I vividly remember sitting alone in the university hospital, tears streaming down my face after the doctor told me I had tested positive for HLA-B27. This genetic marker is strongly associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis, a severe rheumatic disease that had afflicted my grandfather. The diagnosis was a turning point in my life, bringing intense pain and a sense of uncertainty about the future.

At the same time, I was pursuing a challenging PhD in Bioscience Engineering. Faced with the dual pressures of managing chronic pain and the high stress of my studies, I turned to Tai Chi Chuan as a way to maintain my physical and mental well-being.

What began as a necessity quickly became a passion. Under the guidance of Master Yang, Jwing-Ming, a world-renowned Tai Chi and Qi Gong master, I started my training at YMAA in Belgium and later continued in Boston while conducting postdoctoral research at MIT. In 2013, I became an assistant instructor at YMAA.

In Boston, I also had the privilege of training under Master Ramen Rones, an expert in applying Tai Chi Chuan principles to therapeutic practices for patients with cancer and chronic conditions. Assisting Master Rones at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute deepened my understanding of Tai Chi’s healing potential.

During this transformative time, I connected with Master Tung Kuan Yen, whose profound expertise in authentic Tai Chi Chuan left a lasting impression on me. Determined to learn from him, I traveled frequently to Los Angeles and Barcelona to further my training. In 2015, I was honored to be accepted as a direct disciple of Master Tung, receiving the full knowledge of his ancient lineage.

After my adventure in Boston, I moved to Switzerland to begin my professional career in the pharmaceutical industry. Despite the demands of my job, I remained committed to my Tai Chi Chuan training, balancing corporate responsibilities with ongoing study. From 2017 to 2019, while living in Shanghai, I taught Tai Chi Chuan to my Chinese colleagues.

Upon returning to Basel just before the COVID lockdown, I founded my own Tai Chi school. Today, my school is a community where students practice Tai Chi Chuan to enhance vitality and health.

My journey from a pain-ridden PhD student to a healthy, high-performing professional is a testament to the transformative power of Tai Chi Chuan. My dedication to mastering the art under the guidance of three world-renowned masters has not only enriched my life but also empowered me to help others achieve better health and well-being. Through my Tai Chi school, I continue to share my knowledge and passion, fostering a community committed to holistic health and vitality.