The Shen Foundation

For many years, I worked in the fast-paced world of finance, and later I built my own short-term rental company (eShortRental).

I wasn’t what you’d call a spiritual person back then—life was all about efficiency, productivity, and success. But in 2015, everything changed when I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. This wake-up call made me realize that if I wanted to live, I needed to make drastic changes in my life. ​

During my chemotherapy treatment, I discovered Qi Gong, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and it quickly became a lifeline. Practicing Qi Gong, particularly the 4Times4Health routine, was a revelation. These four small breaks during the day, aligned with the organic clock, allowed my body to rest, regenerate, and heal. By following these natural rhythms, I discovered the power of simply pausing—letting my body and mind breathe and recover. ​ At first, I thought these pauses were just about rest, but they turned out to be much more.

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As I integrated this routine in my daily life I became more calm and in harmony with myself. I learned that less is more and foremost I found my mission in life, to be here for others. This transformation made me learn to feel how my emotions and my thoughts have a direct impact with my health. I am now my own Sherlock Holmes of my thoughts, body and action. That’s when the idea to create a Community and Retreat Center, where 4T4H and mindful living with nature and with each other, came to life with a group of people with similar experiences.