Testimonials - Real Benifits from Real People

San Diego June 2006
The Weeklong Seminar Testimonials

Testimonials from Week One

Myung O., 27, Financial Advisor - Watertown, MA

“It was interesting to see practitioners, high level and low level, from all across the country and all walks of life. I think I was afraid of walking the Moo Doe line because I could not see the road ahead clearly. After speaking to many different practitioners, however, at least the road already traveled is clear. There are unknowns still but I have more confidence now after speaking with others that have more knowledge than I do.”

Sheila G., 38, Assistant to the Former Prime Minister of Canada - 2nd Degree Instructor - Watertown, MA

“The setting her in Warner Springs, along with the movement, herbal products and equipment have made this the most beneficial weeklong I have ever attended. I’m deeply grateful to Chong Su Nim and Oom Yung Doe for care, skill and effort that has gone into it.”

Erin H., School Owner- 2nd Degree Instructor - Madison, WI

“The 2006 Weeklong Seminar has been one of my strongest training experiences so far. The movement, environment, and herbs worked so quickly to remove negative and further balance my condition. I have had problems with my stomach in the past, which I have been balancing with the tea and bath herb. It’s been healing, but during the seminar most mornings I would feel sick. At some points, it was extremely challenging to continue to move, but I’ve been through previous weeklong seminars before and knew that this was part of releasing negative, helping me to heal. So I pushed through and after movement and meditation the pain and discomfort would release and I would be filled with energy in the afternoon. The compassion and care from the higher belt Instructors is amazing. They were constantly teaching us, whether through movement or incredibly meaningful conversations. This year, due to the environment of Warner Springs, I was able to achieve a much deeper level of meditation, which led to a great feeling of peace. As always, weeklong inspires an incredible bond of family that reaches all who attend.”

Chris G., DJ - 1st Degree - Winter Springs, FL

“My 2006 Weeklong experience was an incredible experience. My body was challenged this year and my mind held strong. I felt my body release toxins that had been causing pain. I also felt a complete calmness at the completion of the weeklong. I will always continue to attend Moo Doe Weeklong Seminars.”

John M. - 1st Degree - Winter Springs, FL

“Feeling more peace within. Feeling more overall body strength. Wonderful experience.”

Lewathan A., 38, Accountant - 2nd Degree Assistant Instructor - Boston, MA

“What I have gained the most from this weeklong is removing the negative mentally and physically. The location had high energy and the movements were balanced so I felt stronger and better with each passing day. The teaching team focused a lot on removing the negative and I made progress towards this through meditation and movement. The teaching team was very generous answering any questions we had and were very positive. I enjoyed meeting other students and instructors. I wish I had attended a weeklong seminar sooner.”

Aaron G., Bartender - 6th Section - Seattle, WA

“The whole experience of the weeklong from the movement all the way down to the interaction between students and instructors has been phenomenal. Not only have I had the chance to look at myself at a deeper level, but others have too. This individual and group experience is special because we are all working to achieve better lives through our training.”

Michael M., 21, Independent Business Owner - 5th Section - Wauwatosa, WI

“This weeklong seminar has taught me why Moo Doe is mind, body and spirit training. I am beginning to experience my mind, body and spirit through the forms. This knowledge makes me feel new as a person and very excited for the years to come. I feel like my training in Moo Doe is like a big unopened present, where the best is yet to come. I don’t know any other way to develop such peace and prosperity.”

Mark W. - 6th Section - Wauwatosa, WI

“I was worried coming in that five straight days of training would be too much to take for my body. However, I found just the opposite to be true. The training has been so well structured and prepared; I have noticed my strength increase dramatically each day. I give my sincere thanks to Chong Su Nim and higher belts for all of the personal attention they give in preparing for this training.”

Lindsey B. - 5th Section - Winter Springs, FL

“The environment was incredible. Practicing outside all week was refreshing. I felt Nae Gong while practicing and even eating outside and walking to and from the practice area. My entire body felt much stronger by the end of the week. The teaching team helped not only by teaching and correcting movement but by passing principle through conversations that will help me grow mentally and emotionally.”

Paul T., Retired Army Major - 1st Degree Assistant Instructor - Squirrel Hill, PA

“I feel that the weeklong seminar ahs been the strongest and concentrated portion of my training so far. The opportunity to get into eight new forms, practice them for five straight days, and receive corrections from higher belts was very strong and I know that it will greatly improve my ability to move with more speed and power. I also thought that the meditation was very intense. After Bagwa Walking my ability to get into a deep meditation increased and it felt like my mind opened and that I was breathing from the top of my head.”

