About Marc Andonian, PhD

I am a PhD exercise physiologist and gerontologist by training, with a long career as a business technology executive (now retired) and an active executive and life coach. Across my career and avocations, my focus has been helping people become their best—personally, professionally, and in the way they move through the world.

My Tai Chi path has been shaped by many generous teachers. I have studied Yangjia Michuan Taijiquan and the Gold Mountain System (Jin Shan Pai) Daoist tradition with senior students of Master Wang Yen‑Nien, including Julia Fairchild, Dr. Bede Bidlack, and Scott Rodell. I’ve learned Taijiquan theory from Dr. Yang, Jwing‑Ming, trained in Tai Chi applications, principles, and multiple Qigong systems with Dr. Christopher Viggiano, and studied additional Tai Chi and Qigong forms through Jing Shan Tang. More recently, my focus has been on the Tai Chi for Health programs of Dr. Paul Lam, along with certifications from the Silver Lotus Training Institute, studying with Susan Hamadock, Marianne Walch, Janet DefeoJanet DeFeo. I have also been honored with an honorary black belt from the Society of Black Belts of America for service to the Tai Chi community.

I am a member instructor with the Tai Chi for Health Institute, and the United StatesTai Chi Community. I am a co-founder former board member of the Taijiquan Enthusiasts Association.

Through all of this, I consider myself a perpetual student first—someone walking the same road as my students, simply a few steps ahead. My teaching is guided by the story of the Dao symbol: we gather treasures from heaven (tian), earth (di), and humanity (ren), and we pass them forward with clarity, kindness, and respect.

I am also the author of several books including The Three Lenses - How to See Clearly, Decide Wisely, and Live with Integrity.