The expo was held May 17, 18, and 19 at Lakehead University's Avila Center.
THUNDER BAY – The Martial Arts and Health Expo is designed to provide valuable resources to help practitioners achieve their goals, regardless of skill level or experience.
We offer you the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and instructors.
“We're really excited to welcome people from across Canada, and even international visitors from the United States, as presenters and participants at our expo,” said Susan Baldassi, expo coordinator. Ta.
He added that several presenters came from across the United States as well as from Calgary, Dryden, Winnipeg, Windsor and Ottawa.
The expo was held from May 17th to 19th at Lakehead University's Avila Center.
There were martial arts demonstrations and workshops, health and wellness seminars and discussions, banquets, fire pit gatherings, and performances by taiko drummers and local musicians.
Baldassi said it has been a great weekend of connections and community building so far.
“I feel that martial arts really helps you grow as a person. There are so many aspects beyond the physical,” she said.
“Being physical can help your overall health. But it's also a partnership and supporting each other, and the goals and connections we make can be just as helpful. Sitting by the fire and s'mores.” Burning is just as important as winning the next belt.''
“I encourage anyone who is interested in trying out a session or attending a sound meditation or mindset talk to come and give it a try. See if it resonates, and it might spark a new passion,” she said.
Some of the participating instructors said they always look forward to attending the expo.
“I haven't been out in a while, the last time was about 10 years ago,” said Matt Morin, an instructor from Ottawa. “It's definitely getting better and better. I really enjoyed this time.” “The expo will help me expand my skills and pass them on.”
Michelle O'Leary, another instructor from Ottawa, Ont., added that there is always something different to learn.
“We’re looking forward to it,” she said. “This event brings together a lot of different people who probably wouldn't have become friends or gotten to know each other otherwise.”
O'Leary began studying martial arts and health at the age of eight. She said it taught her how to have her confidence and how to be herself.
“We come from different places and share experiences. We laugh a lot, we cry, and then we have heart-to-heart discussions. It's just a balanced and healing weekend,” she said. .
If you are looking for more information or are interested in getting involved with Martial Arts and Health, please visit the Martial Arts and Health Expo Facebook page or contact Susan at Tbayexpo@gmail.com .
