Benjamin began Training in Martial Arts with Five Realms in 2014, 2 weeks after having a total hip replacement. He trains in Tae Kwon Do and Hap Ki Do. He has investigated meditation as well as other martial arts including Tendo-ryu Naginata, Ki-Aikido and Cheng Man Ching style of Tai Ji Quan. In addition to his AMAFA practice Benjamin also swims and cycles 3-4 days a week. Benjamin currently holds a Silver Sash in FRLMM. 

 

Benjamin is a residency trained exotic animal veterinarian who has been practicing since 1997. Dr. Otten has worked at over 100 other specialty, general practice, emergency and exotic pet practices in California from Pasadena to Sonoma. Being a veterinarian is more of a lifestyle than a career and many of his days are spent walking dogs and talking with  pet owners about their animals. When not ‘critter fixen’ Benjamin enjoys spending time in his garden grilling with his family. Benjamin’s favorite snacks are crunchy: mini carrots or a good in season apple but he gets really excited when he finds blackberries or other wild fruit on a walk. 

 

Benjamin’s Default element is FIRE. If there is a problem he takes action and finds an immediate solution.. Benjamin’s preferred element is Earth: “I like walking slowly on the ground, getting my hands dirty and feeling the strength and community around me. FRLMM is useful for me because it helps ground me during and after my fiery fluid work days and gives me a different perspective to view my work and the people in it; encouraging patience and keeping me physically active as I move through life.”  Benjamin says: “  How Nature’s Cycle of Change (Form 2) mimics the movement of the seasons really speaks to my natural desire to be linked to the natural world we live in and the need to give space when moving between energies helps encourage me to do this in my daily life as well. “