Introduction
Founded in 1997, EDENTAO-CEAEC is a dedicated space for the study and transmission of Chinese energetic arts and the Tao. Based in Lyon, France, our association welcomes anyone who seeks to explore the timeless wisdom of these traditions and to apply their principles to achieve greater health, clarity, and inner harmony. Over the years, we have cultivated a community of practitioners united by a common desire: to live in balance with themselves, others, and the natural world.
Our name, EDENTAO-CEAEC, reflects both our commitment to preserving authentic knowledge and our openness to integrating it into modern life. We believe that the Tao is not just an abstract concept to be studied; it is a living path, meant to be experienced in our bodies, minds, and daily actions.
Our Story
When EDENTAO-CEAEC was founded in 1997, our mission was simple yet ambitious: to create a place where the rich heritage of Chinese energetic arts could be shared beyond cultural and linguistic boundaries. At the time, resources for learning these practices in Lyon were limited. Our founders recognized the need for a supportive environment where students could learn not only techniques but also the deeper philosophy that gives them meaning.
From our earliest days, we welcomed people of all backgrounds — those with prior experience in martial or energetic arts, and those entirely new to the field. Through workshops, regular classes, and seminars, we slowly built a foundation of knowledge, discipline, and mutual respect. The emphasis was never solely on performance or mastery of form, but on cultivating a personal connection with the Tao and applying its principles in everyday life.
Over the decades, our approach has evolved in response to the needs of our members. While staying true to traditional teachings, we have embraced new methods of learning, expanded our curriculum, and organized events that bridge the gap between East and West. Today, EDENTAO-CEAEC continues to grow while maintaining the intimate, welcoming atmosphere that has defined us since the beginning.
What We Practice
At the heart of EDENTAO-CEAEC is the practice of Chinese energetic arts — disciplines designed to harmonize body, mind, and spirit. These arts are rooted in the same principles that guide Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taoist philosophy, and centuries of human observation of nature’s cycles.
Our activities include:
- Qi Gong (Chi Kung): Gentle yet powerful movements coordinated with breathing and intention to cultivate vital energy.
- Tai Chi Chuan: A moving meditation that blends martial application with fluid grace, fostering balance, focus, and internal strength.
- Meditation: Practices for calming the mind, deepening awareness, and connecting with one’s inner nature.
- Taoist Philosophy Study: Exploring classical texts and their relevance to contemporary life, from the Tao Te Ching to lesser-known works.
These practices are not isolated skills but interconnected paths that support one another. They invite students to observe the relationship between movement and stillness, effort and relaxation, action and receptivity.
Our Approach to Teaching
We see ourselves not as mere instructors, but as guides walking alongside our students. Our teaching is grounded in three core values:
- Authenticity – Staying true to the essence of the traditions we transmit, respecting their origins while making them accessible to a modern audience.
- Inclusivity – Welcoming individuals of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds, adapting instruction to meet each person where they are.
- Continuity – Encouraging long-term practice, with the understanding that mastery is less about reaching a final destination and more about cultivating the discipline to keep learning.
Our classes are designed to provide a balance between theory and practice. While physical training develops strength, flexibility, and coordination, philosophical discussion helps contextualize the movements and reveal their deeper significance.
The Meaning of the Tao in Our Work
The Tao, often translated as “the Way,” is a central concept in our philosophy. It represents the natural order of the universe, the flow of life that we can align ourselves with rather than resist. In our modern world, where speed and constant change often dominate, the Tao offers a reminder of a slower, more harmonious rhythm.
For us, practicing Chinese energetic arts is one way of walking the Tao. Every breath, every movement, every moment of stillness is an opportunity to return to balance. By aligning with the Tao, we cultivate resilience in the face of challenges, clarity in decision-making, and compassion toward ourselves and others.
Our Community
One of the most distinctive aspects of EDENTAO-CEAEC is our community spirit. We are not simply a collection of individuals attending classes; we are a living network of people who support one another’s growth. Our members often describe the association as a place where they can recharge, learn, and connect with like-minded individuals.
We host regular gatherings outside of class, including seasonal celebrations, themed workshops, and cultural events. These occasions strengthen the bonds between members and create opportunities for informal learning and exchange. Many lasting friendships have been formed within our walls, and our alumni often remain connected even when they move away from Lyon.
Why We Exist
In a world where information is abundant but genuine connection is often scarce, EDENTAO-CEAEC offers both knowledge and community. We exist to:
- Preserve and pass on traditional Chinese energetic practices.
- Provide a safe, respectful space for learning and self-discovery.
- Help individuals integrate the principles of the Tao into their daily lives.
- Promote health and well-being through holistic methods.
We believe that these objectives are not just relevant to personal growth but also contribute to a more balanced and harmonious society.
Looking to the Future
As we approach three decades of continuous activity, our vision for the future remains clear: to continue deepening our understanding of the Tao and sharing it with those who seek it. We plan to expand our offerings with new courses, invite guest instructors from different parts of the world, and develop resources that make our teachings more widely available.
While technology will undoubtedly play a role in our future, we will always prioritize direct human interaction. The essence of our practice lies in presence — the shared space between teacher and student, between movement and breath.
An Invitation
If you are reading this, you may already feel drawn to what we offer. Whether you are curious about the Tao, seeking new ways to improve your health, or simply looking for a community where respect and personal growth are valued, we invite you to join us. No prior experience is necessary; only an open mind and a willingness to learn.
You can visit us at our Lyon location, observe a class, and speak with our members to get a sense of who we are and what we stand for. We believe that the best way to understand our work is to experience it firsthand.