Dahn yoga is a Korean system founded by Ilchi Lee which most closely resembles non-violent martial arts such as qi gong. Through the practice of simple exercises of the brain and body, Dahn yoga claims to enhance the mind body connection, also known as Brain Education. Based in Oriental Medicine, it includes asana like exercises and meditation elements. The practice is meant to lower stress levels, release tension, and improve quality of life. The main focus of the practice is to use your brain well, which includes working with energy in the body and mind in classes like “meridian stretching.” Many aspects of this “yoga” more closely resemble eastern martial arts rather than traditional yoga.
What classifies it as “yoga” as opposed to a martial art or eastern meditative practice is somewhat unclear. I didn’t find any references to classical yoga in Dahn. Perhaps it is because the stretching and breathing exercises have similarities to traditional asana and pranayama, or perhaps like many organizations and individuals who use “yoga” to define their practice, it is simply associating itself with the popular “trend.” The aspects that I look for in a yoga experience, though, are no where to be found. Not to say that this invalidates Dahn as a practice, but if you believe so strongly in the outcome of the practice, why depend on the word yoga to draw an audience. Instead, call it what it is, whether that be martial arts or otherwise, and trust what is being offered through the practice will draw the practitioners.
As a practitioner, student and teacher of the practice and science of yoga, taking a system and naming it yoga really rubs me the wrong way. There is a growing community of like minded yogis who are working hard to keep the spark of yoga alive amidst all of the convolutions of the traditional practice. Many yoga teachers and practitioners are working hard to clear away the rubble of the yoga explosion and return to the foundation of the practice. It becomes difficult and confusing to newcomers and seasoned practitioners alike when they are inundated with hundreds of different styles and systems, many of which aren’t yoga at all.
But, for whatever reason, the Dahn system defines itself as yoga, and it is making claims that it can heal the physical and mental bodies, alleviate ailments, and create a harmonious life by choosing the path of Dahn yoga. Like other systems that claim personal revolution and healing, the Dahn system is a members only club, so don’t expect the secrets to be revealed until you pay your dues, literally. And, if you do, be aware that there are many non-yogic aspects to the Dahn system, which have been and continually are being addressed by those “members” who are speaking out.
Those who are pressing charges against the organization allege that the claims of a harmonious life are far from the reality. Claimants are accusing the organization of everything from fraud to sexual assault. San Francisco resident, Meredith Potter, says that she was expected to work exceptionally long hours without proper compensation as well as procure large sums of money for the organization.
This is not the first time the Dahn organization has been on the receiving end of accusations. In 2006, the family of Julia Siverls filed a wrongful death suit against the organization after she died of dehydration while training to become a Dahn master. And, in 2002, a former Dahn employee filed a civil lawsuit in Alameda County, California for Unfair Business Practices and Undue Influence. The goal of Dahn yoga “enlightening 100 million earth humans by 2010” as professed by Lee seems to have hit a snag at the moment, but many more people continue to believe in its powers than in its faults.
Have you ever practiced Dahn yoga? What is your experience?
22 Comments
Hello Kelly,
Thank you for your article. Where did you study Dahn? I have been practicing Dahn for more then five years and I am very happy to open a dialogue with you about it.
I remember an ashtanga teacher who I studied with who had often referred to yoga as the union of body and mind. I believe that yoga as well as Dahn are hard to define with words. Rather, I appreciate the beauty and infiniteness that is inside of us. It is how I grow through and use my practice which is important to me.
Anyway, I am really happy with Dahn, and I am having a great experience.
Namaste
Thank you for your article. Where did you study Dahn? I have been practicing Dahn for more then five years and I am very happy to open a dialogue with you about it.
I remember an ashtanga teacher who I studied with who had often referred to yoga as the union of body and mind. I believe that yoga as well as Dahn are hard to define with words. Rather, I appreciate the beauty and infiniteness that is inside of us. It is how I grow through and use my practice which is important to me.
Anyway, I am really happy with Dahn, and I am having a great experience.
Namaste
1
July 09, 2009
Thanks for your comments. I have not studied Dahn. My opinion came only from the research I've done independently. In many ways, yoga can be distilled to a practice that joins the body and mind, but it also has a solid foundation of philosophy (Ashtanga Yoga means the 8-limbs of Yoga), and teachings behind it. Just as martial arts often seeks the same goal, union of body and mind, but is supported by a different foundation, so do many practices seek the same goal, but aren't necessarily "yoga." It would be quite a stretch for Karate or Kung Fu to be called yoga, since it is derived from ancient Oriental practices and teachings. In the same way, I think that it is a misnomer for Dahn to be called "yoga," since it is derived from a different set of philosophical and physical practices. Maybe the only way to know for sure, is for me to attend a class.
2
July 09, 2009
I agree with you that the suffix yoga is not an entirely accurate word to describe the Dahn practice. The name Yoga became associated with Dahn when Dahn came to the United States. It was used as the closest word that American people would be able recognize that describes the practice.
However, as I stated before, I also believe that it is not entirely inaccurate. Yoga has become more then just a tradition, it has a broader meaning that can be used to describe many different types of mind body union practices such as Tao yoga and taoist yoga which are also coming for eastern culture. Someone could accurately refer the breathing, stretching or meditation that they do on their own in the privacy of their own home as yoga. Referring to the prefix name will help preserve the tradition such as has been done in Tai Chi (Which roughly translates to mean Big Ultimate,) for example Chen Tai Chi or Tai Chi Chaun.
In some cases, even the traditional forms of yoga being taught are often watered down to the point of being simply exercise. However, in my experience, Dahn has always been authentic.
Dahn was originally called DahnHak which translates roughly to "the study of accumulated life force." It is passed down through the ShinSunDo, which is sometime also referred to as Sundo, tradition from ancient teachers and teachings. Perhaps the practice will eventually drop the suffix yoga.
Either way the practice itself is a powerful tool for physical health, mental wellness, energetic balance, and spiritual development. If you do get a chance I would recommend trying it out. Center locations are available at dahyoga.com.
Chunjikiun (Heaven and Earth Energy)
However, as I stated before, I also believe that it is not entirely inaccurate. Yoga has become more then just a tradition, it has a broader meaning that can be used to describe many different types of mind body union practices such as Tao yoga and taoist yoga which are also coming for eastern culture. Someone could accurately refer the breathing, stretching or meditation that they do on their own in the privacy of their own home as yoga. Referring to the prefix name will help preserve the tradition such as has been done in Tai Chi (Which roughly translates to mean Big Ultimate,) for example Chen Tai Chi or Tai Chi Chaun.
