Opening the Circle: How Wise Educators Welcome Outside Insight

As someone who has spent a lifetime immersed in holistic health, martial arts, qigong, and Eastern traditions, and authored 30 books on these subjects, I’ve encountered a curious dynamic when trying to share my work with fellow educators, programs, and organizations in the field.

Some colleagues and group leaders have wholeheartedly embraced my books, integrating them into their programs and recommending them to their students as complementary resources. These individuals and institutions see value in offering a broader lens and deeper tools, without fear of comparison or competition. They understand that true education isn’t about controlling a student’s learning but about nurturing it. However, not everyone responds this way.

Some instructors, schools, and even entire systems appear hesitant to recommend or promote my work or that of others outside of their bubble. In certain cases, there seems to be an unspoken fear. A fear that perhaps their students will see gaps in their own curriculum or discover new or more complete skills and insights not offered in their current learning path. It’s as though by acknowledging an external source of knowledge, they feel their authority or cohesion might be challenged.

This has raised an important question that others working in fields of mastery and personal development may also face:

How do we navigate the tension between sharing our work and respecting the insecurities it may awaken in others?

Ego in the Path of Learning

In the very traditions many of us teach, ego is framed as the primary obstacle to growth. Yet even in practices designed to transcend ego, such as tai chi, meditation, and internal martial arts, ego often remains hidden in plain sight. A teacher or institution may subtly discourage external learning, not because the material lacks value, but because they feel exposed or threatened by it.

The deeper truth is this: a student’s growth should never be seen as a threat to a teacher’s role or a program’s identity. If anything, it’s a testament to the strength of their foundational guidance. When leaders cling to authority at the expense of their students’ evolution, they ultimately hinder the very progress their mission was meant to support.

The Role of Loyalty and Closed Systems

Another dimension that often goes unspoken is the role of loyalty. A quality that, while admirable, can sometimes limit a student’s growth when tied to overly hierarchical or ideologically rigid systems.

In some organizations, students are immersed in highly structured environments where authority is concentrated, hierarchies are strict, and questioning the curriculum is discouraged. These groups often cultivate a deep sense of allegiance, whether to a teacher, lineage, ideology, or system. This loyalty can create a powerful psychological barrier, making students feel that seeking information elsewhere is a form of betrayal.

When this dynamic becomes dominant, students may become hesitant to explore new resources, even when those resources are directly aligned with their path of growth. Out of respect or fear, they remain in a tightly controlled learning environment, sometimes unaware of how limited their exposure has become.

This kind of immersion often leads to echo chambers, where the same concepts, styles, and interpretations are reinforced over and over. While repetition is a valid and often necessary method of training, when it replaces diversity of thought and cross-pollination of ideas, the result is stagnation, both intellectually and spiritually.

From Competition to Collaboration

The mindset that views another’s work as a threat is rooted in scarcity: the idea that there’s only so much wisdom, attention, or recognition to go around. But those of us who have walked these paths know better. Real mastery breeds humility and a sense of abundance. There is always more to explore, more to share, and more to co-create together.

That’s why I’ve shifted my focus toward collaboration with those who operate from an open, growth-oriented paradigm. To teachers, schools, organizations, and systems that view education as a dynamic and shared mission, and not a personal or ideological pedestal. These “out of the box” thinkers are actively transforming how knowledge is shared, empowering their students with rich, multidimensional resources that enhance the learning journey.

Reframing the Message

To support this shift, I’ve worked to frame my books as teaching companions, not replacements. They’re meant to enhance the student experience, deepen understanding of nuanced principles, and provide historical and philosophical context that may not fit into the rhythm of regular classes or structured programs.

Some schools and instructors have even offered to write forewords for custom editions or bundle my books into their recommended reading lists, helping students understand how the material supports, not replaces their core instruction.

Creating Supportive Alliances

Rather than positioning my work as something to be adopted with hesitation, I aim to foster supportive alliances or mutual relationships with like-minded educators and organizations who are excited about sharing resources for the benefit of the student body. This spirit of collaboration builds trust and empowers everyone involved.

