In an illuminating conversation with MysticMag, Sharon Smith delves into the inspiring origins and mission of Tao Sharon.
Drawing from her extensive experience with Tai Chi and Daoism, Sharon reveals how her journey began with a profound search for balance and healing, eventually leading her to share these ancient practices through Tao Sharon. Her story intertwines personal transformation with a deep commitment to modernizing traditional wisdom, making it accessible and relevant to today’s world.
With a dedication to both authenticity and contemporary relevance, Sharon’s work continues to make a significant impact on those seeking harmony and well-being in their lives.
What inspired you to create Tao Sharon and what is its main mission?
Daoism has always been a significant influence for me, emphasizing the balance between yin and yang—inner and outer, active and receptive, male and female. This dualistic understanding can be seen as a unifying concept. My journey with Tai Chi began in 1978, nearly 46 years ago. I was a young visual artist and photographer, dealing with various health issues related to my profession. I experienced a lot of energetic congestion, particularly in my third eye area, due to the demands of using heavy analog equipment and carrying a backpack full of film.
A recommendation to try Tai Chi led me to my first class, which I immediately found beneficial. Back then, finding teachers involved a lot of searching through spiritually oriented bookstores and bulletin boards, as the internet was not yet available. I knew right away that Tai Chi was what I had been looking for. I committed to it without feeling the need to explore other options, which contrasts with the modern tendency to “shop around” for classes.
Initially, I wasn’t deeply committed to teaching Tai Chi, as I was still focused on my photography career. However, after the events of 9/11 in New York City, my perspective changed. The aftermath of that tragedy motivated me to contribute in any way I could. I initially attempted to give blood and help with pet rescues but found my true calling when I was asked to assist at a family center for 9/11 responders and victims’ families.
There, I taught a simple form of Qigong called the Six Healing Sounds. This experience reinforced my sense of purpose and helped me realize how I could use my 30 years of Tai Chi, Qigong, and Daoist meditation practice to help others. Tao Sharon became a way for me to share these gifts and make a meaningful impact.
How does Tao Sharon integrate ancient wisdom into modern life practices?
I have studied with numerous Asian teachers, including a few who have been my main guides and others who have significantly contributed to my understanding. I strive to practice the techniques as they were originally taught to me. However, as a modern individual, I didn’t grow up in China and am not deeply interested in the hierarchical structures often found in traditional Asian religions. While I respect the wisdom and knowledge of others, I prefer a more contemporary approach.
I am influenced by modern science and various modalities such as the Feldenkrais Method, Alexander Technique, and even weightlifting and gym workouts. My approach involves blending ancient wisdom with contemporary practices. I don’t live in a monastery; I have visited such places and studied at a martial arts school on Wudang Mountain for a month, but I incorporate what I learn into my everyday life.
For me, integrating ancient knowledge with modern practices is about honoring traditional teachings while also questioning and examining their relevance and effectiveness in today’s world. It’s about responsibility and ensuring that the wisdom we pass on is both meaningful and practical in our current context.
What are the key benefits that users can expect from engaging with Tao Sharon’s offerings?
I offer a range of live and online classes, as well as organize retreats and events. For several years, I hosted the Qigong Global Summit, organized by the Shift Network, where I curated the educational experience by inviting experts to share their insights.
Engaging with Tao Sharon’s offerings provides numerous benefits. These practices are effective for stress reduction, achieving emotional balance, and addressing specific physical issues such as improving balance, lowering blood pressure, and managing hormonal changes. On my website, there is a dedicated page outlining these benefits, supported by various studies on Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation.
Recent research, including a notable symposium at Harvard University last fall, has confirmed the efficacy of these practices. Personally, at 73 years old, I am in the best shape of my life, thanks to my consistent practice.
It’s important to note that the benefits of these practices develop over time. Unlike the fast-paced results often expected in today’s culture, the true impact comes from long-term commitment. Practicing regularly over many years will significantly enhance your energy levels, overall health, and emotional well-being.
Can you share a success story where Tao Sharon made a significant impact on someone’s life?
One of my favorite success stories involves a man who reached out to me about seven or eight years ago. He called and asked if he could join my class, explaining that he was blind. I welcomed him without hesitation and was excited to have him.
This man had lost his sight in his 60s, but he had previously been a sighted individual. He attended my Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation classes, immersing himself deeply in the practices. Over time, I suggested he consider becoming a teacher himself. Initially, he was reluctant, but I encouraged him, emphasizing his potential to inspire others.
He embraced the challenge and became a teacher, sharing his newfound skills with others who were blind. He was incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join my classes and for the encouragement to teach. He had faced rejection from other instructors who didn’t accept him, so my acceptance and support meant a lot to him.
Now in his mid-70s, he remains in excellent physical shape and continues to inspire many. His story, including his African American background, highlights his remarkable journey and the positive impact of our work. To me, this is a profound example of success.
How do you ensure the authenticity and effectiveness of the practices and teachings provided by Tao Sharon?
To ensure the authenticity and effectiveness of my practices, I have undergone several certification programs. I am a Certified Senior Level 2 Instructor of Mantak Chia’s Universal Healing Tao as well as the Shengzhen Society of the Americas. These credentials are listed in the “About Sharon” section of my website.
I continually advance my knowledge by studying with various teachers. Before the pandemic, I organized events in NYC with esteemed qigong teachers like Li Junfeng and Daisy Lee. From 2020 -2023, I had the invaluable experience of hosting the Shift Network’s Qigong Global Summit, and interviewing many of the world’s greatest qigong masters, teachers, and enthusiasts.
My approach involves ongoing learning and self-testing to ensure that the practices and teachings I offer remain relevant and effective. This commitment to continual improvement helps maintain the high standards of authenticity and effectiveness in my work.
What future plans or new programs are you excited about for Tao Sharon?
Thank you for asking! Since 2017, I have been deeply committed to supporting women in our practices, including both practitioners and teachers. My dedication to this cause started earlier, but it was in 2017 that I launched the first Immortal Sisters conference. This event brought together 100 women, including around twenty female teachers. It was a huge success, transformative, and groundbreaking for many attendees.
Following that, we held a smaller conference in 2019 and a retreat in Mexico in 2023, called “Be Like Water.” Looking ahead, I’m particularly excited about a retreat planned for January 2025 in Mexico, titled “Shedding.” This retreat will take place in Palenque, a jungle area known for its famous ruins. It will be a six-day event featuring ten teachers, daily Qigong practice, and excursions to the ruins and waterfalls. The theme is inspired by the Chinese Year of the Yin Wood Snake, symbolizing renewal and growth through shedding old limitations.
In addition, I am starting a foundation called the Immortal Sisters of the Tao. This foundation, named after the female Taoist teachers of ancient times, will provide financial support to women who wish to pursue training and development in this path but face financial or time constraints. This initiative is a new and exciting chapter for me, and I am eager to see it unfold.
Find out more at: www.taosharon.com
About the retreat: www.immortalsistersconference.com
