Kaleo Ching
Elise Dirlam Ching

2024

Private Practice



I offer Hawaiian Lomilomi Massage, Medical Qigong, and Hypnotherapy/Shamanic Journeys. These are ancient holistic modalities that offer clarity and wisdom and enhance your relationship with self, others and Spirit. I've worked with clients with physical discomfort, emotional blockages, or in major life transitions such as pregnancy, surgery, or hospice to help in their dying process.
Learn more about bodywork
Learn more about Qigong, Art Process, Maskmaking classes
View GALLERY Kaleo's art and Elise's poetry

For appointment, contact Kaleo

Endeavors & Classes

Elise and I are working on "Riding the Midnight Wing" a new book of her poetry with some of my shamanic journeys. We hope to inspire others on their own creative life's journey.
We've filmed various Qigong classes for Rossmoor TV (Channel 28).
We love volunteering teaching "Qigong for Harmony and Spirit” for peace and justice, Buddhist and interfaith venues, and schools. We've taught Qigong in Spanish for Universidad Transpersonal, Puebla; Aluxes Ecoparque, Palenque; and the Monument Crisis Center, Concord. Elise loves working with the animnals at the Lindsay Wildlife Experience.

Healthy Mind, Healthy Body: A Day of Sitting Meditation, Guided Meditation, Dharma Study, Qigong, and Listening in Peaceful Harmony

Saturday, March 23, 2024, 10 am to 4 pm
Presenters: Ven. Thich Tu Luc, Chau Yoder, Kaleo Ching, with Dharmacharyas, OI and friends of the Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism
Contact: To attend please contact photridom@gmail.com or 925-708-8662
Participants: Please bring your own vegetarian/vegan lunch and water. Clothing should be "monastery appropriate" and fragrance free.

Location: Wisdom Meditation School, 7233 Pleasants Valley Road, Vacaville

Visit Wisdom Meditation School.

Tiger's Breath Qigong (Part 2) - In Person and Hybrid/Zoom

March 19 to May 28, 2024
Tuesdays, 9:45 to 10:45 am PST
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Acalanes Adult Education
1963 Tice Valley Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA
925-280-3980 Ext 4134

Course Description: Tiger's Breath Qigong (part 2), a movement form similar to Tai Chi, enhances balance, strength, coordination, and flexibility. Class also includes Qigong posture and breathing techniques to use in everyday life and acupressure points to enhance your energy and immune system. Part 1 and Part 2 don’t have to be taken in order. This class will meet in person (room 303) and online – in-person attendance recommended (all students will be able to access a link for attending online). All levels welcome.

Registration: Acalanes Adult Education.
View our Qigong video.

Recommended Reading
"The Creative Art of Living, Dying, and Renewal: Your Journey Through Stories, Qigong Meditation, Journaling, and Art", by Elise and Kaleo Ching, North Atlantic Books, 2014.
"Chi and Creativity: Vital Energy and Your Inner Artist" by Elise and Kaleo Ching, Blue Snake Books, 2007.
At local bookstores or Amazon

InterFaith Earth Day Festival

Sunday, April 21, 2024
12:30 pm to 4:00 pm

Congregations and communities represented at this event are: Beth Chaim, The Reutlinger Community, San Ramon Islamic Center, San Ramon Baháʼí’s, St. Timothy’s Episcopal, Peace Lutheran, California Interfaith Power & Light (educating others about environmental stewardship, conservation, and the effects of global warming). Activities: Ritual, Labyrinth Walk, Art Exhibit, Community Art Projects, Music and Performances, Food, Presentation on Non-Violent Communication, Youth Activities, Calls to Action.
Pili Moreno and Kathy Balint will be doing Hawaiian music and hula
Kaleo is presenting the "Aloha Qigong".