In some cases, even the traditional forms of yoga being taught are often watered down to the point of being simply exercise. However, in my experience, Dahn has always been authentic.
Dahn was originally called DahnHak which translates roughly to "the study of accumulated life force." It is passed down through the ShinSunDo, which is sometime also referred to as Sundo, tradition from ancient teachers and teachings. Perhaps the practice will eventually drop the suffix yoga.
Either way the practice itself is a powerful tool for physical health, mental wellness, energetic balance, and spiritual development. If you do get a chance I would recommend trying it out. Center locations are available at dahyoga.com.
Chunjikiun (Heaven and Earth Energy)
3
July 09, 2009
Let's be clear and honest here, DahnHak is NOT yoga. It has nothing to do with yoga. Its roots do not come from yoga.
I do agree that the word yoga has been used inaccurately in labeling other practices, but this does not make calling the practice of DahnHak yoga right, acceptable or justified. As Healthybodyhappyheart noted, the name was changed to market Dhan to Americans, to make this practice sound safe and familiar. And with these continuing controversies with Dahn "yoga" it is potentially distorting and soiling the true teachings and practices of yoga. At the very least, it confuses the general public as to what true yoga is. Calling the DahnHak practice yoga is just plain dishonest and unethical.
I do agree that the word yoga has been used inaccurately in labeling other practices, but this does not make calling the practice of DahnHak yoga right, acceptable or justified. As Healthybodyhappyheart noted, the name was changed to market Dhan to Americans, to make this practice sound safe and familiar. And with these continuing controversies with Dahn "yoga" it is potentially distorting and soiling the true teachings and practices of yoga. At the very least, it confuses the general public as to what true yoga is. Calling the DahnHak practice yoga is just plain dishonest and unethical.
4
July 10, 2009
Healthybodyhappyheart said: "Dahn was originally called DahnHak which translates roughly to "the study of accumulated life force." It is passed down through the ShinSunDo, which is sometime also referred to as Sundo, tradition from ancient teachers and teachings."
Seems the antiquity of Sundo's lineage is based on Korean mythology, folklore, and Korean 13th century scripture, which goes the same for Ilchi Lee's Dahnhak. Many Koreans believe the nationalist sentiment that the entire Korean race descend from Tangun, the son of a god and a bear who the god helped become a woman.
I read that Sundo was made popular in the 60's in Korea by a man who claimed to have lived in the mountains for decades under a teacher who told him to spread the practice. He founded "Kooksundo," still going on today. Ilchi Lee then said in the 80's that he spent 21 days in the mountains without food, water, or sleep (which would break more than one record) before becoming enlightened to bring modernized dahnhak exercises to the people. (He had trained in Taekwondo.) Both Kooksundo and Dahn claim ancient Korean origins for Taoist ki-gong practices, which everyone else in the world believes came from China.
If you believe that the original ancient Korean society existed as an advanced spiritual, shamanist, taoist society in regions that later were claimed by China, you can argue that Taoism originated in Korea and later influenced Chinese culture. Does Dahn also believe that Koreans originated "yoga" and then influenced the Indians? I wouldn't be surprised.
Seems the antiquity of Sundo's lineage is based on Korean mythology, folklore, and Korean 13th century scripture, which goes the same for Ilchi Lee's Dahnhak. Many Koreans believe the nationalist sentiment that the entire Korean race descend from Tangun, the son of a god and a bear who the god helped become a woman.
I read that Sundo was made popular in the 60's in Korea by a man who claimed to have lived in the mountains for decades under a teacher who told him to spread the practice. He founded "Kooksundo," still going on today. Ilchi Lee then said in the 80's that he spent 21 days in the mountains without food, water, or sleep (which would break more than one record) before becoming enlightened to bring modernized dahnhak exercises to the people. (He had trained in Taekwondo.) Both Kooksundo and Dahn claim ancient Korean origins for Taoist ki-gong practices, which everyone else in the world believes came from China.
If you believe that the original ancient Korean society existed as an advanced spiritual, shamanist, taoist society in regions that later were claimed by China, you can argue that Taoism originated in Korea and later influenced Chinese culture. Does Dahn also believe that Koreans originated "yoga" and then influenced the Indians? I wouldn't be surprised.
5
July 14, 2009
I think that you are using a very narrow of a view point Timothy. It is not unethical for Dahn Yoga to use the term Yoga, fore the term yoga does accurately describe the practice:
The Definition of Yoga
Yoga (Sanskrit, Pāli: योग yóga) refers to traditional physical and mental disciplines originating in India. The word is associated with meditative practices in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. In Hinduism, it also refers to one of the six orthodox (āstika) schools of Hindu philosophy, and to the goal toward which that school directs its practices. In Jainism it refers to the sum total of all activities—mental, verbal and physical.
Major branches of yoga in Hindu philosophy include Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Hatha Yoga. Raja Yoga, compiled in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and known simply as yoga in the context of Hindu philosophy, is part of the Samkhya tradition. Many other Hindu texts discuss aspects of yoga, including Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the Shiva Samhita and various Tantras.
The Sanskrit word yoga has many meanings, and is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning "to control", "to yoke" or "to unite". Translations include "joining", "uniting", "union", "conjunction", and "means". Outside India, the term yoga is typically associated with Hatha Yoga and its asanas (postures) or as a form of exercise. Someone who practices yoga or follows the yoga philosophy is called a Yogi.
To put Yoga in a small box does not do it credit. Kung Fu and many other martial arts are rumored to have their origins from yoga. How information and practices were shared in the ancient world is ambiguous to us.
I suggest that we keep an open mind and not condemn another practice as unethical (especially if we have not tried it.)
For me and many of the other practitioners that I know, Dahn Yoga has done wonderful things to improve health, happiness and peace of mind. As a practice itself it is based on ancient principles and it works. As someone who has practiced yoga and other martial arts for 20 years, I do not hold one yoga as higher then another, and also, not all yogas are created equal. What is important to recognize is what is being taught in the classroom and practiced in life, and what works for you. It works for me, so I am happy. I prefer to just leave it at that.
However, As far as the next comment by forest. Dahn Yoga is not claiming to be better or worse then any other practice. They very specifically accredit SunDo to have started in an area around the border of Tibet, China, and Mongolia (not current day Korea.)
