Photo :On November 23, members of Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy in Pasadena gathered for their first Thanksgiving luncheon, or Friendsgiving feast, in their new academy. 

Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy in Pasadena’s Inaugural Thanksgiving: Fostering Togetherness, Health, and Happiness

November 24, 2023

With families increasingly spread apart, it's become challenging for many to celebrate Thanksgiving together. Consequently, 'Friendsgiving' has surged in popularity as a substitute. It offers friend groups the opportunity to gather for a Thanksgiving-like feast, fostering a familial ambiance during the holiday season.

Photo :The Tai Ji Men members celebrated their inaugural Thanksgiving festival with a Friendsgiving feast, underscoring the significance of fostering togetherness, health, and happiness in a multicultural setting.

On November 23, members of Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy in Pasadena gathered for their first Thanksgiving luncheon, or Friendsgiving feast, in their new academy. Participants from different countries, along with local members and their families, collaboratively adorned the setting, creating a Thanksgiving ambiance reminiscent of the Lunar New Year eve.

The event was organized by Chiwen, a Tai Ji Men member and a fashion doll aficionado, and featured a culinary feast. Many of the attendees shared how Tai Ji Men qigong has helped them improve their physical and mental well-being, while enjoying a delightful feast prepared by Chef Brandon. 

Prior to joining Tai Ji Men, Chiwen had suffered from anxiety disorders, with symptoms including palpitations and panic attacks for an extended period of time. She found relief through the practice of Tai Ji Men qigong. 

The skilled young chef, Brandon, meticulously prepared delectable steaks cooked to varying degrees —rare, medium, and well-done—to cater to various preferences. He aimed to share this cultural experience with guests from different backgrounds. Reflecting on his qigong practice since adolescence, he learned that, regardless of the culinary outcome, as long as it is made with care, his fellow practitioners at the Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy, who are like his family, would enjoy the food. As a result, he opted for minimal seasoning, allowing the natural flavors of the steak to shine.

The day marked the 27th anniversary of marriage for two of the participants: Guoquan and Ruifeng. They expressed delight in celebrating and sharing this special occasion with everyone. Having practiced qigong for over a decade, Guoquan attested that it contributed to temper control, enhancing family relations. Ruifeng highlighted how qigong facilitated introspection before communication, fostering ongoing improvements in family relations.

The Tai Ji Men members celebrated their inaugural Thanksgiving festival with a Friendsgiving feast, underscoring the significance of fostering togetherness, health, and happiness in a multicultural setting.