Sometimes, these collaborations emerge through casual conversations, mutual respect, or shared experiences. Other times, they’re sparked by a school or group seeking to expand its curriculum without reinventing the wheel. My books are here to serve those needs. They are carefully written and researched, richly illustrated, and grounded in lived experience.

Direct to the Seeker

At the same time, I recognize that today’s students are often independent seekers, driven not only by the structure of a school or system, but by curiosity and personal growth. These individuals pursue knowledge through other teachers, books, online resources, workshops, and direct inquiry. They are the ones finding my materials, using them to deepen their practice, and reaching out with appreciation and questions.

And that’s where my focus continues to grow in serving the serious student, the progressive educator, school, or wellness program that wants to support them.

Closing Thoughts

If anyone has created something meaningful, rooted in truth and cultivated through experience, it will find its audience. Not everyone will embrace it at first. Some may resist it. But the people and organizations that are ready will not only welcome it, but they’ll also help it flourish. In time, the strength of offering additional resources will speak louder than any insecurity.

I look forward to further sharing more of my message by partnering with hospitals, wellness centers, VA centers, schools on all levels, businesses, and individuals who see the value in building a stronger nation through building a healthier population.

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

The Eight Keys of Wisdom

The Eight Keys of Wisdom are rooted in Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist principles, such as:

Wu Wei (Effortless Action) in Taoism, similar to “Be Like Bamboo” (flexibility and balance).
Right Conduct and Ethics in Confucianism, similar to “The True-Right-Correct Method.”
Mindfulness and Detachment from Thought in Buddhism are reflected in “Stop Being Drunk on Your Own Thoughts.”

The Eight Keys of Wisdom serve as guiding principles for integrating mindfulness and meditation into daily life. Here’s a deeper look at each:

1. Reflection (Know Your True Self)

This key emphasizes self-awareness and authenticity.
It encourages recognizing personal strengths, weaknesses, and emotional patterns.
Understanding oneself allows for conscious decision-making and alignment with one’s true nature.

2. Make Correct Choices (The True-Right-Correct Method)

Rooted in Eastern philosophy, this principle teaches the importance of seeking truth and making ethical choices.
“True” represents inner wisdom, “Right” signifies ethical action, and “Correct” ensures that actions align with both personal integrity and universal balance.

3. Overcome Delusion (Stop Being Drunk on Your Own Thoughts)

Encourages detachment from overthinking and emotional reactivity.
Teaches mindfulness techniques to observe thoughts without being consumed by them.
Helps develop clarity and inner calm by breaking free from habitual negative thinking.

4. How Will You Be Remembered? (Plant Good Seeds)

Invites reflection on one’s legacy and the impact of actions on others.
Encourages living with purpose, kindness, and awareness of how one’s presence affects the world.
Turn on your light, becoming an inspiration and not a warning to others

5. Seek Connectedness & Honor (Be Like a Mountain)

Focuses on building meaningful relationships through respect, integrity, and compassion.
Recognizes the interconnectedness of all people and the importance of honoring those connections.
Teaches that true strength comes from unity rather than isolation.

6. Change Your Reality for the Better

Encourages personal responsibility in shaping one’s experiences.
Highlights the power of perspective—choosing optimism and proactive behavior over victimhood.
Teaches how shifting internal attitudes can influence external circumstances.

7. Become a Vessel of Wisdom (It Only Takes One Match to Light a Thousand)

Demonstrates the power of small actions in creating widespread change.
Encourages leading by example, where one positive act can inspire many others.
Stresses that transformation begins with individual effort, no matter how small.

8. Draw from Nature’s Energies (Be Like Bamboo)

Symbolizes resilience, flexibility, and strength.
Encourages adaptability in the face of challenges while maintaining inner strength.
Teaches that true power lies in balance, being strong yet flexible, firm yet yielding.