The rumor of a bear being a descendent of the Korean people is a distorted version of the story of the princess of the bear tribe being the descendant of the Koreans. This was induced by invading Japanese soldiers as a tactic to demoralize Korean people.
Ilchi Lee does not claim to have not drank water during his 21 day ascetic training training on Mount Moak.
It is hard to claim that the Nation at the time of the origin of taoist practice was China, Korea, Tibet, Istanbul, or whatever. It was none of these places because at that time it was a Nation that in and of itself that is no nation existing today. Korea is just one of the places that is keeping the tradition alive. And one of the ways that it is doing it is through Dahn. That is a great thing that we should be happy and grateful for, not trying to debunk. The more people that are brining messages and practices of healing to this world the better.
Smile : )
The Definition of Yoga
Yoga (Sanskrit, Pāli: योग yóga) refers to traditional physical and mental disciplines originating in India. The word is associated with meditative practices in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. In Hinduism, it also refers to one of the six orthodox (āstika) schools of Hindu philosophy, and to the goal toward which that school directs its practices. In Jainism it refers to the sum total of all activities—mental, verbal and physical.
Major branches of yoga in Hindu philosophy include Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Hatha Yoga. Raja Yoga, compiled in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and known simply as yoga in the context of Hindu philosophy, is part of the Samkhya tradition. Many other Hindu texts discuss aspects of yoga, including Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the Shiva Samhita and various Tantras.
The Sanskrit word yoga has many meanings, and is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning "to control", "to yoke" or "to unite". Translations include "joining", "uniting", "union", "conjunction", and "means". Outside India, the term yoga is typically associated with Hatha Yoga and its asanas (postures) or as a form of exercise. Someone who practices yoga or follows the yoga philosophy is called a Yogi.
To put Yoga in a small box does not do it credit. Kung Fu and many other martial arts are rumored to have their origins from yoga. How information and practices were shared in the ancient world is ambiguous to us.
I suggest that we keep an open mind and not condemn another practice as unethical (especially if we have not tried it.)
For me and many of the other practitioners that I know, Dahn Yoga has done wonderful things to improve health, happiness and peace of mind. As a practice itself it is based on ancient principles and it works. As someone who has practiced yoga and other martial arts for 20 years, I do not hold one yoga as higher then another, and also, not all yogas are created equal. What is important to recognize is what is being taught in the classroom and practiced in life, and what works for you. It works for me, so I am happy. I prefer to just leave it at that.
However, As far as the next comment by forest. Dahn Yoga is not claiming to be better or worse then any other practice. They very specifically accredit SunDo to have started in an area around the border of Tibet, China, and Mongolia (not current day Korea.)
The rumor of a bear being a descendent of the Korean people is a distorted version of the story of the princess of the bear tribe being the descendant of the Koreans. This was induced by invading Japanese soldiers as a tactic to demoralize Korean people.
Ilchi Lee does not claim to have not drank water during his 21 day ascetic training training on Mount Moak.
It is hard to claim that the Nation at the time of the origin of taoist practice was China, Korea, Tibet, Istanbul, or whatever. It was none of these places because at that time it was a Nation that in and of itself that is no nation existing today. Korea is just one of the places that is keeping the tradition alive. And one of the ways that it is doing it is through Dahn. That is a great thing that we should be happy and grateful for, not trying to debunk. The more people that are brining messages and practices of healing to this world the better.
Smile : )
6
July 15, 2009
@Healthybodyhappyheart
I apologize, but I am having a hard time following the logic that it is not unethical for Dahn to use the term yoga. According to the definition of yoga in your posting:
"Yoga (Sanskrit, Pāli: योग yóga) refers to traditional physical and mental disciplines originating in India." Are you stating that DahnHak originated in India?
"The word is associated with meditative practices in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism." Is Dahn associated with any of these meditative practices?
"Someone who practices yoga or follows the yoga philosophy is called a Yogi." Is the term "Yogi" used in Dahn instead of "Master" or "Subanims" (sorry, probably misspelled)?
If it is meant that Yoga is often referred to a type of exercise that unites the mind and body, I can follow that, but in my opinion this definition does not state that.
Also the statement from forest according to what Ilchi Lee stated in the 80's is supported by this video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FctkdDr13hQ
According to this video which is housed in the Ilchi Lee Museum, it states that, "he went day after day alone, without food or water or sleep always asking…on the 21st day his head felt like it was going to explode….." So is the video wrong? Is it an embellishment on his training since it resides in his own museum?
I am just searching for some clarification on what point you are trying to make
I apologize, but I am having a hard time following the logic that it is not unethical for Dahn to use the term yoga. According to the definition of yoga in your posting:
"Yoga (Sanskrit, Pāli: योग yóga) refers to traditional physical and mental disciplines originating in India." Are you stating that DahnHak originated in India?
"The word is associated with meditative practices in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism." Is Dahn associated with any of these meditative practices?
"Someone who practices yoga or follows the yoga philosophy is called a Yogi." Is the term "Yogi" used in Dahn instead of "Master" or "Subanims" (sorry, probably misspelled)?
If it is meant that Yoga is often referred to a type of exercise that unites the mind and body, I can follow that, but in my opinion this definition does not state that.
Also the statement from forest according to what Ilchi Lee stated in the 80's is supported by this video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FctkdDr13hQ
According to this video which is housed in the Ilchi Lee Museum, it states that, "he went day after day alone, without food or water or sleep always asking…on the 21st day his head felt like it was going to explode….." So is the video wrong? Is it an embellishment on his training since it resides in his own museum?
I am just searching for some clarification on what point you are trying to make
7
July 15, 2009
Healthybodyhappyheart, I didn’t say that they claim Dahn Yoga to be better than other practices, but I imagine the true believers do. The most entrenched believe it’s the path to a sudden shift to a peaceful unified world, if they can just create 100 million Dahn healers before we soon all destroy the earth.
They may say that SunDo started around the border of Tibet, China, and Mongolia, but they also say that this is where the original Korean civilization started (not part of Korea today). Ilchi Lee says: "The origins of Dahnhak Kigong Training go back in Korean history more than 5,000 years. It began as a program to educate the public in how to develop both the body and mind. For 3,000 years the wise leaders of a Korean civilization saw to it that each generation practiced Kigong, a health-enhancing and self-empowering martial art."
