About us
The windows of our home frame the green of the trees,
beautiful blossoms and the pond where ducks and a variety of birds make their home.
Olson Family
After spending two years teaching English near Barcelona, Spain, we moved to Tokyo in 1979. We've made our home in Tokyo since that time. Out of five members of our family, three were born in Japan (including LoAnne). At first, we taught English; learning Japanese and making friends were the first steps we took in getting our business going.
Within five years, the income from our business surpassed that of our English teaching. (The English school had just declared bankruptcy.) So with this "financial independence", we traveled around North America in an RV for a year, educated our children at private schools, and were able to buy our home in Tokyo. We also have been able to give support to schools and many other causes we believe in.
We are thankful to have three homes:
Tokyo - The windows of our home in Tokyo frame the green of the trees, cherry blossoms and the pond of our neighboring park – where ducks and a variety of birds make their home.
Nojiri - There is a jewel of a lake in the mountains of Nagano – Lake Nojiri. Our mountain house is part of an association, which includes tennis, golf, and swimming, biking, and sailing during the summer. We usually spend August there and enjoy spending great days with friends and associates. It's our SUMMER OFFICE!
Maui - In 1992, we had an opportunity to purchase a three-bedroom condo in Kihei, near Wailea. It has been such an inspiration to have a "home in the islands." We love the sunsets, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, whale watching, luaus, fish dinners near the beach, and on and on!! And we love sharing each of our homes!
Family Members
Stan─
After reading George Leonard and Mike Murphy`s book, "The Life We are Given", I started long-term integral practice as a way to support balanced growth. With my wife, LoAnne, I have done the kata for over five years. This kata includes a dedication and balancing; followed by movement to open joints and strengthen important muscle groups, then a deep muscle/mind relaxation training and goal visualization and finally meditation.
I also learned about using binaural beats – CD`s to enhance meditative practice. I do kiko/qigong 2-3 hours a day as a way of actualizing my goal of being an energy healer.
I enjoy aerobic training and weight training while repeating the mantra, "I love you, I’m sorry, please forgive me, thank you" -- from the ancient Hawaiian practice of Ho'opononpono. (See "Zero Limits" by Joe Vitale) This mantra also supports focus on breathing.
Finally, I continue to read various books on personal growth that I find interesting. The writings of Ken Wilber and his AQAL model – all quadrants (I/we/it/its) all levels, lines, stages, and types have been a base. More recently I've been studying the work of David Hawkins with his view of energy levels and energy testing and Donna Eden who works with both energy medicine and energy psychology.
Twice a month in our home we do what we call ITP/CB or Integral Transformative Practice and Community Building. This ITP/CB is held 10:30-4:30. Community building uses the work of Scott Peck using circle work or adult learning, listening practice, and speaking when moved to speak.
LoAnne─
I am also a big supporter of the things mentioned above. Thankful for the tangible changes that have taken place in my life, I love the practices and find myself naturally talking to people about these aspects. Recently the mantra from Ho'opononpono has become a deep part of my every day life -- as a way of learning to take responsibility for my life. I enjoy reading inspirational books and find music equally inspirational.
I like talking to new people; connecting me to lots of friends and business partners. I feel that with the business and the tools we are practicing, we can support and help others realize their unique potential and launch them on their road to "Freedom for Life". It has been our privilege to introduce and guide many people to achieve success in their lives.
I enjoy walking under the trees in the mountains and in the park near our home. And taking our dog, Jacqui, out to the park is a special joy. Having been trained well, Jacqui runs, chases balls and attracts the interest of nearby children. She is so gentle; they feel the love!
I like to swim. At the health club, yes, but more so at Nojiri – the mountain lake. Other pleasures are singing, playing the guitar, sewing, flowers, and enjoying a fine meal in a relaxed atmosphere with family, friends and business partners.
Our Children
Sofia─
Lives on a boat, and works in Seattle.
Maxwell─
Lives in Tokyo, is a model, DJ, and organizer of DOMO ARIGATO events in Tokyo.
Stig─
Lives in San Francisco with his wife, Jessica, and teaches physical education.