Michael J. - 3rd Section - Largo, FL

“During the weeklong seminar in 2006 I had an opportunity to speak with Asst Head Nat Inst Sampson. When I introduced myself to him he reached down and held my fingers on both of my hands and then asked if I had any circulation problems. A month and a half to two months ago I had a seizure. We then had a conversation about taking care of myself. I was completely amazed that he was able to tell that just from touching my hands.”


Matthew G. - 1st Degree - Winter Springs, FL

“I have been functioning with little sleep for the past 9 weeks and my right hand was in pain from so much computer work. When I started training and eating at the weeklong, I started feeling better. I gained more energy each day and the pain in my hand went away.”

Wayne L., Deputy Sheriff - 2nd Degree Instructor - Winter Springs, FL

“Calmness- I have reached a sense of calmness that allowed me to absorb the movement faster and deeper than any Sae Gae or Weeklong before. I contribute this to the herbal extracts and the location.”

Nate P., School Owner - 1st Degree Assistant Instructor - Largo, FL

“The positive effects of this year’s weeklong will be remembered for a long time. The sense of family and teamwork I feel resonated throughout every individual. This connectedness, this bond I feel will last for years to come and longer. Within myself, I have gained not only a family, but also a clearer vision of myself; an understanding that I plan to build upon. Through this journey I hope to bring peace and balance within my life, some of which I have started to feel through the knowledge and movement passed this week. At this time I have been to 4 weeklong seminars and have felt tremendous benefits from each. However, this year’s weeklong I believe has allowed me to “tap in” to myself more than any other year. This I feel has moved me further forward than I could have ever expected.”

David S. - 1st Degree - Winter Springs, FL

“The weeklong removed a lot of negative. I felt more harmonized. I seemed to pick up movement faster with less mental effort. The mountainous environment was very conducive to metal, physical and spiritual growth. I experienced and increased sense of well being and peace. I experienced a breakthrough in meditation. I could visualize an aura of colors, such as blues, greens, reds, yellow-green and purple. The higher belts passed on their priceless wisdom, strength, and hope to all who participated on this weeklong.”


Justin G., 21, College Student - 5th Section - Watertown, MA

“By coming to this year’s weeklong, I have not only improved my physical and mental condition, through training I have arrived at a much clearer notion of the direction in which I wish to take my life. My time spent conversing with higher belts was incredibly beneficial as they were willing to share and pass down Moo Doe principles which helped me to make better sense of the crossroad I found myself in. Every portion of the weeklong worked harmoniously together for a more complete purification of internal toxins from the movement, to the location, to the herbal tea and even the sequence in which they were. I know very well that I will face stress and challenges when I return home to Boston, just as they were there when I left. But I am confident that I can meet those stresses more capably having gone through such a purification process, and attaining a better state of mental clarity than I had when I left. I am very grateful to the International Teaching team for their time, patience and genuine interest in students. Thank you Chong Su Nim.”


Nimrod W., 32, Finance/Marketing - 1st Degree - Somerville, MA

“The weeklong experience is akin to nature’s cycle of birth, death and re-birth. Physically, emotionally and mentally I felt challenged to a point where I felt totally lost, confused, angry and frustrated. As the process continued, however, I have begun to find some clarity, not the least of which is my movements. I always find it so amazing how a certain conversation or adjustment from higher belts helps expedite the process. Although I don’t yet feel entirely reborn, I do believe that I’ve already taken steps forward on a new path in pursuit of optimal health, both physical and mental. Finally, I’m thoroughly impressed with how much thought and detail go into preparing and orchestrating the weeklong. I hope to return next summer. Thank you.”


Yasuko G. - 3rd Section - Bellevue, WA

“I worried a lot about surviving 5 days of practice, 3 hours in the morning and 3 hours in the afternoon. I only practice at school 3 times a week, one hour each time. Even with my instructor’s encouragement, I did not have a confidence that I can do 5 days. But it is Friday now, and I am still out in the field, trying to get better in sequences and positions. It is a surprise. I now should have more confidence in myself mentally and physically. Because of the slow regeneration of my body, the weakness of my body clearly appeared: pain in joints. Parts that I have been neglecting to care are now in front of my face. Having pain is not fun, but if I think about it as a starting point, then I can move on. The seminar provided me the opportunity to face the issues with my body without running away. Meeting with a group of people who have the same goals- being well and caring for others- is exactly the same as receiving power. Due to my practice time at school, I do not see many students. They indeed have the will to be better in their lives, but about 60 students and instructors together… it is a power. I feel that I participated in a part of the greatness. It is a gift. I would like to thank all instructors. They are very kind and caring. They patiently listen to my problems and provide suggestions and solutions. They recognize my existence by acknowledging that I am here, and knowing and pronouncing my name right. They teach me the sequences and reasons behind movements, which make me interested to do more. Now I shall not only think what I should do, but I shall do what I received. It is the only way to show my appreciation to those who care about me. Thank you.”

