AJAllen

Who We Are

503 222-2289

A.J. Allen

Diamond Essence is an umbrella organization under which I teach others and participate in my own evolution as a teacher, student, and traveler on the path to Enlightenment. This organization embodies the interactive elements of the Tai Chi and Arica Schools, for the Benefit of All.

I have studied Tai Chi since 1975, and have been teaching it since 1988. In 1975, I initiated studying with the Arica Institute, and began teaching in 1982. My good fortune has been to participate in a teaching partnership for both schools with Patrik Donahue since 1982.

My academic background includes an undergraduate degree in English/French and a graduate degree in Public Health Planning and Administration. My work career has spanned self-employment, private/nonprofit and federal/state governmental agencies. Most recently, I have been a health services planner/project manager for the US Department of Veterans Affairs. I retired from government service in 2009.

In addition to continuing with Tai Chi teaching, I also bike regularly and cultivate my backyard garden.