He sounds like he’s reciting historical fact, but that 5000 year old Korean civilization he refers to is based on one of Korea’s founding myths (Tangun), and on some of the beliefs, texts, and practices of the small Taejonggyo religion. From my understanding, that religion worships Tangun as God, holds the Heavenly Code as sacred, believes Tangun originated meditation, energy breathing and awakening to your true nature (internal alchemy) to benefit all mankind – the Hongik ideal. Sound familiar? Ilchi Lee has erected hundreds of statues of Tangun, his followers bow to Tangun and chant the Heavenly Code - which you can buy in many forms from them, like expensive magic “Okum” cards. (What is Okum?! Sounds like hokum!)
I don’t think the Japanese promoted the Tangun myth at all, let alone distorting it. I read the opposite, that it was promoted to enhance Korean national ethnic pride and unification in the face of Japanese control. I’m sure there are different interpretation of the myth with some taking it literally and others metaphorically. A good article is “Myth, Memory and the Reinvention in Korea: the Case of Tan’gun” by Michael J. Seth. You can find it online.
I don’t know if Dahn teaches that Tangun was literally a god-man or if his mother was a literal bear turned human. The point is that what Dahnhak’s claims as factual lineage that you call “authentic” is based on nationalist mythology, folklore, and religious belief.
Qigong practices based on Daoism (internal alchemy) came much later than 5000 years ago, and not from Korea - from China. Read Don Baker. He studies Korean religion and wrote about Dahn World.
If you think Ilchi Lee “does not claim to have not drank water during his 21 day ascetic training training on Mount Moak,” tell that to the people who promote him. Dahn’s Wikipedia writers say he didn’t lie down either. If you believe that, Healing Society will sell you a magic “Okum” turtle necklace for $1040. It must be real because it’s based on “ancient” Korean practice, right?
Some companies and leaders deserve debunking or at least questioning.
They may say that SunDo started around the border of Tibet, China, and Mongolia, but they also say that this is where the original Korean civilization started (not part of Korea today). Ilchi Lee says: "The origins of Dahnhak Kigong Training go back in Korean history more than 5,000 years. It began as a program to educate the public in how to develop both the body and mind. For 3,000 years the wise leaders of a Korean civilization saw to it that each generation practiced Kigong, a health-enhancing and self-empowering martial art."
He sounds like he’s reciting historical fact, but that 5000 year old Korean civilization he refers to is based on one of Korea’s founding myths (Tangun), and on some of the beliefs, texts, and practices of the small Taejonggyo religion. From my understanding, that religion worships Tangun as God, holds the Heavenly Code as sacred, believes Tangun originated meditation, energy breathing and awakening to your true nature (internal alchemy) to benefit all mankind – the Hongik ideal. Sound familiar? Ilchi Lee has erected hundreds of statues of Tangun, his followers bow to Tangun and chant the Heavenly Code - which you can buy in many forms from them, like expensive magic “Okum” cards. (What is Okum?! Sounds like hokum!)
I don’t think the Japanese promoted the Tangun myth at all, let alone distorting it. I read the opposite, that it was promoted to enhance Korean national ethnic pride and unification in the face of Japanese control. I’m sure there are different interpretation of the myth with some taking it literally and others metaphorically. A good article is “Myth, Memory and the Reinvention in Korea: the Case of Tan’gun” by Michael J. Seth. You can find it online.
I don’t know if Dahn teaches that Tangun was literally a god-man or if his mother was a literal bear turned human. The point is that what Dahnhak’s claims as factual lineage that you call “authentic” is based on nationalist mythology, folklore, and religious belief.
Qigong practices based on Daoism (internal alchemy) came much later than 5000 years ago, and not from Korea - from China. Read Don Baker. He studies Korean religion and wrote about Dahn World.
If you think Ilchi Lee “does not claim to have not drank water during his 21 day ascetic training training on Mount Moak,” tell that to the people who promote him. Dahn’s Wikipedia writers say he didn’t lie down either. If you believe that, Healing Society will sell you a magic “Okum” turtle necklace for $1040. It must be real because it’s based on “ancient” Korean practice, right?
Some companies and leaders deserve debunking or at least questioning.
8
July 16, 2009
Hello Kelly,
I was a member of Dahn Yoga and I have now been an instructor for 6 years.
I am extremely disappointed to see the blog post and comments on your website about the so-called Dahn Yoga "Controversy," especially since you state in your very first sentence that you "don't know much about the practice."
I feel that it is very unfair for anyone who hasn't even given this practice an honest chance to say such negative, condemning and degrading comments about it.
There are hundreds of Dahn Yoga centers throughout the world including the US, Korea, Canada, Japan, South America, and Europe; we have incredibly beautiful retreat centers also in Korea, Canada, the US, and Japan where thousands of people have experienced profound healing; hundreds of thousands of members continue to benefit greatly from the training programs, recovering from health problems that run the gamut from chronic back pain to multiple sclerosis and even to cancer, as well as anxiety and depression.
I am one of thousands of instructors very happily employed by this company, and the founder (of the practice, not the current president of the company) Ilchi Lee has even received the Korean equivalent of the Congressional Medal of Honor.
For you, Timothy, Forest, and dono to make such negative remarks about Dahn Yoga with such nonchalance is deeply insulting and disrespectful to me, to my fellow instructors and members of my organization, to the hundreds of thousands of members who are loyal to our centers, and to the South Korean government.
If you followed a true journalist's code of ethics, you would not have included only negative information about Dahn Yoga, especially without conclusions or proven facts (the only semblance of positivity can be found in the line "many more people continue to believe in its powers than in its faults").
You have not even given Dahn Yoga a fair chance and you are not speaking from firsthand experience (and going to one or two classes with a prejudiced, pre-determined negative attitude does NOT count).
The only thing that actually seemed to bother you up front is that the practice uses the term "yoga," which I read is a term in Sanskrit, in its name. Actually, we are free to choose to call it what we will. I could open a hamburger stand and call it Hamburger Yoga if I wanted to. That's one of the privileges of freedom we have in the US.
What I gather from the postings on your page is that you think only different kinds of Indian yoga should be called "yoga," otherwise we're lying to the public about what we offer. But there is no existing term in the English language that would accurately describe the practice. The practice itself would stand on its own, but any competent business manager could see that it would take much longer for it to become widely known if we used an unfamiliar term versus a term that is already familiar to the general public. Also, anybody who tried it and didn't like it could switch to a different "yoga" any time they wanted.
