Sharon Smith has dedicated 45 years to practicing Qigong, Tai Chi, and other Taoist spiritual and healing arts and has taught them for 40 years—remarkably, without appearing nearly old enough for such extensive experience. In 1981, she became one of Grandmaster Mantak Chia’s first Western students, during a time when few people even heard of Qigong. She now holds senior instructor certification within Mantak Chia’s Universal Healing Tao system and is also certified to teach Sheng Zhen Gong by Master Li Junfeng. Additionally, she has studied with numerous Taoist masters in both healing arts and philosophy. However, she is perhaps best known globally for her role in promoting these healing arts. Over the years, Sharon has organized many workshops and retreats, including the Global Qigong Summit sponsored by the Shift Network. In 2023, she co-organized the “Be Like Water” retreat, which attendees described as magical. After taking time to rest and recharge, she is now collaborating with Sifu Rachel Santos on their next retreat, “Shedding,” set to take place January 29 – February 4, 2025, at a private resort in Palenque, Mexico.
Shedding Qigong Exercises
In a recent interview, Sharon explained how the concept for the Shedding Retreat emerged organically. This retreat has some similarities with the 2023 retreat: nine instructors (Sifus Sharon Smith, Jamee Culbertson, Marie Favorito, Rachel Santos, Yolanda Kelly, Katheryn Davis, Daria Fain, Julia Kulakova, and herself) will return, with the addition of Deborah Davis. They will lead participants through various Qigong exercises inspired by the metaphor of snakes shedding their skins, symbolizing physical and emotional detoxification followed by revitalization and rejuvenation. The exercises are suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners, and both men and women are welcome to join.
The retreat’s structured program includes daily 2.5–3 hour lessons led by experienced instructors, balanced with ample free time for self-reflection, reading, swimming, massage, or self-practice in the beautiful surroundings of the Maya Bell resort. Instructors may also offer spontaneous learning opportunities outside scheduled sessions. Meals will focus on taste, nutrition, and local flavors. While the retreat maintains the restorative spirit of the previous year, there are several differences. The landscape of Palenque in southern Mexico, with its lush jungle setting and proximity to ancient Maya ruins, is entirely unique. Participants will have three excursions to explore the history and culture of Mayan culture. Maya Bell resort provides secluded, cozy accommodations surrounded by nature, offering a sanctuary of tranquility and vibrant wood energy. There will also be more meditation sessions than at the previous retreat.
Forest Bathing
In Japan and other Asian countries, “shinrin-yoku” or “forest bathing” is a revered health practice. By immersing themselves in forests, people inhale Phytoncides—natural antimicrobial compounds produced by trees to defend against harmful microorganisms, insects, and animals. This concept was first discovered by Russian scientist Boris P. Tokin and later expanded by Dr. Qing Li, a prominent immunologist from Nippon Medical School in Tokyo. Dr. Li’s research has shown that spending time in forest environments boosts immune function, increasing natural killer (NK) cell activity, which helps the body fend off viruses and even cancer cells. Additionally, forest bathing reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and improves mental well-being. Dr. Li’s book, “Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness“, has made this practice popular worldwide, highlighting the benefits of nature therapy for both physical and mental health.
In the tropical rainforests surrounding Palenque, many plants have developed similar defense mechanisms and produce an abundance of Phytoncides. Participants of the 2025 Shedding Retreat will have the unique opportunity to enhance their immune systems through deep, mindful breathing in this natural setting.
Your articles never fail to captivate me. Each one is a testament to your expertise and dedication to your craft. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with the world.
Your comment really humbles me. I will do my best and not to disappoint you ever. At the same time, I always welcome suggestions and critiques. — Violet
Over the last couple of years, there’s been a rise in “immune-boosting” foods, supplements AND PRACTICES. This term crops up in supermarket aisles and health campaigns. But is it based on science, or is it just clever marketing?
Dr. Jenna Macciochi — author, health coach, and Senior Lecturer in Immunology at The University of Sussex — has explained why our immune system should be balanced, not boosted.
Charles, you have a very interesting questions. I need to find out more on it. — Violet
Jean Sullivan http://www.vitalfoodtherapy.com/, RDN and LD, is a nutritionist and expert of using food for therapy. I related your question and here is her answer: “What a wonderful question!
I often advocate for clients, enthusiastically to notice the difference between the food industry marketing grabs vs foods & products they may need along their health journey.
“Immune boosting” is quite a positively charged advertising statement, yet often confusing. Food claims can justify this by saying low levels need to be “boosted” to balance common nutrient deficiencies. But does everyone need the boost of such products? Good chances the answer is ‘no’, when adopting healthy lifestyle habits.
Education around these food & supplemental products comes with a bit of caution as well, since some supplemental products come with risk of contamination, as well as additional fillers, thickeners, and preservatives that can be detrimental to gut health and immune function.
Currently, in my practice nutritional deficiencies are identified and treated with fresh food meal planning and quality nutrient supplementation when needed.
The CDC and WHO included Vitamins A & D, Zinc, B12(cobalamin), Iron and Iodine as prevalent nutrient deficiencies as of 2024 reports. Food companies, especially functional food products(designed with chemically isolated or synthetic molecules) will capitalize on these statistics.
It’s important to find clinical providers that assess each client’s nutritional status and provide an individualized nutrition plan based on their deficiencies and symptoms, then focus on meal planning with fresh nutrient rich foods and supplementing with quality vitamin & mineral products to bring very low levels up to functional ranges.
Balance is such an important word, isn’t it?!
Often folks find me, seeking a “weight loss” plan and I say, “I don’t specialize in weight loss! I support metabolic balance!”.
This means holistic approaches to healing and hence, weight measures may rise or fall to that balanced place of optimal functioning.
Addressing each unique lifestyle pattern that is “too much or too little” begins a true path toward greater awareness, peace, and health!
With love & peace,
Jean”