ABOUT BASTIAAN GROEN
A Journey of Transformation and Resilience
Born and raised in the peaceful countryside of northern Netherlands, I was always drawn to movement and the beauty of the natural world. The lush landscapes around my home became my sanctuary—a place where I felt truly connected and at peace. School, however, was a different story. I wasn’t one of the popular kids, and I often felt like an outsider, struggling to find my place. But whenever life felt overwhelming, I turned to nature. The quiet stillness of the grasslands offered me a refuge from school tasks and everyday pressures, allowing me to find a moment of clarity and peace.
Being at sea during our yearly sail trips gave me a profound sense of calm and balance. The rhythm of the waves and the freedom of the open water allowed me to escape life’s pressures and reconnect with myself. These moments shaped my bond with nature and planted the seeds of mindfulness that became crucial for my personal growth.
Through these early experiences, I learned that nature has a profound ability to heal, restore, and guide us back to our true selves. The lessons I gained from the grasslands and the sea became the foundation of my belief in the importance of movement, mindfulness, and the natural world in achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.
The Struggles of City Life: Losing My Way
Everything changed when we moved to the city. The connection to nature I once relied on was replaced by the noise and chaos of urban life. As a teenager, I felt lost and disoriented, unsure of who I was or where I belonged. In my search for identity, I drifted into a lifestyle of partying and rebellion, neglecting school and getting into trouble.
I couldn’t see a clear path forward and was overwhelmed by the pressures of adolescence. In a desperate attempt to regain some control over my life, I turned to Martial Arts. The discipline and structure provided me with a much-needed outlet, helping me cope with the turmoil I was experiencing.
From Pain to Success: Overcoming Adversity
But life had more challenges in store for me. A severe injury during a sparring match abruptly ended my martial arts competitions, plunging me into a deep well of pessimism and despair. It felt as though everything that had once given me strength and purpose had been taken away. The days were dark, and I struggled to find a reason to move forward.
Yet, in the midst of this darkness, I discovered something that would transform my life forever—Qigong and Tai Chi. These ancient practices, with their focus on breathwork and meditation, offered me a way out of the negative spiral I had fallen into. Slowly, I began to regain control over my thoughts and emotions, experiencing profound changes in my mental and emotional well-being.
A New Beginning: Finding Home and Purpose in Tenerife
With a renewed sense of hope, I decided it was time for a fresh start. I moved to Tenerife, a place where I could reconnect with the natural world that had always been my refuge. Here, surrounded by the ocean and mountains, I found the peace and clarity I had been searching for. Wave surfing and exploring the island’s stunning landscapes became my new passion, grounding me in a way I hadn’t felt in years.
The sea’s rhythmic waves and the mountains’ silent strength reminded me of the balance and harmony I had been seeking. Now, after 20 years, Tenerife has become more than just a home—it’s where I rediscovered my purpose.
My Mission: Sharing the Journey of Transformation
Looking back, I realize that sports and nature have always been my guiding lights, helping me find my way back whenever I felt lost. My personal journey from pain to healing, from confusion to clarity, has inspired me to dedicate my life to helping others navigate their own challenges. I believe deeply in the power of Mindful Movement, Breathwork, and Meditation to transform lives, just as they transformed mine. My mission is to share these practices with those who are seeking to improve their mental health, find balance, and reconnect with their true selves.
As a certified Fitness, Pilates, and Qigong Instructor with over 25 years of teaching experience, I am here to guide you on your journey of self-discovery, resilience, and inner peace. Whether you’re battling stress, anxiety, depression, or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, I am committed to supporting you every step of the way. I understand the struggles you may face because I’ve faced them too, and I know the strength and peace that can be found on the other side.
Join me at MindBodyInMotion and let’s walk this path together. Experience the transformative power of Qigong, Tai Chi, and breathwork. Let’s overcome your challenges, unlock your inner potential, and create a life filled with balance, harmony, and joy.
IMMORTAL ARTS QIGONG
Throughout my life, I have pursued excellence in sports, dedicating myself to becoming the best I could possibly be. My journey began with tennis and evolved into a deep love for martial arts, including Karate, Tang Soo Do, Muay Thai, Kung Fu, and Tai Chi. Martial arts became my world—a lifelong discipline that shaped my character and perspective. Over 36 years, I’ve trained with diverse schools and learned invaluable lessons, each experience contributing to my personal growth and enriching my understanding of life. These teachings instilled not only physical skills but also resilience, humility, and a profound sense of purpose.
In 2021, my journey entered a transformative new phase when I began studying with Sifu Jesse Lee Parker, founder of the Immortal Arts Academy. This system of Taoist Qigong stands out as a profound practice that bridges ancient Taoist wisdom with modern techniques for self-healing and spiritual development. Rooted in the rich traditions of Taoist philosophy, the Immortal Arts Academy offers a comprehensive approach to personal transformation, emphasizing harmony between the body, energy, and spirit.
In addition to Qigong, I am actively studying Hsing Yi, Neigong, and Taoist Inner Alchemy under Sifu Jesse’s guidance. Hsing Yi, with its emphasis on coordinated power and intent, has deepened my understanding of martial principles and their connection to internal energy. Taoist Inner Alchemy, on the other hand, focuses on cultivating and refining one’s internal energy (Qi) to achieve higher levels of physical vitality, emotional stability, and spiritual clarity. These practices, combined with the structured teachings of the Immortal Arts, offer a holistic and profound framework for self-discovery and growth.
As a dedicated student, my goal extends beyond personal mastery. I am committed to becoming a teacher who can inspire and guide others. By sharing the transformative practices of Qigong and the Taoist principles I’ve learned, I hope to empower others to embark on their own paths of self-discovery, balance, and fulfillment. Through teaching, I aim to foster a supportive space where individuals can unlock their potential and experience the profound benefits of this ancient wisdom in their daily lives.
