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Writer's pictureEssential Life Academy

Empowerment in Action: The Journey of Tasha Ina Church

Updated: Jan 25



What Makes You Feel Beautiful - National Personal Self-Defense Awareness Month Special Feature

In the heart of Maui, amidst its lush landscapes and vibrant communities, a movement of empowerment and self-defense is growing, led by an extraordinary woman. 

This National Personal Self-Defense Awareness Month, "What Makes You Feel Beautiful" shines a light on one woman’s  journey and her mission to empower women through the art of self-defense.

Few shine as brightly as Tasha Ina Church, a beacon of strength and resilience. Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Tasha is a member of the Stó:lō Nation, Tasha's multifaceted role as an entrepreneur, coach, author, and mentor has touched lives globally. This feature delves into her inspiring journey.


Raised in Washington by two teachers for parents, Tasha's childhood was steeped in the concept of lifelong learning. Tasha lived near the Puyallup Tribe and was an adopted member of the Stó:lō Nation, Tasha was deeply connected to her indigenous culture and heritage. Her mother, an elder and adopted daughter to the Stó:lō Medicine Woman, traveled the US and Canada doing indigenous healing work and they helped Tasha foster a deep belief in self-healing and empowerment, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors.


From Vulnerability to Strength

Tasha, a Maui local, has transformed her own experiences into a powerful tool for change. She recalls, "There was a time when I felt vulnerable and afraid. That's when I realized the importance of empowerment self-defense – not just as a physical skill but as a source of inner strength and confidence." This realization was the seed that grew into her successful local business, an empowerment company dedicated to teaching women and girls empowerment self-defense, self-care, and self-healing. She wanted to offer tools on how to protect themselves and find their inner strength. 



Empowerment Coaching

At the core of Tasha's work is her Empowerment Coaching, ElleLiveAction. With over two decades of experience, she has guided over 12,000 students worldwide since 2022, empowering them to become their own heroes. Her unique coaching style blends traditional knowledge with modern strategies.


Martial Arts Journey

Tasha's martial arts pedigree is impressive, having trained under luminaries like Jeff Alexander and Arlene Limas. Her study of Aikido, along with experience in multiple martial arts forms, underpins her approach to non-violent self-defense and empowerment.


Overcoming Challenges

Tasha's life has not been without its trials. Her own experiences with stalkers and violence have fueled her passion for teaching self-defense, transforming personal adversity into a force for positive change.



Mission and Values

Her mission extends beyond self-defense; it's about instilling confidence and trust within individuals, particularly women and marginalized communities. Her core values – Integrity, Resiliency, Passion – resonate throughout her work.


Inspirations

Influenced by her parents' dedication to community service and her best friend Erin Jones's trailblazing spirit, She finds motivation in the strength and achievements of those around her.

Future Goals

Tasha's vision of success is deeply personal – it's about nurturing long-term relationships, teaching life-saving skills, and maintaining peace amidst life's storms. She aspires to continue impacting lives across the globe.

Tasha's story is a testament to the power of turning vulnerability into strength. Her dedication to empowering women through self-defense is not just teaching physical skills; it's nurturing a culture of confidence and resilience. In Tasha's words, "Every woman deserves to feel strong, safe, and beautiful. That's what we strive for every day."



Celebrating Every Victory

At "What Makes You Feel Beautiful," we believe in celebrating every step women take towards empowerment. Tasha's journey and her commitment to teaching empowerment self-defense is a shining example of how one person's passion can ignite a movement. Let's honor her work and the work of all women who make a difference in their communities.


As we celebrate National Personal Self-Defense Awareness Month, let's take a moment to reflect on what makes us feel beautiful. It's not just about physical appearance; it's about feeling safe, strong, and empowered in our own skin. Tasha's story and her mission in Maui remind us of the profound impact empowerment-based self-defense can have on our lives. Let's embrace this spirit of empowerment and carry it forward, not just this month, but every day.

"Empowerment is not just learned; it's lived. Join us in this journey of self-discovery and strength." - Tasha, Maui's self-defense instructor and a beacon of female empowerment.


We encourage you to take a step towards your own empowerment. Explore local self-defense classes, educate yourself about personal safety, and most importantly, believe in your own strength and beauty. Remember, empowerment begins with you.


Contact and Additional Information

For those inspired by Tasha's story and seeking to learn more

Connect with Tasha Church and Her Mission:



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Malin Åhman
Malin Åhman
Jan 17

Wonderful and inspirational introduction of a woman of beauty and empowerment! I hope we will meet some day! <3

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