Guy R., Doctor - 6th Section - Wauwatosa, WI

“Having attended the 2005 weeklong seminar, I had some knowledge of what to expect. What I didn’t expect, however, was how much my own condition had changed, both mentally and physically. Physically I found myself stronger and better prepared for what I knew would be a rigorous test. It turned out to be exactly that. Within the first 15 minutes of Pal Gae Kwon Gong Bope, I was already drenched. I knew that benefits would come and I pushed through the discomfort. The International Teaching team knows each person’s strengths and weaknesses and demonstrates them and encouraged you to work to your highest level. I was delighted when one of the higher belts commented that he had seen great improvement in my movements since last year. This will be greatly needed when I test for my 1st Degree. Mentally, the recent past has been a challenge due to personal concerns that have disrupted my concentration and focus. None of that mattered once I entered Warner Springs on my 41st birthday. Everything started to become more crystal clear and with the encouragement of higher belts, I was able to focus on my highest performance. Not only that, but I picked up movement more quickly and actually have retained it. I didn’t have to struggle for three days just to understand 50-70% of the sequence. Now I feel like I can concentrate on doing it correctly. The weekend seminar is more than just physical training. I needed the meditation and Bagwa as much as I needed the self-defense. It has been a very balanced week physically, mentally, and spiritually. I would like to thank all of my instructors, who work so hard not only in their travels, but especially with this seminar, where their diligence and dedication help us reach our highest potential. Most of all, I would like to thank Grandmaster for making this possible, by passing on his knowledge and his wisdom and establishing our Moo Doe line. It is a privilege to be part of Oom Yung Doe.”


Kay H. - 6th Section - Wauwatosa, WI

“Wow! This weeklong provided me with more opportunity to learn principle and movement from grandmaster thru higher belts. Breathing, “going with” and momentum are finally coming together after 2 years of training. My external strength is coming up so that I was able to make a full 360-degree step around turn without hesitation in the Pu Chae sequence. My endurance is stronger and I took fewer breaks and recovery overnight was possible. As the day progressed I got stronger and more calm/focused. Meditation was possible and I had several experiences with visual of animals, mountains, horses, and color visuals of students getting ready for practice. The site, higher belts, camaraderie with fellow students all came together for a great week. Thank you Grandmaster for the opportunity to learn such strong movements. Thank you for higher belts and all instructors. Thank you for students. All of us are on the Moo Doe path.”

Testimonials from Week Two

Derek W. - 34, Library Technician - 4th Section, MN

Practicing several forms for several hours each day this week was extremely difficult. This difficulty challenged me by trying to keep my focus on the instruction of the forms and proper breathing. By practicing these forms along with proper breath, my body feels tired but my mind is alert which has allowed me to require less sleep.


Courtney K. - 24, Domestic Violence Outreach Educator - 2nd Section, MA

The weeklong seminar has been a refreshing experience. Learning the different forms in a natural environment has been challenging but enjoyable. Of note, my sinuses have cleared this week which has been a dramatic change from my constant state of congestion and difficulty breathing. As a result of my training this week, I am breathing better which has helped me to feel better overall. The tea, herbs, and equipment have been helpful in enhancing my practice as well. This week has been invaluable in building my physical, mental, and spiritual condition.


Ben Z. - 24, Assistant Head Instructor - 3rd degree, MA

The 2006 Weeklong Seminar was an extraordinary experience. The physical and mental benefits to both instructors and students were overwhelming, while the compassion and camaraderie between practitioners left me deeply moved.


Lee S. - 46, Surgical Technician - 6th Section, FL

The first benefit I received is the energy from the environment which helped to revitalize me. The training was consistently challenging. There were areas of my body that were re-awakened to new heights and challenges. Just as rewarding was the camaraderie and the sense of working together as one. This was truly a great experience and I look forward to returning next year. Thank you to Grandmaster and the International Level Teaching team.


Nicholas W. - 24, Sound Designer - 5th Section, MA

There were some obvious benefits from this weeklong that I shared with other students. The forms I practiced left me feeling very calm. The personal adjustments and time spent with such highly qualified instructors is something everyone should experience. There were a few movements I was "stuck" on, however, the explanations from Higher Belts were always so clear. I felt comfortable with the sequences and was able to learn the forms quickly because of direction from Higher Belts.

