BIO

Cris Caivano, M.A.

I am an exercise/movement therapist, certified Qigong instructor, and author.  Originally trained in classical ballet and modern dance, I attended SUNY Purchase. In 1978 I joined the Continuing Education faculty there, teaching jazz dance for the next 11 years while also choreographing and performing in NYC. 

After receiving an MA in Dance Education from Columbia University in 1989, I refocused my work, studying dance therapy at the Laban Institute in London. I then created and ran dance/movement therapy programs at two psychiatric hospitals in Sacramento, CA. Upon returning to NYC in 1991, I began my private practice as an exercise/movement therapist. In 2006, I was commissioned to write the book Strength Training Over 50 (Barrons Educational). It was published in 6 languages, and republished by Dover Press in 2018 as Strength Training, Staying Fit and Fabulous.

In 2013 I received my Qigong teaching certification from the Santa Cruz Chi Center, under Lee Holden. I continue to study with him, as well as with Robert Peng, Kenneth Cohen, and Mimi Kuo-Deemer. Chungliang Al Huang has also had an important influence on my work. Recently, I have taught at Kripalu, Stockbridge, MA, and implemented Qigong programs for women in recovery through the MHA Recovery Center, Dutchess County, NY. I offer Qigong workshops and events throughout the Northeast, as well as Qigong classes online through my website criscaivano.com.

Combining my background in dance, therapeutic movement, and teaching with the principles of Qigong, keeps me inspired and motivated. As I continue to explore the intricacies of whole-person health, I am excited to share with my students the ever-growing evidence that supports these ancient practices!