At Qi Elements we take a comprehensive, in-depth approach to Taijiquan and Qigong. Whether the student is studying Taijiquan as a martial art or as a mind-body exercise for health, we provide knowledge and experience with both the martial root of the art and its internal energy (or qigong) root. The program of study is based upon Yang Style Taiji, as developed by Yang Chengfu and taught by Masters Yang Zhenduo and Yang Jun. Our taiji applications and qigong are based on the teachings of Dr. Yang, Jwing Ming. Our primary goal of maintaining the highest quality of core classes is complemented by our goal to reach out to the surrounding community. At Qi Elements, we believe that all people seeking peace and harmony should have an opportunity to experience the wonderful benefits of Taijiquan and Qigong.
Dr. Blough began his study of Taijiquan at Qi Elements in 1994 under the tutelage of former Director of Qi Elements, Simu Nancy Bloomfield, a student of Sifu Liu Chao Chi. In 1995 Simu Bloomfield introduce Dr. Blough to Grand Master Yang, Jwing Ming, then of Boston MA. Dr. Blough has studied Qigong and applications of Yang Style Taiji with Grand Master Yang since 1995 in Boston and at the YMAA Retreat Center in Miranda, CA., earning certification as an Assistant Instructor of YMAA Qigong in 2005 and as a Full Instructor in 2010. Dr Blough has also completed seminars in the Yang Style Taijiquan form from Masters Yang Zhenduo and Yang Jun.
Dr. Blough received a BA from the University of Pittsburgh, an MA from the University of Notre Dame and a Ph.D. in Political Science from The Ohio State University. He served three years as a Russian linguist with the US Army Security Agency and three years as an assistant professor of Political Science at the University of Dayton. He retired in 2006 after a 21-year career as an analyst of international affairs, manager and leadership trainer for the US Government.
Dr. Blough and his wife, Elsie, have resided in the Herndon area since 1985. They have one son, Christopher, who is a senior at the University of Mary Washington. The Bloughs are members of Herndon United Methodist Church. They are also the proud "parents" of a seven-year-old Golden Retriever, DandyLion.
Roger Blough, Director of Qi Elements
Taiji Instructors
Sifu Roger Blough (see above)
Assisting Sifu Blough in teaching the Taijiquan curriculum:
Marc Friedman - Black Sash
Drew Arshon - Black Sash
Katya Sylvester - Red Sash
Qi Elements is a Limited Liability Company registered with the State Corporation Commission of the Commonwealth of Virginia (Qi Elements, L.C. ID: S-01771).