A community art exhibit (3-months duration) will be at Peace Lutheran. Kaleo is displaying 6 pieces of his art with Elise's accompanying poetry. Peace Lutheran Church
3201 Camino Tassajara, Danville, CA
‭(925) 648-7000‬

Point Reyes National Seashore: Qigong and Art: Your Inner Garden

Saturday, April 27, 2024 10 am to 4:00 pm
Instructor: Kaleo Ching

Description: Spring, a season when things are flourishing – plants budding and blossoming, wildlife giving birth. At Point Reyes you might see gray whale mothers and calves migrating beyond the shores, tule elk with calves in the grasslands, birds tending their nestlings or teaching fledglings to fly, and many more. Spring is a time for us humans, too, to nurture our own creative potential. We invite you to join us in a day of Qigong and art. Under the Bay Laurel and Douglas Fir trees at Bear Valley, we'll begin with Qigong (energy techniques) to connect intimately with the energies and rhythms of nature, including Zhan Zhuang tree meditation, Earth Qigong grounding, Spiraling Dragon Qigong. Then, in the spacious Red Barn classroom, you'll experience “Your Inner Garden" guided visualization to explore the creative energies within you and nourish what is ready to blossom and grow. Through mixed media art, you'll experience joy and freedom as you express your Inner Garden’s special haven – a collage/painting or sculpture of a nest, den, field of creative potential. All levels of Qigong or art experience welcome.

A variety of mixed media art supplies will be provided (140 lb water-color paper, acrylic paints & media, tools, clay, beads, natural materials and fibers, herbs, magazines etc). Bring magazines, photos, or personal items to add to your art piece. Please bring your lunch and beverage.

Registration: Point Reyes National Seashore Association
Location: Red Barn Classroom 75 Bear Valley Road, Pt. Reyes Station, CA

Woo Woo in the Redwoods: A Reiki and Shamanic Community Retreat in the East Bay Redwoods

Sunday, April 28, 2024 10 am to 5:00 pm
Canyon Elementary School Redwood Grove 187 Pinehurst Rd, Canyon, Ca

There will be (3) 90-minute workshops at 11:00am, 1:30pm, and 3:00pm. Each session will have 4 or 5 different workshops available for adults and teens.

"Aloha Qigong" - 1:30 to 3:00 pm
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Description: Qi, the life force, pulses and flows in the realms of the galaxies and stars, in Mother Earth and all her nature beings. Feel and share the intimacy of Qi, its radiant vitality that interconnects all that is, through Shimmering and Earth Qigong and the simple but profound “Aloha Qigong” form. A guided shamanic journey will also lead you into unseen realms to embrace your inner sanctuary. If you wish, bring a journal to write and sketch your discoveries.

View Aloha Qigong video.

Registration: Woo Woo in the Redwoods

Ekphrasis: Exhibition of Works by Artists and Writers

Reception: Saturday, May 4, 1:00 to 5:00 pm (includes readings by Authors/Artists)
Exhibit: May 2, 10:00 am to June 2, 2024
Kaleo and Elise have 3 paintings and poetry in this group exhibit

Curated by Bill Carmel and Deborah Wechsler
A collaboration between LaMorinda Arts Alliance, LaMorinda Arts Council, and the California Writer’s Club

Orinda Library
26 Orinda Way, Orinda, CA 94563
‭(925) 254-2184‬

Peaceful Heart Sangha - Buddhist Meditation Group (Thich Nhat Hahn)

Every Sunday 3 to 4:30 pm Pacific Time
Host: Chau Yoder and others

Join us for meditation, chanting, guided relaxation, mindful movement.
Kaleo shares Qigong on various Sundays. May 12, 19, 26. Please email me if you want to know the Sundays I teach.

ONLINE: permanent Zoom Link: https://tinyurl.com/2p8hn9bu
Passcode: Connection

EARTHFEST ART EXHIBITION: Works by Artists and Writers

Reception with Wine Bar and Jazz Evening: Sunday, June 2, 5:00 pm
Exhibit: May, June, July
Kaleo and Elise have 6 paintings and poetry in this group exhibit

Curated by Bill Carmel

Peace Lutheran
3201 Camino Tassajara, Danville, CA
‭(925) 648-7000

Aquinas at Orvieto

Description: Deepen your spiritual journey as mystic and prophet in Orvieto. Celebrate the 800th anniversary of Thomas Aquinas in a 5-days retreat with one of the greatest teachers of our time, Matthew Fox. Art-as-Meditation options: Meshi Chavez (Movement); Claudia Picardi (Images); Elise and Kaleo Ching (Haiku & Qigong):

June 9-14, 2024
Orvieto, Italy

Registration: Matthew Fox.