An even greater benefit was to be able to spend time with Higher Belts. At the beginning of the weeklong, there was much talk about seeing the invisible and spirituality. I felt a little overwhelmed as I did not feel open to these aspects. When I could meditate or attempted to figure out my thoughts on the invisible, everything became cloudy. I starting feeling a little guilty about this as if I was cheating my practice because I didn't know where I stood on these issues. After a conversation with a Head National Instructor, I began to understand the principle of "knowing one's self" which helped me to see the direction my practice more clearly. As my first step is to see my true self more clearly, this conversation reminded me of the main reason why I practice. The manner in which Higher Belts can see where you are standing and how they so clearly explain where you need to go is truly remarkable.


Eli S. - 26, Instructor - 2nd Degree, WA

When I arrived at this year's weeklong seminar, I felt as though I was carrying a heavy load of stress and anxiety that I had accumulated from my daily life. After several days of practice, I not only felt as though that weight had been lifted from my shoulders, but that I have positively improved my mental focus and concentration to better handle the situations that brought about my daily negativity. I also feel that I have been taught a way to better understand myself, mentally and physically, and also what I need to practice, whether it is movement or meditation, to bring about this release. I would like to thank Grandmaster "Iron" Kim and the International Level Teaching Team for this opportunity to better understand how to bring about positive changes and improve the quality of my life through Traditional Moo Doe.


Brian M., School Owner - 46, Assistant Head Instructor - 3rd Degree, CA

I have been attending the weeklong seminar since 2001 and I have seen distinct differences in every weeklong. It seems to me that the weeklong seminars, since I have been attending, started with more physical movements and have gone more towards the spiritual aspects. This year's weeklong was clearly more towards the spiritual, you could see it in students' faces. Some students I have talked with have had profound experiences through the meditation. I have always had difficulty getting comfortable during meditation because sitting in a cross legged position has been challenging on my hips. This year, during the meditation, I felt a "pop" in my hip and it felt like my hips popped into place because for the first time I could sit cross-legged comfortably for an extended period of time.

I have always looked for a deeper meaning in my life and I always see it when I am around Higher Belts. This year I had the opportunity to meet with Grandmaster and he encouraged us to look beyond what we think we can do and that spiritual enlightenment was within our grasp. I would like to thank Grandmaster and Higher Belts for providing us with a way to achieve a more balanced life and the tools to show others that can achieve these qualities as well.


Colin O. - 28, University Teaching Assistant - 2nd Degree Assistant Instructor, PA

This year's weeklong seminar was amazing. The weeklong has convinced me that this is the fastest way to meet my training goals and to continue to challenge myself with new ones. This week has also reinforced my belief that this training is very deep and can provide incredible benefits to anyone who practices. All of the students and instructors from Pittsburgh felt like new people as a result of this weeklong. I am very thankful to Grandmaster and the International Level Teaching Team for all of the benefits I have seen over the course of this week.


Daniel P. - 28, Medical Student - 2nd Degree Instructor, MA

This year's weeklong seminar has helped me to see my life more clearly and where I would like to be in the coming years. The combination of the environment, the movement, the herbs, and the tea has allowed me to flush my mind and body of its toxins and bring energy into by body. Every weeklong I have attended has left me feeling stronger which has allowed me to live more comfortably on a daily basis. I know that I have continued to receive these tremendous benefits from this week's training.


Mike R. - 35, Software Engineer - 2nd Degree Instructor, School Owner, WA

The week was another great weeklong. I felt challenged to push myself harder than last year's weeklong. The environment has been so peaceful and yet full of energy. I will never miss a weeklong as it is like 6 Sae Gae Moo Doe Seminars all in one week.


Lee L. - 43, Vice President of Engineering - 1st Degree, MA

Over the last 6 months, I have thrown my back out twice and my neck once. With the training I received prior to this year's weeklong, I felt like my back was stable but was still sore from the first day of this week's training. Since that first day, however, my back has consistently improved which has motivated me to continue practicing these movements so that I can completely eradicate my back problems.


Rob M., 50 - 1st Degree, WA

I thoroughly enjoyed this year's weeklong. The location and the movements were great. It came at a perfect time for me because I had started to lose focus with my training, but now after this weeklong, I feel revitalized and I look forward to continuing to practice everything I have learned this week.


Michal F. - 44, Dentist - 1st Degree, School Owner, WA

Happiness is the best agent for purification -- this is one of the objectives I have experienced from this year's weeklong seminar. I had an opportunity to meet Grandmaster and to listen to his wisdom. It was an experience that opened my mind and cleared the questions that I had. I feel great and challenged and I feel I have learned a lot about myself as a result.


