About me
Inspired by my step-father's personal practice I sought out a local T'ai Chi instructor.
By the end of my first T'ai Chi class in January 2017, I knew that I needed to keep this
practice in my life. The slow intentional movement calmed my soul, soothed on-going
chronic pain and opened my eyes to a mind-body connection I had not yet experienced.
Now retired from academic theatre, I am taking the opportunity to pursue new passions
including herbalism and permaculture, indulge my love of fiber arts, and, of course,
explore Tai Chi even further. After my teacher moved away three years into my practice,
I developed a longing for a deeper understanding of T’ai Chi and the companionship of
practicing with others. Learning to teach others seemed the best way to gain that
understanding while allowing me to share the benefits of T’ai Chi practice with my
community here in the Hemet San Jacinto Valley at the foot of the majestic San Jacinto Mountains.
I am very grateful to have found Sifu Michael Paler of T’ai Chi Colorado Springs who so
generously shares his knowledge and experience in T’ai Chi. I earned Level One
Instructor Certification December 2024 and look forward to teaching and learning more
in my T’ai Chi practice.
Please meet my Sifu
About Sifu Michael and Imperial Yang Family Tai Chi
Sifu Michael Paler has over 32 years of experience in Chinese Martial Arts, focusing on Tai Chi and various Qigongs. He currently lives in Colorado, teaching daily classes and workshops at the Tai Chi Association of Colorado Springs. In addition to teaching daily classes, he also instructs Colorado College students who are a part of the Catamount Mountain Campus Program with emphasis on ecological stewardship through exploring the complex interactions between human and natural systems — using Tai Chi methodology. Sifu Michael also acts as an Olympic Coach and teaches Tai Chi techniques to U.S. Figure Skating hopefuls at the U.S. Olympic Training site in Colorado Springs.
Michael is known as a gentle and patient teacher and a kind and compassionate person. He currently spends all of his time and resources researching, studying, and teaching Imperial Yang Family Tai Chi in the Colorado Springs community and across North America. Michael teaches Imperial Yang Family Tai Chi as it was taught to him by his Master Wei Xilan and his martial 師叔 Shishu Dr. John Fung, both disciples of Master Wei Shuren. Sifu Michael Paler is also available for private lessons and workshops.