Biography
With over 40 years of experience in Taiji, Qigong, and Visual Arts, Leonard Han has dedicated much of his career to interdisciplinary arts while promoting health and wellness. He taught Taiji, Qigong, and Chinese Lion Dance at California State University, Monterey Bay, from 1998 to 2016.
Leonard is certified in Qigong and Taiji through the International Healing Tao under Grandmaster Mantak Chia. He is also a 20th-generation lineage holder in Chen Family Taijiquan, trained in China as a 59th indoor disciple of Grandmaster Chen Qingzhou. Additionally, Leonard has trained in Dr. Paul Lam's Tai Chi for Arthritis Program and has led workshops for corporate and community groups. For over 30 years, Leonard has taught Taiji and Qigong at various institutions, including the Monterey Japanese American Citizens League, the Chinese Association of Salinas, Chamisal Tennis and Fitness Club, Carmel Valley Manor, Merrill Gardens Senior Living, as well as many businesses, corporations, and private clients.
Since 1982, Leonard has integrated Taiji, Qigong, and visual art into the emerging field of neuro-aesthetics which explores how our brains and bodies transform through participation in the arts. He uses these practices to enhance memory, cognitive skills, and learning by fostering a deeper mind-body connection. One example of how Qigong engages all the senses is an exercise that involves chanting mantras to create vibrations, calming the mind and relaxing the body in preparation for Taiji. This is just one of many exercises that strengthen the connection between the brain and body, and how this knowledge is improving our health, empowering us to thrive, and ultimately contributing to the creation of stronger communities.
Leonard's wife, Jia Zhu, is a licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac), specializing in pain management and certified in Tuina/Acupressure. Together, they promote wellness through a community-centered approach to well-being.
Leonard is married with two sons.