Classes last one hour and meet in a small group on Zoom. The timetable follows Raleigh, North Carolina, in the Eastern time zone (America/New_York), including daylight saving time.
Why DaoDeUS?
The US in DaoDeUS reflects a practical aim: making live neidan instruction easier to attend for students in the United States. Our class times are chosen with U.S. students in mind, using Raleigh, North Carolina, as the reference time zone.
Students from any country are welcome to apply. You can join if the timetable works for you and you are approved after the free, private introductory interview.
What you will study
Students begin with the broad Northern method and its foundational practices. Instructions are given step by step, with time to ask questions and discuss your practice with the instructor.
The class gives you guidance for the work you do between meetings. Beginners should allow about 20–60 minutes a day for personal practice. The instructor explains what to practise and checks your understanding as you proceed.
Read about the teaching for an introduction to the school and its method.
How joining works
- Choose a time to talkBook a free introductory conversation on Zoom. The booking calendar shows available times in your selected time zone. You do not need a student account.
- Meet the instructorAllow about 30 minutes to discuss your background, questions, daily practice time and suitability for the teaching.
- Join if approvedApproved students receive an invitation and instructions for setting up their account, paying for classes and getting access to the members area.
Before you book
Consider whether the Monday and Wednesday class times and regular daily practice fit your week. Bring any questions about the method, your previous experience or the practical arrangements to the conversation.
The booking form asks for your name, email and phone number. Email is used for booking details; a phone number is required so the school can contact you if needed. Discuss personal suitability privately with the instructor.
Common questions
Do I need previous experience with neidan, qigong or meditation?
No previous experience is required to apply. Beginners start with foundational work in the WuLiuPai broad Northern method. The introductory interview is where you can discuss your background and whether the teaching is suitable for you.
Do I need to become a Daoist or change my religious beliefs?
No. You do not need to convert to Daoism or adopt a religious identity. You will learn a practical method within the WuLiuPai tradition through instruction and regular practice.
How does neidan differ from qigong and meditation?
In the WuLiuPai teaching, neidan takes cultivation further through a structured process of alchemical refinement. Its aim extends beyond cultivating qi or developing stillness alone. If qigong or meditation has made you curious about deeper cultivation, read how neidan and qigong relate.
What will I learn as a beginner?
You will begin the broad Northern method and its foundational practices. The instructor explains the work step by step, with opportunities to ask questions and clarify what to practise between meetings. Our beginner’s guide explains the first steps.
How much time should I set aside for classes and daily practice?
Classes last one hour, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7–8 PM Raleigh time, with eight classes per month. Beginners should also allow approximately 20–60 minutes a day for personal practice.
Are the classes taught live, and can I ask questions?
Yes. Classes take place live on Zoom, with opportunities to ask the instructor about the teaching and your practice. Students are not permitted to record classes.
Can I join from outside the United States?
Yes. The timetable is chosen with U.S. students in mind, but applicants from any country are welcome. You can join if you can attend at the scheduled times and are approved after the introductory interview. Check the class time using the America/New_York time zone, including seasonal clock changes.
Do I need special equipment, clothing or a dedicated practice space?
To attend online, you need a device that runs Zoom, a working camera and microphone, and a reliable connection. A camera is mandatory for all students. You must be alone in the room during class. Other people are not permitted to be present. Choose a place where you can hear and follow the instructor without interruptions. Any requirements for clothing, space or equipment for the practice itself can be discussed during the introductory conversation, before you buy anything.
Your Zoom display name must use the format Surname First name, with your surname first and your first name second. This is a mandatory school rule.
Can I continue my existing meditation, qigong or other practices?
Tell the instructor what you currently practise during the introductory interview. You can then discuss how those practices relate to the method taught here and whether any changes are needed.
Is this teaching suitable for everyone?
Suitability is considered during the private introductory interview. Discuss your previous practice and any personal or health circumstances that may affect participation, so the instructor can determine whether the teaching is appropriate for you. Admission requires approval after that conversation.
Why is an introductory interview required, and is it free?
The interview is free and private, and takes about 30 minutes on Zoom. It gives you an opportunity to meet the instructor, ask questions and discuss expectations. It also allows the instructor to assess suitability before enrollment.
How is progress assessed, and how quickly should I expect to progress?
The instructor considers your practice and understanding in the context of the school’s curriculum. There is no fixed timetable promised for reaching a particular stage. At the beginning, focus on learning the instructions, practising regularly and bringing questions back to class. Our guide to learning with a teacher explains how those conversations support study.
What happens if I miss a class? Are make-up sessions available?
At this level, there is no penalty for missing a class. There are no make-up sessions. Students are not permitted to record classes. Missed classes are not refunded.
There are eight classes per month. When a month contains more than eight Monday and Wednesday dates, classes do not take place on the extra dates.