosity and thoughtful exploration. Sharing your practice supports not only your own growth but also helps others learn through observation. This is an intentional space where you can deepen your study of Tai Chi and Qigong online and build a stronger relationship with your body and the way you practice.

We’re so happy you’ve joined the Rooted Alchemy community! Whether you’re completely new or continuing your journey, this is a space to move at your own pace, and grow steadily in your Tai Chi and Qigong practice. Feel free to comment here to get to know each other. And don't hesitate to ask any questions about Tai chi and Qigong. We got you! Here’s a fun question for our existing members to share some insights with new members... “Are you more of a morning practitioner or an evening flow person? And why? @Peggy Bartz @Daniel Beals @Rebeca Borbely @John Tucciarone @Barbara Clivio @Edward Bowen @Nicky Jae @Dawn Harms @Glenda Snape @Steve Calhoun @Anne Larson @Bill Conlin @John Tighe @David Henriques @Marlo Ca @Barbara Damato @Virginia Ober @Nancy Worcester @Lucas Brun @José De Meester @Lisa Batie @Kristine Thut @Joel Hughes @Mike Poettcker @Tony Petrovic @Maciej Cynowski @Erol Cetin @Richard McClead @Tiffany D'angelo @Paul McDonnell @Bruce Breckner @Judy Nobida @Shoshana Rappeport @John Vernier

Retirement (for me) has proven to be more than just a condition you find yourself in.... I was born in Lubbock Texas,, ( THE PANHANDLE ) raised on and taught Cowboy ethics,, (God, Family, County and State) but also that ALL PEOPLE COUNT!!! That a Man or Woman's worth and value is measured on his or hers commitment and honor shown to All the Above and to how,, WORK AND PROVIDE THEIR FAMILY'S.. I've WORKED ( HARD,, AN HONEST) over 56 years,,, THEN CAME RETIREMENT!! I still wake up at 3:30 am. BUT have NO JOB to go too.... I HAVE NO JOB !!! The EMOTIONAL STRAIN of that STATEMENT has been HARD on me!! I HAVE CONTINUED TO " DO SOMETHING QI EVERYDAY" And it has helped,, a lot!! But also HAD to learn the difference between "I DON'T HAVE A JOB" and "I DON'T NEED A JOB" also that "SOCIAL SECURITY AND PENSION IS NOT CHARITY" NOR ASSISTANCE FOR THE UNEMPLOYED,,, BUT A MONETARY RETURN ON ONE'S LONG TERM SELF-INVESTMENT!! NOW THAT'S ("RUNNING OFF AT THE MOUTH") SORRY GUYS AND GALS,, BUT I NEEDED TO GET OUT OF MY SYSTEM!!! "I'M BACK"!!! PLEASE ACCEPT MY APOLOGIES FOR MY SILENCE AN ABSENCE FROM THE GROUP!! "LET'S DO SOMETHING QI TODAY,, EVERYDAY" AND BELIEVE ME WHEN I SAY,,, "SOMETHING WONDERFUL IS HAPPENING"!!! SOMETHING WONDERFUL HAS HAPPENED FOR ME!!!