Wudang Five Animals Set
24–25 January 2026 / 21–22 February 2026
21–22 March 2026 — Bratislava
This cycle of weekend workshops is dedicated to studying the unique Taoist practice of the monks from the Wudang Mountains — the Wudang Five Animals Set. This set integrates the inner alchemy of the Five Phases (Water, Fire, Metal, Wood, Earth), the five main Yin organs (and secondarily their partner Yang organs) and their meridians (energy channels). We learned this set from Master Bing (Zhong Xue Chao), who lives and teaches in the Wudang Mountains and represents the 15th generation in the lineage of Master Zhang San Feng’s practice and knowledge.
The practice consists of five animal forms — Turtle, Snake, Dragon, Tiger, and Crane — which are key symbols of traditional Chinese culture. This set is extraordinarily complex and exceptional and is not commonly available. The practice supports harmonization of body, energy, and mind and helps develop internal strength, flexibility, and vitality.
Teaching Team
You will be gently guided through the study by Zuna and Milan, so that you gain the most comprehensive knowledge not only about the form itself but also about Taoist principles in general.
- Zuna Vesan brings deep knowledge of Chinese medicine, the meridian system, and Nei Gong, conveyed through movement and working with energy.
- Milan Kozánek connects Taoist principles with anatomy and conscious movement, drawing on classical Taoist texts such as the I Ching and Tao Te Ching.
Together they will guide you through the entire learning process to achieve a balanced connection between body and mind.
Who is the course suitable for?
- For anyone interested in Qigong — from beginners to advanced practitioners.
- For those who want to develop harmony of body and spirit and understand the connections between anatomy, energy, and movement.
- For those preparing for the Qigong retreat with Master Bing in China in 2026.
- Traveling to China is not a condition for participation in the course.
See the Wudang Retreat.
Location
Yoga House, Panenská 33, Bratislava (Goethe Institute building, 2nd floor)
See map
Price
€129 per weekend
€365 for all 3 weekends (save €22)
We prefer participation in all three weekends, as this gives the program the most sense.
Participation in selected weekends is possible if there are free spots.
See the content of individual weekends below.
Cancellation policy applies.
Description of the Wudang Five Animals Set
Turtle form
The turtle symbolizes long life, calmness, and foresight. It is assigned to the Water phase and the Kidney organ (and urinary bladder). Practicing it increases Qi, strengthens kidneys, bones, and cartilage, and makes the body flexible.
Crane form
The crane symbolizes transcendence, elegance, and purity. It belongs to the Fire phase and the Heart organ (including pericardium and small intestine). The practice supports Qi, a healthy mind, and positive mood.
Snake form
The snake in Chinese culture represents supernatural powers and natural phenomena. It is connected with the Metal phase and the lungs (and large intestine). It helps cultivate the lungs and refines the body.
Tiger form
The tiger is a symbol of strength and wildness. It corresponds to the Earth phase and the spleen organ (and stomach). It strengthens muscles and bones.
Dragon form
The dragon represents wisdom, power, and good fortune. It belongs to the Wood phase and the liver organ (and gallbladder). It supports blood and breath.
This classification is based on Wudang tradition and may differ from the classical Five Phases system according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The seminar series will also include Nei Gong meditations on the Qi of each animal, so we can attune to their inner rhythm and essence not only through movement but also through quiet and conscious inner touch. When we internally touch the Qi of the animal, movement ceases to be just a technique or form. It naturally deepens and becomes more alive, full, and true. It is as if the animal breathes through us.
Dates and Weekend Schedule
24–25 January 2026
The first weekend is dedicated to the Turtle and Crane forms — calmness, grace, and returning to the source.
21–22 February 2026
The second weekend we dive into the Snake and Tiger forms, which bring the power of transformation, depth, and dynamism.
21–22 March 2026
The third weekend completes the set with the Dragon form and the integration of all forms — for inner maturation and unlocking the full potential of the practice.
Register via this form: