Introduction
EDENTAO-CEAEC is more than a place to learn Chinese energetic arts — it is a living community dedicated to the preservation, practice, and sharing of Taoist wisdom in its many forms. Since our founding in 1997, we have opened our doors to people from all walks of life who are curious about the Tao and its application in the modern world.
From our home in Lyon, France, we have spent decades nurturing a space where health, self-awareness, and harmony can grow. For us, the Tao is not an abstract concept or distant philosophy; it is a practical guide for living, one that shapes our classes, our interactions, and our vision for the future.
Our Origins
When EDENTAO-CEAEC began in 1997, it was born from a deep respect for the ancient traditions of Chinese energetic arts and a recognition of their timeless relevance. Our founders saw how these practices — rooted in balance, breath, and mindful movement — could help modern individuals meet life’s challenges with clarity and resilience.
Initially, we started as a small group gathering for regular practice and study sessions. Over time, our reputation grew, attracting new members who were seeking more than just physical exercise. They came for the philosophy, the sense of connection, and the opportunity to experience transformation through consistent practice.
Today, EDENTAO-CEAEC has become a respected association in the Lyon community, offering not only training in Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and meditation but also a deeper exploration of Taoist thought.
What We Stand For
At EDENTAO-CEAEC, our guiding principles are:
- Authenticity: Honoring the origins of the practices we teach, preserving their essence while adapting them for contemporary life.
- Integrity: Upholding high standards in our teaching, organization, and relationships.
- Inclusivity: Welcoming people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, ensuring everyone feels valued and respected.
- Continuity: Encouraging lifelong learning, understanding that mastery develops over time through consistent practice.
Our focus is not on competition or achievement in a traditional sense. Instead, we emphasize progress at one’s own pace, with attention to personal growth and inner balance.
What We Offer
Our association provides a range of activities, all grounded in the principles of the Tao and Chinese energetic arts:
- Qi Gong: Structured sequences of movement combined with breathing techniques to cultivate and circulate vital energy.
- Tai Chi Chuan: A flowing martial art practiced slowly and mindfully, improving coordination, stability, and relaxation.
- Meditation and Breathing Practices: Techniques to calm the mind, focus attention, and connect more deeply with oneself.
- Taoist Philosophy Study: Discussions and readings from classical texts to understand the theory behind the practice.
- Workshops and Special Events: Occasional in-depth sessions focused on specific aspects of practice or philosophy.
While each discipline can be studied on its own, many of our members find that combining them provides a richer, more complete experience.
Our Approach
Our teaching method blends tradition with adaptability. We remain faithful to the core principles of the Tao while ensuring our classes are accessible to people living in today’s fast-paced world. This means we:
- Break down complex concepts into practical steps.
- Encourage questions and discussion in class.
- Respect each person’s learning rhythm and physical ability.
- Integrate philosophy into movement, so practice is not just physical but also mental and emotional.
We see learning as a two-way path. While our instructors share their knowledge and experience, they also learn from the perspectives and questions of our members. This mutual exchange keeps our community dynamic and evolving.
The Role of the Tao in Modern Life
In ancient China, the Tao was understood as the natural way of things — the underlying principle that governs balance, change, and harmony in the universe. In today’s context, these teachings remain highly relevant.
Life in the modern world can be fast, fragmented, and stressful. By studying the Tao, we are reminded of the importance of slowing down, paying attention, and living in harmony with our own nature and the environment around us. At EDENTAO-CEAEC, we guide our members in applying these principles beyond the training hall — in their homes, workplaces, and relationships.
Our Community
One of the defining features of EDENTAO-CEAEC is our community spirit. We believe learning is most effective in an environment of trust and mutual respect. Our members often describe the association as a place where they feel supported, understood, and inspired.
We regularly hold:
- Seasonal gatherings to mark the changes in the year.
- Cultural events to explore related aspects of Chinese tradition.
- Informal meet-ups where members can connect outside class.
These activities strengthen bonds between members and make EDENTAO-CEAEC more than just a training center — it becomes a second home.
Why We Do What We Do
We exist because we believe that the wisdom of the Tao and the practices of Chinese energetic arts are too valuable to fade into obscurity. They are tools for health, personal growth, and inner peace, which are needed now more than ever.
By teaching these arts in a way that respects tradition while embracing modern life, we make them accessible to people who might never have encountered them otherwise. Our work is as much about preserving heritage as it is about helping individuals live more balanced, fulfilling lives.
Looking Ahead
As we approach three decades of activity, we remain committed to our founding mission while looking for ways to grow and adapt. In the coming years, we aim to:
- Expand our range of classes and workshops.
- Host guest teachers from other traditions to enrich our perspectives.
- Develop written and digital resources for our members.
- Continue building a strong, inclusive community.
While the world changes around us, the principles of the Tao remain constant. They guide our vision and ensure that EDENTAO-CEAEC will remain a place of stability, learning, and inspiration for years to come.
An Invitation to You
If you are curious about the Tao, looking for ways to improve your health, or simply seeking a community that values respect and personal growth, we invite you to visit us. You are welcome to observe a class, speak with our members, and see for yourself what makes EDENTAO-CEAEC unique.
Whether you choose to join us for a single workshop or make our association part of your regular life, we believe you will find something here that resonates with you. Our doors have been open for more than 25 years, and we look forward to welcoming new friends who share our love for the art and wisdom of the Tao.