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MEET matt peseNdian
For over three decades, Matt Pesendian has helped people reconnect to their health, clarity, and inner strength through ancient practices and modern insight, bringing a deeply integrative approach to healing, mindfulness, and personal growth.
His journey began in 1990 with Hatha Yoga, deepened in 1997 with Qigong, and since 2000 has included the foundational conditioning disciplines of Kalaripayattu, the martial art tradition of South India—forming the ground for a lifelong exploration of movement, breath, energy, and consciousness.
Licensed in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine since 2003, Matt brings a depth of clinical expertise and genuine compassion to his healing work—supporting patients with precision, presence, and a profound understanding of mind-body medicine.
Drawing on Yoga, Qigong, Meditation, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Matt blends ancient wisdom with modern neuroscience to rewire limiting patterns, calm the nervous system, and ignite deep physical, energetic, and mental-emotional transformation—helping individuals unlock their body’s intelligence, harness the mind’s healing power, and reclaim vibrant health and vitality.
Whether you’re participating in a Longevity Qigong intensive, a Hatha Yoga-Meditation practice, or receiving a personalized Acupuncture session, working with Matt offers a supportive way to restore balance and tap into your body’s natural healing abilities.
Matt Pesendian lives in his hometown of Santa Barbara, CA, where he shares his life with his beloved wife, Aimee, and daughter, Mae.
From 2005 to 2025, Matt pioneered the Longevity Qigong program at the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center in Santa Barbara, CA, sharing ancient Chinese longevity practices to support patients on their healing journey.
In 2014, he developed the Santa Barbara Cancer Foundation’s first Acupuncture Oncology program, offering free treatments to individuals undergoing chemotherapy—an extension of his deep commitment to accessible, heart-centered care, which he continues to passionately operate today.
As the founder of Channel Acupuncture Clinic and Bodhimanda Qigong-Yoga studio in Santa Barbara, CA, he has created a space for healing and transformation—where ancient traditions meet the evolving science of mind-body medicine.
“I’ve seen incredible results with acupuncture for my sports injuries, hormonal imbalances, and grieving. Matt’s genuine empathy and expertise make me feel safe and supported in my healing journey as his patient.”
-MALLY C.
Featured Press
Slow, gentle, yet energizing, these Longevity Qigong forms are based on ancient Chinese yoga postures, movements, self-massage, and breathing techniques. They enhance the immune system by strengthening bones and organs, along with promoting optimal blood flow, lymphatic circulation, and oxygen intake.
LONGEVITY QIGONG
Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and backed by modern science, acupuncture views the body as an interconnected whole. By strategically stimulating precise points along energy and fascial channels, this time-tested therapy restores internal balance, addresses root causes, and awakens the body’s natural ability to heal.
CHANNEL ACUPUNCTURE
Explore a rare, integrative system merging the grounded strength of Hatha Yoga with the dynamic movements of Kalari, an ancient South Indian martial art. This unique, energetic practice combines martial-inspired stances, yoga asanas, breathwork, and meditation to strengthen the body, focus the mind, and open the heart.
KALARI Yoga
CONNECT
With a focus on evidence-based natural therapies, Matt specializes in acupuncture, cupping, herbal medicine, moxibustion, and nutritional guidance. His teachings of Longevity Qigong and Kalari Yoga further enhance resilience, vitality, and well-being.
LOCATION
Channel Acupuncture
Bodhimanda Qigong & Yoga Studio
2600 De La Vina St. Suite D
Santa Barbara, Ca 93105
805-452-2199