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

Announcing a Powerful Collaboration for Inner and Outer Transformation

After decades of study, practice, and teaching, I’ve come to a simple but powerful truth: personal transformation is possible. through committed effort, self-reflection, and time-proven methods that honor both the body and the spirit.

For over 40 years, I’ve dedicated my life to exploring and sharing the profound wisdom of holistic health, qigong, tai chi, martial arts, and traditional Eastern systems of healing and self-realization. These practices were once dismissed as esoteric or somewhat “out there,” but have never been more relevant. In a culture dominated by distraction, disconnection, and stress, they offer a lifeline back to balance, clarity, strength, and peace.

Today, I’m excited to share something new. A step forward in expanding the reach of this message.

I’m partnering with Nic Peterson (https:/www.nicpeterson.com/) a respected lineage holder of the Gray Wolf Clan, whose commitment to mastery, stewardship, and the preservation of traditional wisdom deeply aligns with my own. Nic recently wrote a powerful foreword for a private-label edition of one of my foundational works, newly titled Internal Alchemy: The Gray Wolf Guide to Body, Mind, and Consciousness. His contribution reflects the values we both hold dear of humility in teaching, discipline in practice, and the profound responsibility that comes with authentic knowledge.

We come from a warrior–scholar–sage tradition. Our masters are healers and fighters, philosophers and practitioners. They are as capable of restoring life as they are of taking it. Many other masters and grandmasters, though unnamed, have left their mark here too. That’s the nature of a true lineage: the teachings carry many hands, many voices.

Internal Alchemy is not a light read. It is a manual that is quite dense, and a deliberate reference that can (and should) be returned to time and again. Each page could be unpacked over days of study. It’s not meant to be skimmed; it’s meant to be integrated.

Alongside Nic, I am also honored to acknowledge the contributions of two remarkable individuals:

Michael Leone, my friend, peer, and sometimes teacher, a doctor of Chinese medicine, and a true warrior-scholar-sage, has been the wellspring of much of the knowledge this book is built upon. His insight into internal energetics, martial arts, and the healing systems of the East has deeply shaped my own understanding and practice. His teachings live within every page of Internal Alchemy, and his guidance continues to inform and inspire everything I share. Michael can be reached at: https://zenwellness.com/

Jason Campbell, a highly recognized teacher, musician, and meditation guide, adds a profound layer to this collaboration. His work bridges the gap between ancient practices and modern lives, using sound, rhythm, and stillness to create doorways into deeper awareness. His presence in this effort expands our ability to reach those seeking peace not just in body and mind, but also in spirit and daily life. Jason’s works can be found at: https://www.jasoncampbellmusic.com/

Together, we represent a community of practitioners who believe that ancient knowledge must be preserved, respected, and made relevant in the modern age. Our collaboration is a commitment to serving the global community of seekers who value depth over trends, practice over theory, and legacy over ego.

Internal Alchemy is more than a book. It’s a living transmission of teachings designed to support your path toward self-mastery and inner freedom. Whether you are a beginner or a lifelong practitioner, we invite you to join us on this journey.

If you feel the call to the mountain, to the stillness, to something deeper within, you’re already on the path.

To learning, growing, and giving back.

Jim Moltzan
Author, Educator, Practitioner

I teach and offer lectures about holistic health, physical fitness, stress management, human behavior, meditation, phytotherapy (herbs), music for healing, self-massage (acupressure), Daoyin (yoga), qigong, tai chi, and baguazhang.

Please contact me if you, your business, organization, or group, might be interested in hosting me to speak on a wide spectrum of topics relative to better health, fitness, and well-being.