Just so you know, I have had quite a few members who practiced the "real" yoga and were even instructors who said this is the best holistic (body, mind, spirit) discipline they ever experienced.
I apologize for the length of my comment, but that is how strongly I wish people would be careful about making negative remarks irresponsibly.
Thank you,
Michelle
I was a member of Dahn Yoga and I have now been an instructor for 6 years.
I am extremely disappointed to see the blog post and comments on your website about the so-called Dahn Yoga "Controversy," especially since you state in your very first sentence that you "don't know much about the practice."
I feel that it is very unfair for anyone who hasn't even given this practice an honest chance to say such negative, condemning and degrading comments about it.
There are hundreds of Dahn Yoga centers throughout the world including the US, Korea, Canada, Japan, South America, and Europe; we have incredibly beautiful retreat centers also in Korea, Canada, the US, and Japan where thousands of people have experienced profound healing; hundreds of thousands of members continue to benefit greatly from the training programs, recovering from health problems that run the gamut from chronic back pain to multiple sclerosis and even to cancer, as well as anxiety and depression.
I am one of thousands of instructors very happily employed by this company, and the founder (of the practice, not the current president of the company) Ilchi Lee has even received the Korean equivalent of the Congressional Medal of Honor.
For you, Timothy, Forest, and dono to make such negative remarks about Dahn Yoga with such nonchalance is deeply insulting and disrespectful to me, to my fellow instructors and members of my organization, to the hundreds of thousands of members who are loyal to our centers, and to the South Korean government.
If you followed a true journalist's code of ethics, you would not have included only negative information about Dahn Yoga, especially without conclusions or proven facts (the only semblance of positivity can be found in the line "many more people continue to believe in its powers than in its faults").
You have not even given Dahn Yoga a fair chance and you are not speaking from firsthand experience (and going to one or two classes with a prejudiced, pre-determined negative attitude does NOT count).
The only thing that actually seemed to bother you up front is that the practice uses the term "yoga," which I read is a term in Sanskrit, in its name. Actually, we are free to choose to call it what we will. I could open a hamburger stand and call it Hamburger Yoga if I wanted to. That's one of the privileges of freedom we have in the US.
What I gather from the postings on your page is that you think only different kinds of Indian yoga should be called "yoga," otherwise we're lying to the public about what we offer. But there is no existing term in the English language that would accurately describe the practice. The practice itself would stand on its own, but any competent business manager could see that it would take much longer for it to become widely known if we used an unfamiliar term versus a term that is already familiar to the general public. Also, anybody who tried it and didn't like it could switch to a different "yoga" any time they wanted.
Just so you know, I have had quite a few members who practiced the "real" yoga and were even instructors who said this is the best holistic (body, mind, spirit) discipline they ever experienced.
I apologize for the length of my comment, but that is how strongly I wish people would be careful about making negative remarks irresponsibly.
Thank you,
Michelle
9
July 17, 2009
@ onion012
In your post you stated, "I could open a hamburger stand and call it Hamburger Yoga if I wanted to. That's one of the privileges of freedom we have in the US."
You could do that, but you probably would get sued for deceptive business practices under the Fair Trade Commission Act of 1914. If people reasonable expect to receive yoga from your name and advertisements, but in return you only sell them hamburgers, it could be construed as deceptive.
This is why the litigants are able to sue Dahn. If Dahn had not changed their name, this would be a non-issue. What is the expectation for services received from DahnHak? What would be the expectation of services received from Dahn World, or Dahn Holistic Healing Centers, or Brain and Body Education Centers? These expectations are different than the expectation of Dahn Yoga.
One of the primary points in the lawsuit was the litigants thought they were getting Yoga and instead received something different. To prove this point they are going to use some definition of "Yoga." What that definition is; I do not know. Whatever the generally accepted "definition" of Yoga is will determine this portion of the case.
In your post you stated, "I could open a hamburger stand and call it Hamburger Yoga if I wanted to. That's one of the privileges of freedom we have in the US."
You could do that, but you probably would get sued for deceptive business practices under the Fair Trade Commission Act of 1914. If people reasonable expect to receive yoga from your name and advertisements, but in return you only sell them hamburgers, it could be construed as deceptive.
This is why the litigants are able to sue Dahn. If Dahn had not changed their name, this would be a non-issue. What is the expectation for services received from DahnHak? What would be the expectation of services received from Dahn World, or Dahn Holistic Healing Centers, or Brain and Body Education Centers? These expectations are different than the expectation of Dahn Yoga.
One of the primary points in the lawsuit was the litigants thought they were getting Yoga and instead received something different. To prove this point they are going to use some definition of "Yoga." What that definition is; I do not know. Whatever the generally accepted "definition" of Yoga is will determine this portion of the case.
10
July 17, 2009
Well, I am very happy with my experience at Dahn Yoga (and I have actually practiced it,) and I also know several Indian Yoga practitioners who are members of Dahn and love it. They do not say, "This is not yoga," they ask, "When is the next class?"
I even read a testimonial from a prominent ayurvadic doctor from India. He has studied many forms of yoga in India and also teaches. Before his departure back to India he said, "Dahn Yoga is the best form of yoga that I have experienced thus far, and I will teach it to my patients at my office."
I am happy that there is such an interest in Dahn Yoga, but I agree with Onion that people should not be so negative. It is not good for your health. The truth is that Dahn Yoga is a practice that helps people to become more physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy nothing more nothing less.
Love
I even read a testimonial from a prominent ayurvadic doctor from India. He has studied many forms of yoga in India and also teaches. Before his departure back to India he said, "Dahn Yoga is the best form of yoga that I have experienced thus far, and I will teach it to my patients at my office."
I am happy that there is such an interest in Dahn Yoga, but I agree with Onion that people should not be so negative. It is not good for your health. The truth is that Dahn Yoga is a practice that helps people to become more physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy nothing more nothing less.
Love
11
July 17, 2009
Dear Healthybodyhappyheart and onion012,
No one here is saying that DahnHak is a bad practice, or making judgments on the quality of the experience of taking Dahn Yoga classes. Please stop complaining that we are.
It is wonderful that you both are happy with your experience with DahnHak. But I am curious why both of you are so reactive to any criticism of the name of your practice? (And note that we are only criticizing the name, not the techniques!) As with the comments of both dono and forrest, we are only giving clear logical statements as to why Dhan cannot be honestly called yoga, and why calling it yoga is unethical and potentially illegal.
