About Origin Institute

A Modern Institute Rooted in Living Lineage

a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational institute

Origin Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational institute dedicated to the preservation and transmission of Traditional Chinese Martial Arts and Qigong while advancing broader studies in human development, regenerative wellness, relational maturity, and spiritual cultivation.

The Institute exists to support individuals who seek disciplined pathways of practice, learning, and service in the world.

Training in Traditional Chinese Martial Arts and Qigong is guided by a faculty led by Master Roberto Baptista, whose decades of practice carry forward a living Shaolin lineage. Under his leadership, the Institute maintains authentic training standards while continuing to develop new educational pathways that integrate traditional cultivation with modern understanding.

Students come to the Institute to practice, study, and cultivate a life grounded in responsibility, strength, and meaningful contribution to the communities they serve.

Pictured left to right: Master Roberto Baptista (professor), David Drimmel (Founding Director)

Our Faculty

Our Mission

The mission of Origin Institute is to support and preserve inner cultivation both in practice and embodiment, while making these teachings accessible to individuals and communities around the world.

Through structured education, community practice, and responsible leadership development, the Institute prepares practitioners to carry forward the wisdom of internal arts and holistic cultivation in ways that benefit others.

This includes the development of instructors, wellness professionals, and community leaders who help transmit these teachings with integrity and care.

The long-term aim is not only personal transformation, but the strengthening of communities through disciplined practice, service, and ethical leadership.

The Educational Vision

Human development unfolds across several dimensions of life. The educational model of Origin Institute reflects this understanding by integrating both traditional cultivation methods and contemporary holistic studies.

Students are invited into a process of learning that develops physical vitality, emotional maturity, relational awareness, spiritual grounding, and the ability to contribute meaningfully in the world.

The Institute recognizes that a practitioner who wishes to guide others must first become a student that cultivates both personal depth and practical wisdom. For this reason, our programs support the development of individuals who are capable not only of practice but also of teaching, mentoring, and serving others through their work.

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The 4 pillars of study

Internal Arts

Traditional Chinese Martial Arts and Qigong form the foundation of the Institute. These practices cultivate health, vitality, discipline, and spiritual development through movement, breath, and focused awareness.

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Cultivated Wellness

Students explore holistic foundations of health that support long-term vitality and resilience in individuals and communities. These studies examine lifestyle, recovery, and sustainable wellness practices that allow individuals to care for their bodies and maintain balance in daily life.

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Relational Studies

Relational studies examine the deeper dimensions of human development, including relationship with the Primary Source, self-awareness, ethical responsibility, community, and spiritual maturity. These studies help practitioners cultivate clarity and responsibility in how they live and relate to others.

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Vocation & Providership

Exploring deeper foundations of human development — including relationship with the Primary Source, self, others, community, and leadership.

Together, these studies cultivate maturity, responsibility, and the capacity to guide others in meaningful ways.

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Master Roberto Baptista

Headmaster of Origin Institute (1964-Present)

Master Roberto is the living torchbearer of our rich lineage in Traditional Chinese Martial Arts and Qigong. With over 45 years of experience, he is a direct disciple of Grand Master Chan Kwok Wai and other esteemed masters. Inducted into the Wushu Hall of Fame in 2000, Master Roberto has taught Qìgōng, Taichi, and Kungfu to countless students worldwide. As the Headmaster of Origin Institute, he preserves the essence of ancient wisdom while guiding students through transformative practices rooted in our traditional lineages. His dedication to the art extends beyond the martial arts realm, fostering spiritual growth, health, and balance for all practitioners.

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Grand Master Chan Kwok Wai

Chén Guówěi (陳國偉)

Grand Master Chan (1936–2022) was a revered master of the lineage from which Master Roberto continues to teach. A highly respected figure in the world of Traditional Chinese Martial Arts, Master Chan dedicated his life to the study and transmission of

Qìgōng, Taichi, and, Kungfu. His teachings have influenced generations of martial artists, imparting both the technical skills and deep spiritual wisdom that are at the heart of the Origin Institute curriculum. Master Chan's legacy lives on through his students, who continue to honor his methods, teachings, and philosophy. His passing in 2019 marks the end of an era, but his profound impact on martial arts and spiritual growth endures.

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Rooted in Shaolin Tradition

Birthplace of the Buddhist Shaolin Temple (established 4th century CE)

The lineage of Origin Institute traces its origins back to the 11th century Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu and many foundational practices in Qìgōng and Taichi. This rich tradition has been preserved and passed down through generations of martial artists, including our Headmaster, Master Roberto Baptista. Our teachings are deeply rooted in the ancient wisdom of the Shaolin monks, combining martial arts with spiritual cultivation. This lineage represents not just physical or martial techniques, but a holistic approach to life — one that fosters health, balance, and spiritual growth.

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Who Studies here

Students of the Institute come from many backgrounds and walks of life.

Some arrive seeking deeper personal practice and health. Others come with experience in martial arts, wellness professions, or spiritual study. Many continue their training over years and eventually take on roles supporting others through teaching, mentorship, and community leadership.

The Institute welcomes individuals who approach practice with sincerity, humility, and a willingness to cultivate both skill and character.

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The Long-Term Vision

Origin Institute is being developed as a long-term educational institution capable of preserving lineage teachings while preparing practitioners to serve communities worldwide.

As the Institute grows, its vision includes the establishment of a physical temple location where hands-on training and community-based projects can flourish.

This future environment will support in-person study of Traditional Chinese Martial Arts and Qigong alongside additional disciplines such as permaculture, feng shui, and other practices that contribute to regenerative community life.

Through both digital and physical spaces, the Institute seeks to cultivate practitioners who embody the values of discipline, service, and responsible leadership.