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

The Great American Contradiction: Why We Say One Thing and Do Another

My posts are mostly about holistic health, wellness, and various methods to achieve balance in our lives. Human behavior or psychology are subjects I have delved deeper into, as our behavior dramatically affects our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

The United States is a nation built on ideals of freedom, opportunity, and justice, but beneath these principles lies a web of contradictions. Many Americans know systemic issues, broken systems, and political dysfunction, yet they often feel powerless to enact meaningful change. Some believe they have no viable alternatives, while others simply don’t care as long as the consequences don’t affect them directly. Lack of agency (ability to act and make choices independently) and lack of control (exerting power or influence over others or outcomes) can have deep psychological effects, leading to many chronic cognitive ailments such as depression, anxiety, insecurity, and others. It’s time for a collective reckoning. Perhaps it’s time to ask not just, “Are we part of the problem?” but also, “What can we do to be part of the solution?”

Here’s a closer look at some of the most glaring contradictions or cognitive dissonance (the discomfort of holding conflicting beliefs or values) in American society, grouped by their interrelated themes:

🏛️ Government and Political Dysfunction

1. Term Limits vs. Career Politicians

There is widespread support for imposing term limits on politicians, yet career politicians dominate Washington. Many Americans believe fresh perspectives would benefit governance, but efforts to enforce limits consistently stall. Voters complain about corruption but continue re-electing the same people.

2. Politicians and Insider Trading vs. Public Trust

Most Americans believe politicians should not benefit from insider trading, yet cases of elected officials profiting from privileged information persist. Despite this, the same politicians often get re-elected. We claim to detest corruption but keep endorsing those who abuse their positions.

3. Foreign Wars vs. Public Opinion

A large portion of the population opposes foreign military interventions, yet the U.S. remains entangled in conflicts worldwide. Public sentiment rarely translates into policy changes, highlighting the disconnect between the will of the people and government actions.

4. Perceived Misuse of Tax Dollars vs. Continued Compliance

Taxpayers express frustration over how their money is spent, with glaring examples of inefficiency and corruption. For instance, California spent $24 billion to address homelessness, yet the crisis has only worsened. In November 2024, the Pentagon failed to pass its annual audit, meaning that it wasn’t able to fully account for how its $824 billion budget was used. This was the 7th failed audit in a row, since the Department of Defense became required to undergo yearly audits in 2018. Despite this, people continue paying taxes while feeling powerless to demand accountability.

5. Daylight Saving Time vs. Public Opinion

Twice a year, Americans grumble about the disruption caused by changing the clocks. Studies show that daylight saving time may increase health risks and reduce productivity, yet it persists. Despite widespread dissatisfaction, legislative inertia keeps the practice alive.

6. Limited Political Choices vs. Frustration with the Two-Party System

Americans lament the lack of political diversity and the stranglehold of the two-party system, yet alternative parties remain marginalized. Even though many feel disillusioned, they continue to choose between the “lesser of two evils.” Real change remains elusive because the system favors the status quo.

💰 Economics and Consumer Behavior

7. Support for Public Education vs. Private School Enrollment

Public education is hailed as the cornerstone of equal opportunity, yet families who can afford it often opt for private schooling. This creates a disconnect between advocating for public education and personal choices that contribute to inequality.

8. Supporting Local Businesses vs. Shopping Online

We talk about the importance of supporting local businesses, yet giants like Amazon, Walmart, and Starbucks continue to dominate, often putting small businesses out of business. Convenience, competitive pricing, and free shipping lure consumers away from their local economies.

9. Income Inequality vs. Celebrity Worship

While many decry income inequality and the wealth gap, America remains obsessed with celebrity culture and extravagant lifestyles. This fascination with the ultra-wealthy perpetuates distorted perceptions of success and value.

10. Perceived Value vs. Price Sensitivity

Consumers often complain about the declining quality of goods and services but continue purchasing cheap, mass-produced items instead of supporting higher-quality alternatives. The desire for instant gratification and low prices outweighs long-term sustainability.

🏥 Health, Lifestyle, and Well-Being

11. Fast Food Consumption vs. Health Awareness

We know fast food is unhealthy. Obesity, diabetes, and other ailments continue to soar, yet fast-food chains thrive. Parents claim they care about their children’s health but often default to convenience, feeding them processed foods while allowing endless hours of screen time. Nutrition takes a backseat to ease, and the consequences are generational.

