Leonardo Stoute, also known by the Indonesian title of 'Bapak Waleed', has been a natural healer as well as a dance and martial arts instructor for nearly 30 years. A native of Panama, Leonardo grew up and went to school in the Northeast before launching his career in the health and wellness field in California. His story is a unique one, and is rooted in the practice of tradiational Silat, a movement arts and natural healing system from West Sumatra, Indonesia. Leonardo has dedicated his life to this ancient art and it forms the basis of the services and education he offers to others.

After successfully managing several health and fitness centers throughout the Bay Area, he moved to Ann Arbor, and added to his repretoire by reaching out to and collaborating with the student and academic community at the University of Michigan. During this time he also opened several wellness establishments in town, including a cafe and Natural Healing boutique. He also expanded his academic circle to include Eastern Michigan University and Washtenaw Community College.

Leonardo's dedication to traditional cultural arts and natural healing inspired the vision of the Body-Mind-Spirit Wellness Center. And, his leadership, tireless efforts, and impressive experience lead a group of volunteers to open the center in the spring of 2006. Leonardo remains intergral to maintaining the vision of the center in addition to his roles as a senior instructor and Natural Healer.

During the past year, Leonardo has spent much time traveling to places such as Yale and Harvard University, where he conducts programs and delivers guest lectures, as well as to Indonesia, and elsewhere in South East Asia, where cultural, educational, and community leaders have invited him to teach and share with the youth and communities for whom Silat is a part of their heritage.

Find more information on at the International Silat Federation

Leonardo can be reached directly at natheal@hotmail.com.

Pictures from Silat Traditionale Workshop, July 2008