As the founder and director of this site, I have a obligation to both educate and defend the practice of yoga (and if you are not sure what yoga is you can find out on our "Yoga 101" section). I am open to receiving criticism for both my logic and truthfulness of my statements, but personal attacks or judgments (on myself or others) will not be tolerated.
No one here is saying that DahnHak is a bad practice, or making judgments on the quality of the experience of taking Dahn Yoga classes. Please stop complaining that we are.
It is wonderful that you both are happy with your experience with DahnHak. But I am curious why both of you are so reactive to any criticism of the name of your practice? (And note that we are only criticizing the name, not the techniques!) As with the comments of both dono and forrest, we are only giving clear logical statements as to why Dhan cannot be honestly called yoga, and why calling it yoga is unethical and potentially illegal.
As the founder and director of this site, I have a obligation to both educate and defend the practice of yoga (and if you are not sure what yoga is you can find out on our "Yoga 101" section). I am open to receiving criticism for both my logic and truthfulness of my statements, but personal attacks or judgments (on myself or others) will not be tolerated.
12
July 17, 2009
No one can deny that many people love Dahn exercise, whether it's accurately called yoga or not, and they love the support they find there (hugging, smiling, massage, sharing, encouragement) and the sincerity of the instructors. A lot of people who go there are out of shape to begin with and find health improvements immediately. (Regular exercise and relaxation and feeling hopeful are known to be healthy and healing. Claiming that Dahn cures cancer and M.S. - that goes too far.)
I wouldn't care at all about them calling it yoga nor would I bother to criticize them claiming an ancient Korean heritage if not for something else going on there that seems much more sinister. The 24 former masters are not suing because they call it yoga. Their allegation is that they thought they were just joining an exercise program but ended up being lured into a thought-reforming, manipulative organization that drained all their money on programs (supposedly to heal themselves and save the world) and all their time recruiting new members to raise money for Ilchi's "vision," which meant getting other people to sign up and spend all their money or time on Dahn. They say Dahn impaired their critical thinking abilities to where one woman alleges that she passively submitted to sexual relations with Ilchi Lee under his dominance, leading her to a mental breakdown after many of her Dahn friends told her she should feel honored that he chose her. We don't know if this is true, but this is not the first lawsuit or story like this.
Michelle here says that the criticism of Dahn Yoga on this discussion board is an insult to thousands of Dahn members and masters everywhere and even to the South Korean government, but isn't it much more insulting to Dahn members and masters and to the Korean government for Dahn to get into two U.S. lawsuits for sexual assault, mind manipulation and violating labor laws, a wrongful death lawsuit, owning your own jet and Arabian horses, riding around in the most expensive car on the planet, living in a castle, owning prime real estate all over the world, and living an altogether extravagant lifestyle while devoted Dahn masters give up attachment to money, family,and friends to work day and night for the Ilchi "vision," some living communally working for room and board, and on and on and on?
All in all, I'm sorry that this kind of criticism is upsetting to people who love Dahn and feel healed by Dahn. I would probably feel the same way if I were devoted to an organization. Loyalty is a great quality. (Closing your eyes to valid criticism? Not so great.) I think we all here want health, happiness, and peace for all - and that's why I am critical of Dahn. They are not a small organization. They are huge and growing. A lot of people can get hurt.
I too am open to any corrections of the accuracy of my statements or of my logic. Go at it.
I wouldn't care at all about them calling it yoga nor would I bother to criticize them claiming an ancient Korean heritage if not for something else going on there that seems much more sinister. The 24 former masters are not suing because they call it yoga. Their allegation is that they thought they were just joining an exercise program but ended up being lured into a thought-reforming, manipulative organization that drained all their money on programs (supposedly to heal themselves and save the world) and all their time recruiting new members to raise money for Ilchi's "vision," which meant getting other people to sign up and spend all their money or time on Dahn. They say Dahn impaired their critical thinking abilities to where one woman alleges that she passively submitted to sexual relations with Ilchi Lee under his dominance, leading her to a mental breakdown after many of her Dahn friends told her she should feel honored that he chose her. We don't know if this is true, but this is not the first lawsuit or story like this.
Michelle here says that the criticism of Dahn Yoga on this discussion board is an insult to thousands of Dahn members and masters everywhere and even to the South Korean government, but isn't it much more insulting to Dahn members and masters and to the Korean government for Dahn to get into two U.S. lawsuits for sexual assault, mind manipulation and violating labor laws, a wrongful death lawsuit, owning your own jet and Arabian horses, riding around in the most expensive car on the planet, living in a castle, owning prime real estate all over the world, and living an altogether extravagant lifestyle while devoted Dahn masters give up attachment to money, family,and friends to work day and night for the Ilchi "vision," some living communally working for room and board, and on and on and on?
All in all, I'm sorry that this kind of criticism is upsetting to people who love Dahn and feel healed by Dahn. I would probably feel the same way if I were devoted to an organization. Loyalty is a great quality. (Closing your eyes to valid criticism? Not so great.) I think we all here want health, happiness, and peace for all - and that's why I am critical of Dahn. They are not a small organization. They are huge and growing. A lot of people can get hurt.
I too am open to any corrections of the accuracy of my statements or of my logic. Go at it.
13
July 18, 2009
Dahn Yoga is parroting Globalist propaganda and is merely dolled up in a new suit, but it's the same New Age racket that can been seen in multiple cults before it.
The video posted above looks good on the surface with it's One Race, One Religion, One Earth sales pitch, until you dig a bit deeper and realize it's the same globalist crock that has been hitting the new age air waves since the turn of the century with the failed League of Nations that was born out of WWI to the more popular version, the Unite Nations that became the success post WWII.
Occultists like Alice Bailey, Aleister Crowley and their Golden Dawn, OTO organizations published originally through a company known as Lucifer Trust, know known and promoted via the UN as Lucis Trust, sold the same spiel of planetary consciousness, enlightenment, be a god unto yourself, etc...
The aim is to unite the world under one government... and these sorts of cults just keep you blind to it by making you feel good. The practice of Dahn does make you feel good, but it's slow indoctrination into ignoring the ills of this planet and why they are happening. Ilchi Lee may be nothing more than an "enlightened" master-manipulator leading people astray.