12. Sedentary Lifestyles vs. Advocacy for Healthy Living

We advocate for fitness, movement, and healthy living, yet modern lifestyles promote sedentary habits such as long hours at desks, excessive screen time, and minimal physical activity. Knowledge doesn’t always translate to action.

13. Healthcare System Criticism vs. Reliance on It

Americans recognize that the healthcare system is broken, yet they remain reliant on it. Pharmaceutical companies flood the media with advertisements, influencing consumers and doctors alike. Few healthcare professionals advocate for changes in lifestyle, diet, and exercise favoring “a pill for every ill.” The system favors profits over people, but viable alternatives are scarce, leaving many trapped in a cycle of dependency.

14. Body Positivity vs. Unrealistic Beauty Standards

The body positivity movement advocates for acceptance and inclusivity, but media, advertising, and Hollywood continue to promote unrealistic beauty standards. Thinness, youth, and perfection remain the ideal, perpetuating negative body image and self-esteem issues.

15. Desire for Work-Life Balance vs. Overworking Culture

Many Americans yearn for a better work-life balance, yet the culture of overwork persists. Long hours, limited vacation time, and a “hustle mentality” lead to burnout and mental health struggles. We value personal well-being in theory but often sacrifice it in practice.

🌎 Environment and Sustainability

16. Environmental Awareness vs. Consumerism

Many Americans express concern about climate change and environmental degradation but continue consuming at unsustainable levels. Convenience, affordability, and habit often override sustainable choices. The “Not in My Backyard” (NIMBY) mentality prevails, as people want solutions without altering their lifestyles.

17. Recycling Rhetoric vs. Minimal Action

Americans advocate for recycling and environmental protection, yet most recycling programs are underutilized or ineffective. Many items placed in recycling bins end up in landfills, and people often lack awareness of proper recycling practices.

🔒 Privacy, Technology, and Social Isolation

18. Privacy Concerns vs. Social Media Addiction

Many express concerns over privacy and data security in the digital age, yet millions willingly share intimate details of their lives on platforms that harvest personal data. We fear surveillance but continue scrolling, liking, and posting. Convenience and entertainment often outweigh the fear of losing control over our private information.

19. Spam, Telemarketers, and Privacy Violations vs. Acceptance of Invasions

Americans complain about the relentless onslaught of spam calls, telemarketers, and digital intrusions, yet many accept these invasions as a normal part of modern life. We express frustration over privacy violations but rarely take steps to secure our information or demand accountability from corporations that exploit personal data.

20. Community Engagement vs. Social Isolation

Americans value community engagement and connection, yet the rise of digital communication and urbanization has led to increased social isolation. We crave connection but often retreat into virtual worlds, losing the sense of belonging that real communities provide. We see electronic devices as babysitters for children and adults alike, and then wonder why so many are depressed, anxious, and unable to be comfortable in real-life social settings.

21. Mistrust of Big Tech vs. Dependence on It

Americans frequently express mistrust of big tech companies, citing concerns about monopolies, privacy, and censorship. Yet, dependence on platforms like Google, Facebook, and Amazon remains pervasive. We resent their power but rely on their convenience.

⚖️ Ethics, Morality, and Social Justice

22. Human Rights Advocacy vs. Selective Outrage

Many advocate for human rights and justice but remain selective in their outrage, often influenced by political affiliations or cultural biases. Genuine concern for equality should transcend partisanship, yet inconsistencies persist.

23. Religious Values vs. Material Pursuits

America prides itself on being a nation of faith, yet materialism and consumerism often overshadow spiritual values. Many profess religious beliefs but prioritize wealth, status, and success over moral and ethical principles.

24. Public Demand for Change vs. Fear of Disruption

Perhaps the most significant contradiction is that while Americans express a desire for change, they also fear the disruption that change may bring. Breaking free from familiar systems requires effort, sacrifice, and discomfort—something many are unwilling to endure.