Aloha Qigong - In Person and Hybrid/Zoom

June 25 to July 16, 2024
Tuesdays, 9:45 to 10:45 am PST
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Description: Aloha means: ‘alo – in the heart of the universe; hā – the breath of the Sacred, which infuses all realms, of minerals, plants, animals, humans, and the stars. Experience Qigong interweaving you, through vital energy on a cellular level, with nature’s realms. Learn meridian massage with corresponding acu-points; Qigong breathing, posture, and exercises; and the Aloha Qigong form to foster harmony of body, mind, and spirit. Hybrid classes are offered but in-person attendance is highly recommended.

Acalanes Adult Education
1963 Tice Valley Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA
925-280-3980 Ext 4134

Registration: Acalanes Adult Education.
View our Qigong video.

Qi Meridian Movement & Massage - Online/Zoom

July 19 to August 23, 6 Fridays, 10 am to 12 pm PST
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Chi Nei Tsang Institute
Fee: $90-$150 sliding scale donation
All registrants get video recordings and notes after each session

Description: Qigong is an ancient Taoist shamanic practice grounded in Classical Chinese Medicine. You will learn: Holistic qigong movement practices to engage the physiological, mental, and energetic systems of the body; Meridian massage and related acupressure points to improve Qi and blood circulation. Qigong breathing techniques to benefit the internal organs of your body, and enhance mental performance; The Aloha Qigong; Guided shamanic journeys for the cultivation of deep wisdom from unseen realms. Enhance your Qi, Chi Nei Tsang practice, and inner spiritual practices through explorations of Acupoints, Zhan Zhuang Posture, Earth and Shaking Qigong, Microcosmic Orbit with its 7 Loops of Individuation, Column of Light, Aloha Qigong and more.

Registration: Chi Nei Tsang Institute.
View our Qigong video.

Recommended Reading
"The Creative Art of Living, Dying, and Renewal: Your Journey Through Stories, Qigong Meditation, Journaling, and Art", by Elise and Kaleo Ching, North Atlantic Books, 2014.
"Chi and Creativity: Vital Energy and Your Inner Artist" by Elise and Kaleo Ching, Blue Snake Books, 2007.
At local bookstores or Amazon

Qigong and Art: Your Inner Garden

Lafayette Community Garden Sunday, July 14, 2024 10 am to 4 pm
Instructors: Kaleo & Elise Ching

Description: Qi is a creative force permeating the universe and our lives. Learn Qigong (energy) techniques to connect intimately with nature. Experience guided visualization to discover your Inner Garden and meet your personal spirit guardian/animal. Through mixed media art, you'll experience joy and freedom as you express your Inner Garden’s special haven – a collage/painting or sculpture of a nest, den, field of creative potential. All levels of Qigong or art experience welcome.

A variety of mixed media art supplies will be provided (140 lb water-color paper, acrylic paints & media, tools, clay, beads, natural materials and fibers, herbs, magazines etc). Bring magazines, photos, or personal items to add to your art piece. Please bring your lunch and beverage.

Registration: Lafayette Community Garden
Location: Oak View Room 3, Creekside Commons, 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette, CA 94549 CA

Qi and Creativity in Nature

Saturday, August 17, 2024 10 am to 4:00 pm
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Description: Qi is a creative force permeating the universe and our lives. Learn special Qigong (energy cultivation) techniques to connect intimately with nature, including Zhan Zhuang tree meditation, Earth Qigong grounding practice, Shimmering Qigong in harmony with the rhythms of nature. Experience the "Tree of Life" guided journey to discover and deepen your relationship with your special tree, then meet your personal spirit guardian/animal. Learn mixed media art/collage techniques to continue the dialogue and express your discoveries through mixed media art-collage.

A variety of mixed media art supplies and watercolor paper will be provided. If you wish, bring your personal journal, special magazines, photos, or personal items for your collage. Please bring your lunch and beverages. All Qigong and art levels welcome.

Registration: Point Reyes National Seashore Association
Location: Red Barn Classroom 75 Bear Valley Road, Pt. Reyes Station, CA

8 Brocades Qigong and the Haiku Experience - In Person Class

September 10 to October 15, 2024
Tuesdays, 9:45 to 11 am
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Description:Qigong is meditation in motion. Haiku is meditation with nature. Learn the 1,000-year-old Eight Brocades Qigong form to release stress and increase vitality, flexibility, and grounding with the energies of heaven and earth. Explore haiku, a simple three-line poetic form of Japanese origins, through reading and writing haiku as you feel inspired. Then share with others your personal experiences of Qigong and the “haiku moment.” All levels welcome.

