Zhongxian Wu is a respected Daoist practitioner and teacher with over five decades of dedicated study and transmission of traditional Chinese wisdom.
Born in a small fishing village in eastern China, he began intensive training in Qigong, Taiji, martial arts, classical Chinese medicine, cosmology, and calligraphy in 1972. From 1988 onward, he has dedicated himself full-time to teaching these ancient disciplines internationally.
He is a recognized lineage holder in four authentic Qigong and martial arts traditions and the author of numerous books (including several in Chinese). His work focuses on shamanic Daoist practices, helping students cultivate deep connection with inner energy, nature, and spiritual awareness. He is widely regarded as an influential figure in contemporary Daoist education.
BJ) How did your early life and training lead to becoming lineage holder
in four Qigong/martial schools?
At a young age, I dedicated myself to my daily practices mostly because I thought it was fun. I found an experienced teacher found I received great benefits, in terms of my health, which inspired me to practice more. This became a snowball effect - the more I practiced, the more it helped me, the more I enjoyed doing it, and the more I practiced! As I got older, I studied the classical texts and my karma lead me to very special teachers. Eventually, people who were also into Qigong started seeking me out to teach them, and I began to formerly share what I had learned with others. I never thought about becoming a lineage holder. Things unfolded in their own natural way.
BJ) How does true Qigong/Neigong differ from modern commercial versions
of Tai Chi/Qigong?
Traditionally we have emphasized Kǒuchuán Xīnshòu 口傳心授, meaning teaching through the mouth and transmitting through the heart. In other words, we not only teach the physical movements of a form, we also support students on their inner spiritual transformation journey, and always emphasize the vital role of honoring the lineage and the masters and grandmasters who came before us.
BJ) How has Western teaching changed your approach since you moved here?
When I first moved to the US in 2001, in my very first class, I was surprised to see that most students were barefoot. In China, going barefoot in such a setting was considered rude. So I asked them if in US culture, it was okay for me to also go barefoot? My students answered with big smiles, and I immediately took off my shoes and socks. I have been enjoying my barefoot teaching since then.
Actually, there is an element of my teaching style that is been continuously changing. I do my best to adapt my teaching style to respect the customs of whatever region I am teaching in, and to gauge which teaching methodology will best help this group of students in front of me now. My talking style is very fluid and spontaneous.
At the same time, the core of my approach does not changed, regardless of the external conditions.
4) What daily practice do you recommend for beginners seeking real transformation?
I recommend the Thunder/Shaking Qigong practice from my EMei Shamanic Lineage for beginners and for students of all levels.
BJ) In one sentence, what is the ultimate purpose of training?
To live happier, healthier, and more harmoniously with family, friends, and nature.
See all of Zhongxin Wu's books and videos HERE.
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