Karen S. - 54, High School Administrator - 5th Section, WA

This was my first weeklong seminar and my father who had been ill had passed away on the first day of this seminar. I had been helping my father for about 3 months and during this time of intense stress, I was able to keep my focus. While I felt certain emotions, I was able to not let them get in the way of making good solid decisions. One of my goals for starting to train was to improve my focus. Through my training, I feel I have improved my ability to stay calm, along with feeling physically healthy. This is a great testament to the clarity of mind that I have gained through my training.


Don M. - 47, Fire Lieutenant - 1st Degree, MA

I found myself moving better this year as well as learning and retaining most of the movements with greater ease. I left myself go and did not try to force the movements which helped me to move more naturally. This year's weeklong seminar has been very well organized. Focusing on circular movements and certain blocks has helped me to build a very strong mid section. I am looking forward to practicing these forms during the next year.


Jay P. - 53, Photographer - 1st Degree, MA

It has been a very positive week. By gradually progressing into the forms, I have been better able to absorb them. After the first day, a lot of tension and negativity melted away only to be replaced with positive energy. As I practice, my ability will increase and my condition will improve. I appreciate the care and patient guidance of Higher Belts who passed on Grandmaster's knowledge during this past week.


Chante T. - 54, Legal Secretary - 6th Section, WA

My experience from this year's weeklong has motivated me to keep precutting Traditional Moo Doe in order to change my life for the better. It is not an easy thing to do, but I can see it is well worth it.


Yuliya H. - 41, Massage Therapist - 3rd Section, WA

I am very happy that I made it to this year's weeklong and I hope I will return next year. It was a great experience in my life to practice Traditional Moo Doe movements all day in this type of environment. Thank you Grandmaster and the International Level Teaching Team for providing this opportunity.


Louisa C. - 63, Nurse - 5th Section, WA

At first, I had reservations whether I would be able to handle higher level forms because of my age and condition. The support and guidance from the National Instructors helped me tremendously. By the end of the week, my flexibility had improved as well as gaining new insight into myself through meditation. I especially benefited from movement designed to release negativity and recaptured a peacefulness that is so often lost in my everyday life. Thank you Grandmaster and the International Level Teaching team.


Greg M. - 37, Printer, Real Estate Broker - 1st Degree Assistant Instructor, FL

Due to my schedule, I was only able to attend 2 days of this year's weeklong seminar. I knew when I had arrived for the seminar in Warner Springs that I did not want to leave. The energy from the environment was incredible. Training with instructors and students around the country has been absolutely powerful. I am already looking forward to next year's training.


Michael R. - 47, Taxi Driver - 5th Section, MN

I trained 20 years ago and it was a great opportunity to be trained by the International Level Teaching team. I believe the depth of the forms taught will add time and quality to my life. The meditation will enable me to calm my mind and body and to purify myself from the stress and negativity I encounter daily. Thank you Grandmaster and the International Level Teaching Team.


Mark S. - 38, Teacher - 2nd Degree Assistant Instructor, PA

The movements taught at the 2006 Weeklong Seminar were very challenging both physically and mentally. I enjoyed the balance of physical movements along with the meditation. Higher Belts were patient with me and took extra time to answer my questions. After 3 days of training, I already feel that I have gained more skill and ability. The surroundings at Warner Springs were also a strong environment to practice in.


Jeff M, 31 - 1st Degree, PA

The 2006 weeklong seminar was incredible. After just 3 days I felt a great increase of energy. Waking early in the morning and helping setup breakfast through a day full of movement and then soaking at night outside in the hot springs left me feeling energized. The location was conducive to the movements taught and a wonderful place to be. I will not soon forget meditating in front of mountains or smelling the hot springs in the morning as I walked to practice. I was sad to leave. I am thankful to Grandmaster and to Higher Belts for all that comprises the weeklong seminar.


Irina B - 1st Degree, WA

Last year, after we left Warner Springs Ranch, I knew that I would no miss the opportunity to spend another week in this unique place. Learning new movements with great instructors during the weeklong seminar is wonderful. The healing power of hot springs available at the ranch helps us to recover after long days of practicing. Some of the movements we are practicing this time are familiar to us, but in stronger versions. It helped me to concentrate on details without struggling with a new sequence. All movements are balanced really well through the training day. Even feeling tired and sore after every lesson, I still have the energy and will to continue. I’m glad that this year we are learning a new sequence for the Pu Chae – one of my favorite weapons.
The seminar gave me good motivation for my practice over the next several months. I really appreciate the help and words of wisdom that I received from higher belt instructors.