Acalanes Adult Education
1963 Tice Valley Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA
925-280-3980 Ext 4134

Registration: Acalanes Adult Education.
View our Qigong video.

Qigong and the Haiku Experience - Online Zoom class

October 3, 10, 17, 2024
Thursdays, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm PT
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Description: Qigong is meditation in motion. Haiku is meditation through the senses in attunement with the world around you. Learn Qigong, an ancient Taoist shamanic practice grounded in Traditional Chinese medicine to cultivate health and harmony in the energies of heaven and earth and to open portals to mystical realms. Explore haiku, a simple three-line poetic form of Japanese origins, to express your experiences. Then share with others your personal journeys with Qigong and the “haiku moment.” All levels welcome.

Creation Spirituality Communities
1972 Wintergreen Dr Carlsbad, CA

Registration: Creation Spirituality Communities.
View Kaleo's Qigong video.

Qigong Energy Techniques for Hypnotherapists - Level 6 (advanced)

September 18, 2024 Wednesday, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Instructor: Kaleo Ching

Hypnotherapy Training Institute
Corte Madera, CA

Description: Learn Qigong, acupoints, and techniques for psychic and energetic protection, to facilitate the hypnotic induction, and to deepen and anchor the hypnotic experience.

Registration: Hypnotherapy Training Institute

Cultivate Habits for Joy and Compassion: A Day of Mindfulness Practices

Saturday, September 21, 2024, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
with Dharmacharyas, OI Members and Friends of the Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism

Join us for Silent Sitting Meditation, Guided Meditation, Dharma Study, Qigong, and Listening in Peaceful harmony with Ven. Thich Tur Luc, Chau Yoder, True Compassionate Dwelling and Kaleo Ching.

Participants: Please bring your own vegetarian/vegan lunch and water. Clothing should be "Monastery appropriate". Fragrance-free are greatly appreciated. Cushions and chairs are provided. Bring your own cushion if you prefer.

Wisdom Meditation School, 7233 Pleasants Valley Road, Vacaville, CA

RSVP: Call or text Chau: 925.708.8662 or email: photridom@gmail.com

Qigong for Caregivers and Cancer Patients - In Person and Hybrid

September 27, October 4, October 11, 2024 3 pm to 4:30 pm PST
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Cancer Support Community of San Francisco Bay Area
Fee: Free

Description: Learn Qigong, acupressure, and massage techniques to help prevent chemo-induced neuropathy, for brain clarity and focus, to alleviate stress and pain, for cleansing and nourishing on cellular levels, for building the immune system, and for body/mind harmony.

Registration: Cancer Support Community of San Francisco Bay Area.
View Kaleo's Qigong video.

A Salon-Style Poetry Reading: Poetry for the Ages

October 29, 2024; Tuesday 12:00 pm

Original Work by poets and Elise Ching

Town Hall Theatre, Lafayette, California

For more information: Love Lafayette/Public Art.

Discoveries through Art, Journaling and the Haiku Moment - In Person Class

November 5, 12, 19, 2024
Tuesdays, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Description: Invite your inner artist to emerge as we explore the ancient ways of haiku, a concise three-line poetic form of Japanese origins, and art/collage/journaling – simple and profound ways of personal expression. Experience guided Qigong meditation to arouse your imagination and senses, then express your discoveries through words and visual images. Between classes, you are encouraged to explore in nature and express your “haiku moments” in your art-journal. All levels welcome.

Acalanes Adult Education
1963 Tice Valley Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA
925-280-3980 Ext 4134

Registration: Acalanes Adult Education.
View Kaleo's Qigong video.

Discoveries in Nature through Haiku and Art

Saturday, October 26, 2024 10 am to 4:00 pm
Instructors: Kaleo and Elise Ching

Description: As we explore the realms of nature, discover and open to the magic of the “haiku moment.” Channel your experience into haiku’s simple 3-line poetic form. Then, in the Red Barn classroom, expand your creative expression through mixed-media art. Throughout the day notice your transformative process via nature, words and visual art.

A variety of mixed media art supplies and watercolor paper will be provided. If you wish, bring your personal journal, special magazines, photos, or personal items for your collage. Please bring your lunch and beverages. All Qigong and art levels welcome.

Registration: Point Reyes National Seashore Association
Location: Red Barn Classroom 75 Bear Valley Road, Pt. Reyes Station, CA

TOP OF PAGE