Simple Truths
As we move into a new season at Deep Root Center, we’re grounding into a few simple truths: progress takes time, community care is part of training, and the path gets clearer when we keep showing up.
Roots of Change Comic — Episode 4: The Empty Cup
Our newest Roots of Change episode explores a pattern many of us recognize: when we arrive full of certainty, we miss what’s being offered.
In Episode 4: The Empty Cup, you’ll see Master Sheldon’s training arc begin to unfold—how lessons from different teachers can feel disconnected at first, then suddenly integrate years later through continued practice.
New Phone Number (SMS Concierge)
We have a new phone number—and it will primarily be used for SMS/texting, so you can get questions answered quickly by our new concierge.
Save this number: (888) 499-5095
Temple Beautification — Saturday, March 14, 2026
The Temple is more than a place where we train—it’s a living environment shaped by the community’s presence, care, and practice.
This beautification gathering will focus on design and light construction, including adding shelves and upgrading doors.
When: Saturday, March 14, 2026
Where: 1244 23rd Ave, Oakland, CA 94606
Who: All students and community members are welcome
Note: Registration is required to confirm attendance
Supportive donations are also welcome (hand soap, paper towels, toilet paper, trash bags).
Register here: https://www.thedeeproot.org/beautification
Final Three Treasures Workshop
The Three Treasures Workshop Series continues with teachings designed to build internal awareness, support sacred self-care, and bring forward “secrets from the temple” that help practitioners deepen their relationship to mind, body, and spirit.
Learn more and secure your spot here: https://www.thedeeproot.org/pl/244955
New: Our History Page
We’ve published a new History page to help you (and new students) understand how Deep Root Center came to be—and what we’re here to protect and pass on.
If you’ve ever wondered about our roots, our lineage, or the journey that shaped this space, take a few minutes to read it here:
Temple Guardians — The Role
Temple Guardians are invited stewards of the training space.
They’re selected because of their dedication to the work, their ethics, and the way they support the community in quiet, consistent ways:
- They’re good practice partners
- They’re helpful without overreaching
- They’re welcoming to everyone who comes to train
- They help keep the temple in good order
They’re trusted and trained enough to share the practice when the teacher is away
A Temple Guardian role is not about martial level, though your level can reflect commitment over time. It’s also not self-appointed. Guardians aren’t public-facing titles, and they aren’t guaranteed.
At its heart, the relationship is simple: responsibility and care for the container.
Who Are the Temple Guardians?
Announcing Our Temple Guardians
This season, we want to recognize the following Temple Guardians:
- Aaron Kindig
- Shereel Washington
- Mani Simons
If you’re in our Online Community, you’ll see their profiles marked with the Fei Hu badge.
Inner Circle Format Change (Important Update)
Inner Circle is shifting from an open membership to an invite-only community for practitioners, aligned with the Deep Root progression model. Currently, everyone is still welcome to join, but that opportunity is soon ending.
This change isn’t about limiting access but about fostering a stronger sense of belonging, deeper integration, and alignment with guided training paths. In essence, Inner Circle is becoming a space recognized for achievement, rather than just a tier you pay for.
Previously, Inner Circle was a subscription level; now, it will be a smaller, more focused group for practitioners that encourages meaningful dialogue and serves as a bridge between general students and more advanced mentorship opportunities.
The open enrollment period will conclude by the end of this quarter. After that, the price will increase for latecomers, and the community will be invite-only moving forward.
Student Spotlight — Aaron Kindig
Aaron joined Shaolin Life in May 2019 after difficult experiences in other martial arts spaces. He describes finding Deep Root welcoming—simple on the surface, but profound in what it reveals over time.
Through consistent practice, Aaron has improved posture, strength, and flexibility, and learned to manage pain more effectively. Coming from a troubled background and 25 years of substance abuse, he credits training for helping him live in the present—and for supporting real change that extends beyond the mat.
Support Our Mission
Deep Root Center for Spiritual Studies has been serving Oakland since 2006, creating a welcoming space for spiritual growth, martial arts, and community wellness.
Our programs transform lives—helping students like Aaron find balance, resilience, and connection.
As a small nonprofit, we rely on the support of our community to keep our doors open, offer scholarships, and expand our programs. Your contribution will help us cover essential expenses, improve facilities, and reach more people seeking healing and growth.
If you’d like to help sustain and grow our mission, please consider supporting our fundraiser— Master Sheldon
Every gift, large or small, makes a real difference and is tax-deductible. Thank you for being part of our story.
Your Voice Matters
This newsletter is your space as much as it is ours. In every issue, we highlight stories, insights, and opportunities for involvement. Have an idea, question, or story to share? We invite you to contribute—your perspective helps shape the living tradition of Deep Root.
Thank you for being part of this vibrant community. Every step you take—on and off the mat—strengthens our collective foundation. We look forward to seeing you at the next gathering and to all the discoveries ahead.
Responses