Enjoy
:) Smile :)
The video posted above looks good on the surface with it's One Race, One Religion, One Earth sales pitch, until you dig a bit deeper and realize it's the same globalist crock that has been hitting the new age air waves since the turn of the century with the failed League of Nations that was born out of WWI to the more popular version, the Unite Nations that became the success post WWII.
Occultists like Alice Bailey, Aleister Crowley and their Golden Dawn, OTO organizations published originally through a company known as Lucifer Trust, know known and promoted via the UN as Lucis Trust, sold the same spiel of planetary consciousness, enlightenment, be a god unto yourself, etc...
The aim is to unite the world under one government... and these sorts of cults just keep you blind to it by making you feel good. The practice of Dahn does make you feel good, but it's slow indoctrination into ignoring the ills of this planet and why they are happening. Ilchi Lee may be nothing more than an "enlightened" master-manipulator leading people astray.
Enjoy
:) Smile :)
14
July 22, 2009
I have not tried this style of practice, but to discredit something from being called 'yoga' because it did not have it's orgins or roots in India, is to discredit yin yoga, taoist yoga and the yin and yang yoga (by paulie zink) styles. but I don't agree that simply being in the US allows anyone to call their practice 'yoga' to market it to others. It should be called what it is and if the term 'yoga' was attached to it soley in the US to get people to attend is wrong on so many levels. I agree with Timothy; if the practice is a good practice on its own, it should not need to add the word 'yoga' to it. Tai chi chaun and qi gong its benefits to its practice which are not that dis-similar to yoga.
Yoga or not, there are 24 practioners that have issue with the founder and the company (which their in itself should tell you something. When was the last time any founder of a yoga style said it was a company) and believe it to be a cult. The ladies on this comment track do not feel the same as the 24 practioners. Maybe that is something to be further investigated. Why the big difference in opinion? Are they being brain washed (it doesn't seem so), or has their experiences been totally different? I would like to see Happybodyhappyheart and onion012 comment on the allegations brought forth from the 24 practioners vs their experiences rather than to comment on whether the Dahn style of practice has the right to be called yoga or not
Yoga or not, there are 24 practioners that have issue with the founder and the company (which their in itself should tell you something. When was the last time any founder of a yoga style said it was a company) and believe it to be a cult. The ladies on this comment track do not feel the same as the 24 practioners. Maybe that is something to be further investigated. Why the big difference in opinion? Are they being brain washed (it doesn't seem so), or has their experiences been totally different? I would like to see Happybodyhappyheart and onion012 comment on the allegations brought forth from the 24 practioners vs their experiences rather than to comment on whether the Dahn style of practice has the right to be called yoga or not
15
August 02, 2009
I tried Dahn Yoga, after I had been practicing yoga for more than 10 years. I found few similarities to ANY yoga class I had ever before taken. I had to have a pre-class 60 minute session where a person poked and prodded me - DEEPLY into my intestines and I was plopped in front of a tv to watch a video on digestive disorders. This was uncomfortable, but bearable. After this session, I had to change into cotton pants and shirt they offered me to use. I was told I would need to buy my own for future classes. The yoga 'class' was a session where someone stood at the front of the room doing postures and the class was expected to follow. No instruction was offered other than 'do this'. 20 minutes of the class was holding a squat with arms extended as if hugging a barrel while the 'teacher' encouraged us to hold the pose. It was challenging. But, I did not think it was yoga. This is not to say it is not a good practice, but I was so thankful this was not my first experience with a yoga class. After the class we shared tea and our experience of that days class around a circle. THEN, I was invited to sit at a desk opposite one of the teachers and given a contract to sign up for a monthly commitment of over $100 per month!! Needless to say, I declined. I inquired if I might drop-in on occasion, but that was greatly frowned upon. I do understand the business model of this organization, and I appreciate that teachers would like a commitment from students, but geeze, life so gets in the way of attendance way too often. I don't want my yoga to be yet another to-do item on my list and just an automatic charge to my credit card account. I want to come to my yoga class with joy. And leave feeling better than when I came in without having to endure a sales pitch. I have shared my experience with others. I think Dahn is a business. It may be yoga, but not like any other yoga I ever heard of before. I agree it smacks of a martial arts school more than a yoga studio. It is not bad or good. Just not what I expected of a yoga establishment. Makes me think the Yoga part of the name is but a marketing tool.
All the yoga I've experienced, Kriya, Forrest, Yin Yoga, Anusara, Svaroopa, Iyengar, Bikram, Kali Ray, and a few more too, may market themselves, but they offer students an environment to blossom and grow in- in their own time in their own way [the student]. I felt the Dahn school was more interested in my monetary commitment than in me.
All the yoga I've experienced, Kriya, Forrest, Yin Yoga, Anusara, Svaroopa, Iyengar, Bikram, Kali Ray, and a few more too, may market themselves, but they offer students an environment to blossom and grow in- in their own time in their own way [the student]. I felt the Dahn school was more interested in my monetary commitment than in me.
16
August 04, 2009
I have been doing some searching on the net about Dahn Yoga. I just want to log on my experiences to help others like me who are on the fence about this type of practice and decide for themselves.
I am from Calgary, Canada and 3 new dahn yoga studios just popped up. I have attended 2 classes now and find some of the comments above similar. I am in love with yoga. I tried the studio because I was trying to find a studio near my house to go to. When I attended I thought I was going to a yoga class but it turned out very different. I was first sat down to be educated on the class especially to speak Korean sayings after certain exercises. I was poked and told I have emotional issues. During the class I did feel certain sensations I did not before. Like feeling really warm with little movement and feeling energy between my hands during meditation. After class my friend and I was swept into a deal if we both signed up at the same time for unlimited classes for a month for $89 each. She was a little pushy when we would come back for an assessment session. I just attributed it to her enthusiasm for the practice. I just had the assessment done today and took another class. This time she really poked me hard so much so I am getting really sore 12 hours after the class. I am starting to wonder if she did it so hard so she could prove to me I had emotions blocking my solar plexus point. She told me I have specifically family issues. I think in retrospect every human being at any point of their lives have emotional stuff with family in shape or form. For me, it is more charged as I have been through some unusual things. So yes it hit a sore point for me. I also told her I have been having a problem with my skin and she immediately said I would have clear skin in weeks. She told me I should do another session for $70 to help my severe blockage. I did book an appointment but I may cancel. So far what I think from my experience is she may be mixing some truths with her beliefs--good or bad I am not the one to judge. But I know when you agree with someone on one thing and they immediately present you with something else that you may not you are more likely to agree. I know this because it is a sales tactic I use to upsell sometimes at work. I am definitely a little put off with the pushyness.
