3 Reasons We Moved to the Bitterroot Valley (and Why We Want You to Visit)

First, Achin’ for Small Town Livin’

I grew up in a small town. Aitkin Minnesota is a small town smack dab in the center of Minnesota. Because it’s north of the big Twin Cities, it’s considered Northern Minnesota. Lots of lakes (really: lots and lots of little lakes) and forests and fields surrounded the home I where I grew up.

I mucked through swamps and slopped through bogs as a kid.

I had chances to make mistakes, like any young person should, without too much hassle. There were healthy, personally-accountable ways to clean up mistakes.

Small communities are closely knit.

Second, Smog

My wife and I have a small boy. Perhaps you’ve seen his picture (he’s the one holding Reviving Taiji).

I met Shannon, married her, and we had Ronan in Salt Lake City, Utah. It’s a great state and swell city. But it has, unfortunately, been mired by smog. Air quality declines year after year with more and more consistency. My heart grew heavy staying indoors last year during 12 days of “Red” air — unsafe for my boy to breathe.

Plus, I practiced Taiji outside. RealTaiji training took place in a local park, and our eyes burned…just a little…like a light little chemical burn.

Ironically, I guess, when we moved to Ravalli County, we found forest fire smoke in the valley. Still — the air’s clean.

And in the winter, a soft scent of wood smoke lingers on the air.

Third, Ease

Things move slow.

Life is naturally tuned to Qigong.

The whole place is quieter. The whole county is less frenzied. People really drive 25 mph through town.

Nice and gentle.

Why We Want You to Visit

We envisioned jump starting RealTaiji here — in Ravalli County. It fits my vision of perfect places to practice: there are lots of spots to train outside, among mountains, rivers, and deep pine forests.

We will host workshops, some free classes, and private training.

And to prepare…start with Reviving Taiji, and soon we’ll add an on-line course to get you geared up.

Keep a stiff eye on RealTaiji because the Course is coming soon.

posted: 4 December 2009 by author: S.Smith
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