🪶 Historical Amnesia and Disregard for the Marginalized

25. The Forgotten Victims: Native Americans and Historical Amnesia

America celebrates its history of freedom and democracy while ignoring the ongoing consequences of genocide and displacement inflicted on Native American communities. Treaties were broken, lands were stolen, and entire cultures were nearly erased. Yet, mainstream narratives often gloss over these atrocities, perpetuating historical amnesia. The plight of Native Americans remains a footnote in history books, even as they continue to face systemic inequalities.

26. Advocacy for Social Justice vs. Ignoring Indigenous Struggles

While advocating for social justice and equality, many overlook the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities. Issues such as land sovereignty, environmental degradation, and broken treaties remain unresolved, highlighting a glaring inconsistency in America’s commitment to justice.

🔍 A Nation at a Crossroads

America’s contradictions are not just individual dilemmas—they reflect the collective psyche of a nation grappling with competing values and desires. To move forward, we must confront these inconsistencies with honesty and courage. True change starts not just by acknowledging these contradictions but by taking deliberate action to align our values with our behavior. “Change the world!” “Fix the system!”

Instead: Are we ready to face the mirror? How about changing ourselves?

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

“True words are seldom kind. Kind words are seldom true”

The statement, “True words are seldom kind. Kind words are seldom true,” reflects the dynamic interplay of yin and yang, as well as the balance between truth (emotion) and rightness (logic), with correctness emerging as their synthesis.

Yin and Yang in Truth and Kindness

Truth (Yang – Hard, Objective, Direct): Truth is clear and straightforward, focusing on facts rather than perceptions. It aligns with the logical aspect of “rightness,” emphasizing what is accurate over emotional considerations. Similar to yang, truth clarifies reality without prioritizing comfort.

Kindness (Yin – Soft, Subjective, Nurturing): Kindness is based on empathy and the emotional aspect of interactions. It often aims to soften the impact of truth to maintain harmony and relationships. This relates to the emotional side of “truthfulness,” focusing on how something feels rather than its factual accuracy. Similar to yin, kindness nurtures and soothes, sometimes prioritizing comfort over complete disclosure.

Correctness as Balance

Neither extreme of blunt truth nor gentle avoidance leads to effective communication. The optimal form of communication balances emotional sensitivity and logical correctness. Wisdom involves knowing when to emphasize accuracy, when to offer empathy, and how to integrate both aspects. Similar to how yin and yang transform under specific conditions, truth can be softened by kindness without compromising its integrity, while kindness can convey truth without becoming misleading. The skill of achieving balance lies in articulating what is true appropriately, ensuring it is both logically accurate and emotionally resonant.

Real-Life Examples of Truth vs. Kindness

Balanced (Correct – Yin-Yang): “I see your potential, and I think with some focused effort in these areas, you could perform at a higher level. I’d love to help you get there.”

Health & Well-Being:

Pure Truth (Yang): A doctor bluntly tells a patient, “You are dangerously overweight, and you need to lose weight immediately, or you risk serious health issues.”

Pure Kindness (Yin): “You’re perfect just the way you are. Don’t worry about your weight.”

Balanced (Correct – Yin-Yang): “Your health is important, and I want to support you in making changes that will help you feel better and live longer.”

Relationships & Personal Growth:

Pure Truth (Yang): A friend tells another, “Your behavior is selfish, and that’s why people distance themselves from you.”

Pure Kindness (Yin): “You’re wonderful just as you are. Everyone should accept you without question.”

Balanced (Correct – Yin-Yang): “I value you as a friend, and I’ve noticed that some of your actions push people away. Would you be open to talking about ways to strengthen your relationships?”

Work & Professional Feedback:

Pure Truth (Yang): A boss tells an employee, “Your work is subpar, and you might not last here if you don’t improve.”

Pure Kindness (Yin): “You’re doing just fine, no worries!” (even when the work needs improvement).

Balanced (Correct – Yin-Yang): “I see your potential, and I think with some focused effort in these areas, you could perform at a higher level. I’d love to help you get there.”