I guess from my typing this out I have more suspicious points than really positive points. It is turning out to be more expensive than the hot yoga classes I have been attending. For me, when attending the hot yoga classes I always leave feeling like a million bucks. After Dahn Yoga so far I am left feeling like I have a problem I need to fix immediately.
I am from Calgary, Canada and 3 new dahn yoga studios just popped up. I have attended 2 classes now and find some of the comments above similar. I am in love with yoga. I tried the studio because I was trying to find a studio near my house to go to. When I attended I thought I was going to a yoga class but it turned out very different. I was first sat down to be educated on the class especially to speak Korean sayings after certain exercises. I was poked and told I have emotional issues. During the class I did feel certain sensations I did not before. Like feeling really warm with little movement and feeling energy between my hands during meditation. After class my friend and I was swept into a deal if we both signed up at the same time for unlimited classes for a month for $89 each. She was a little pushy when we would come back for an assessment session. I just attributed it to her enthusiasm for the practice. I just had the assessment done today and took another class. This time she really poked me hard so much so I am getting really sore 12 hours after the class. I am starting to wonder if she did it so hard so she could prove to me I had emotions blocking my solar plexus point. She told me I have specifically family issues. I think in retrospect every human being at any point of their lives have emotional stuff with family in shape or form. For me, it is more charged as I have been through some unusual things. So yes it hit a sore point for me. I also told her I have been having a problem with my skin and she immediately said I would have clear skin in weeks. She told me I should do another session for $70 to help my severe blockage. I did book an appointment but I may cancel. So far what I think from my experience is she may be mixing some truths with her beliefs--good or bad I am not the one to judge. But I know when you agree with someone on one thing and they immediately present you with something else that you may not you are more likely to agree. I know this because it is a sales tactic I use to upsell sometimes at work. I am definitely a little put off with the pushyness.
I guess from my typing this out I have more suspicious points than really positive points. It is turning out to be more expensive than the hot yoga classes I have been attending. For me, when attending the hot yoga classes I always leave feeling like a million bucks. After Dahn Yoga so far I am left feeling like I have a problem I need to fix immediately.
17
February 15, 2010
When I was in Korea in 1987, I began to learn from a Korean co-worker a Korean form of martial art that he had learned from a disciple of a mountain man. Mountain men had stayed in the mountains, and their whole lives would usually teach only one disciple. About 1919 many mountain men received the revelation to come down from the mountains into the cities and to teach everybody. The motions were more circular than Tae Kwon Do. Along with motions there were breathing an cleaning the energy center visualizations, such as imagining the bright sun at the point below the navel (Dan center), and then tar or black smoke coming out the back at the point opposite the dan center. Then he showed me a book. It looked like a yoga book. I learned that they believe this came from Mongolia 5000 years ago, same time as a branch went to India. Definitely it is yoga equally as old as that from India.
18
March 11, 2010
Actually just having read all the other comments, I have to really chuckle. I have been associated with Koreans for a long time and find it interesting that all Koreans seem to like me very much, but also that they have very aggressive and bossy personalities. The Korean I mention in my last comment in fact learned raja yoga meditation from me, that I learned from Ram Chandra of Shajahanpur. So that route of transmission was India-> America->Korea.
19
March 12, 2010
Let me tell you about how Dahn "yoga" as a beginner struck me. I had a introductory appointment on 5/32/2010 which I paid for in cash. After an evaluation and a hard to understand (the gentleman Seos ability to speak English was difficult to understand) introduction he asked me to sign up and how much could I afford. After a couple of back and forth conversations with his "manager" and my request to have some time (a day or two) to think about it he said no that if I didn't take the offer now I would lose out. That's when I should have left the office but instead I agreed to put a down payment of $100 dollars and sign a contract.
After that was completed Seo told me that I would have to come back for another introductory appointment and I would need special clothes to participate. By the end of two hours the last 45 minutes spent in a battle over money and a contact I folded. When I got home I read the contract thoroughly and realized that I had made a huge mistake. However, I did have a recourse to canceling the contract and obtaining my down payment which I exercised on 6/1/2010 and 6/2/2010. I have called the local center 3 times in two days-each time there is a different excuse and a promist to call me back later. It hasn't happened. I have also emailed and called the Dahn Yoga Customer Service number. No response from them either. So my conclusion before even getting any further into this program is this isn't really what it appears to be and it is a scam. I can honestly say I have been had by an organization that does is not ethical and is not yoga (which I have participated in before). I went to the Dahn Yoga Center with high hopes...now I know it's just a scam to get money from unsuspecting people who are desperate to improve their health and wll being. If it wasn't why wouldn't anyone at Dahn Yoga respond to my multiple requests and atleast try to discuss the problems with me...you be the judge.
After that was completed Seo told me that I would have to come back for another introductory appointment and I would need special clothes to participate. By the end of two hours the last 45 minutes spent in a battle over money and a contact I folded. When I got home I read the contract thoroughly and realized that I had made a huge mistake. However, I did have a recourse to canceling the contract and obtaining my down payment which I exercised on 6/1/2010 and 6/2/2010. I have called the local center 3 times in two days-each time there is a different excuse and a promist to call me back later. It hasn't happened. I have also emailed and called the Dahn Yoga Customer Service number. No response from them either. So my conclusion before even getting any further into this program is this isn't really what it appears to be and it is a scam. I can honestly say I have been had by an organization that does is not ethical and is not yoga (which I have participated in before). I went to the Dahn Yoga Center with high hopes...now I know it's just a scam to get money from unsuspecting people who are desperate to improve their health and wll being. If it wasn't why wouldn't anyone at Dahn Yoga respond to my multiple requests and atleast try to discuss the problems with me...you be the judge.
20
June 03, 2010
sorry for the typos above but if you can get over that I hope you can understand why I am so frustrated and upset. I am disabled and live on a very fixed income. A $100 dollars might not seem like a lot to some people but to me it's a big investment-stay away is all I can say and learn from my experience.
21
June 03, 2010
Thanks for you comments, and no need to apologize. We appreciate your input and sharing of your direct experience.
22
June 03, 2010
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