The sword (Jiàn) holds a special place in Daoist tradition.

It is seen not only as a weapon but also as a symbol of clarity, resolve, and the focused mind.

The sword(Jiàn) holds a special place in Daoist tradition. It is seen not only as a weapon but also as a symbol of clarity, resolve, and the focused mind. 

During this retreat, we will explore how the precise practice of the sword can contribute to cultivating mindfulness and inner structure.

Moving with the sword helps you:

• become more present in your body
• calm your restless mind· feel your own energy (Qi) more clearly
• find stillness even in movement

We learn how to actually work with the sword through simple basic exercises and partner drills. These are not about competition. They gently train your awareness, sensitivity, and ability to listen – to a partner, to the moment, and to yourself. This is where the real learning happens, regardless of your level.

The form also contains deeper layers: daoist symbols, ritual elements, and circular stepping patterns from Tian Gang Baguazhang as passed down by Lü Dong Bin (one of the Eight Immortals). 

These movements are not just technical – they are a moving meditation that harmonizes your body with natural cycles and energies. 

The Chun Yang practice includes Nei Gong (inner work), which helps you cultivate and direct your internal energy in a calm, grounded way.

Wudang Chun Yang Pai (Pure Yang School) – An ancient Tradition

The lineage is the Wudang Chun Yang Pai (武當純陽派), a direct transmission from the sacred Wudang Mountains, the heartland of Daoist martial and spiritual arts.

The Lineage Holder: Li Shifu 

(Abbot Xing De)

Li Shifu (born 1964) is the Abbot of the Wu Xian Miao (Temple of the Five Immortals) on Bai Ma Shan (White Horse Mountain) in the Wudang range. His path began with Shaolin and Wudang martial arts at age 12, followed by deep study of classical religious and philosophical texts.

In 1996, he retreated to the Wudang mountains to become a Daoist monk. Under extreme conditions, he mastered martial arts, Daoist healing, rituals, and music. In 2000, following the passing of his master, Abbess Tao Fa Zhen (29th generation Long Men), he was appointed as her successor. He now serves as Abbot, Ceremony Master, and High Priest of the "Pure Yang School."

The Journey: Discipleship and Practice

After severals years of Shaolin practice, Nicolas decided to go to the Wudang Mountains in order to learn more about the culture, the daoist tradtion and the healing arts (Dao Yi).

 In 2015, Master Li formally accepted Nicolas as his disciple into the 24th generation of the lineage. In a full-moon ceremony, he bestowed upon him the Daoist name 誠禮 (Chéng Lǐ), meaning "Sincere Propriety." Since then Nicolas has been practicing and teaching the Chun Yang Arts with devotion.

Teachings and Specialties

Authentic Wudang Swordsmanship

The core is the Wudang Pure Yang Sword, a treasure of this lineage traced back to the immortal Lü Dong Bin. It is more than technique; it is an alchemical practice that unifies body, breath, and spirit with the weapon, harnessing internal power and the symbolism of the Big Dipper (Seven Stars).

Complete Wudang Kung Fu System

Chun Yang Pai Kung Fu is a complete martial system, originally preserved during wartime by Immortal Master Wang Zhi Dao of the Five Dragons Temple and later disseminated by Immortal Master Liu Li Hang. This system was formally transmitted back into the monastic tradition at Five Immortals Temple.

Holistic Daoist Arts 

Beyond martial forms, this practice encompasses internal cultivation:

Inner Alchemy (Way of the Elixir): For refining energy and consciousness.  

Daoist Qi Gong: For health, vitality and longevity.  

Daoist Medicine and Healing Arts.  

Ritual, Music, and Ceremonial Practice.

Distinct Character

An integrated path in a unbroken transmission within a living temple tradition. The Chun Yang Style practice bridges explosive martial power with soft, flowing movement, and physical discipline with profound spiritual cultivation.