A common question arises for those considering entry into the path of Daoist Internal Alchemy: What does such a school look like in practice? What rules govern such a refined tradition?
The answer is both simple and subtle.
Peacewalker Royal Neidan conducts its teachings entirely online, in full alignment with the direction of the Masters who have entrusted us with this tradition. While remote in format, the approach is not impersonal. On the contrary—it is deeply individual.
Our teaching method is centered on the growth of each practitioner, not as a general concept, but as a lived, direct, and observable process. Each student is guided carefully, with attention paid not only to outward form but to inner state, energetic condition, and the readiness of the individual’s inner life. This is not group instruction in the conventional sense; rather, the class itself becomes a vessel, and each student is observed and adjusted as needed, based on what is present in the moment.
To that end, all students are required to keep their cameras on throughout the session. This allows the instructor to observe posture, movement, breath, and—more importantly—the invisible language of energy as it flows. Corrections are made not to impose form, but to restore harmony and guide the student toward deeper refinement.
Each class is taught live.
No recordings are permitted under any circumstance. This is not merely a rule—it is a necessity born of the nature of the Work. Every session is unique. The energy of the day, the state of each participant, and the methods selected by the instructor coalesce into a living energetic field. Recording a class would capture only the form, not the force; only the surface, not the essence. Moreover, such recording is a violation of the trust and transmission of the school, and doing so will result in immediate disciplinary action, including fines or expulsion.
Just as with recording, sharing of methods is strictly forbidden. This is not secrecy for its own sake—it is protection. The methods taught, especially as one progresses, carry great internal power. When practiced prematurely or without guidance, they can bring imbalance or harm. For this reason, students must not share even with family or friends. If a loved one is sincerely interested, they are welcome to join a class and begin their own journey, under proper instruction.
Students are also required to appear under their full name, written in the traditional manner: Family name first, followed by given name (e.g., “Smith John”). This is not only for organizational clarity, but also a gesture of respect to the lineage, in which names carry meaning and identity is honored.
The structure of the classes themselves varies in response to the needs of the moment. One session may address a particular blockage or deficiency. Another may emphasize progression in foundational methods. Another may be devoted entirely to harmonizing the inner state and balancing yin and yang. No class is arbitrary. The instructor observes the inner condition of the students and directs the flow accordingly, always seeking to bring the practitioner closer to the Dao through internal refinement.
While instruction is vital, so too is self-practice. Each student is strongly encouraged to cultivate a daily practice at home. This does not need to begin at full intensity. Like all worthy endeavors, it may be built gradually. For those seeking only to restore balance and improve health, light practice is sufficient and welcome. But for the true aspirants, for those whose hearts burn with the desire for realization—daily practice is essential.
Know this: the fire of the Elixir is not kindled through mere attendance. It is awakened through sincerity, perseverance, and the quiet discipline of returning again and again to the Work.