Why I Recommend Taoism: A Journey Towards Unity by Paul Cavel

Each winter, I look forward to a little extra time for reading and reflection. This year, one book stood out—because of its direct relevance to what we practice at Chicago Tai Chi and because I think many of you would genuinely enjoy it.

Taoism: A Journey Towards Unity by Paul Cavel offers a thoughtful and accessible framework for understanding the Water Method of Taoism and how it applies to daily life and practice.

In just 82 pages, Paul presents ideas that are both profound and practical—especially for anyone interested in Tai Chi, Qigong, meditation, or internal development.

What Is the Water Method of Taoism?

To understand the Water Method, it helps to know more about its modern lineage.

As Paul explains, the Water Method originated in ancient China and has been passed down from Taoist masters to students for millennia. This approach emphasizes releasing tension, working with moderation, and developing sensitivity through direct experience rather than force.

Paul’s primary teacher—and mine—is Bruce Frantzis, a pioneering Westerner who traveled extensively in Asia and trained to high levels in martial arts, qigong, neigong, meditation, and Taoist spiritual practices.

That journey eventually led Bruce to Taoist Master Liu Hung Chieh, who was living quietly in Beijing during the Cultural Revolution. Bruce trained privately with Master Liu for three years. 

During that training, Master Liu passed the Water Method of Taoism to Bruce. Bruce has been teaching Water Method practices and principles for nearly 50 years through his Energy Arts system.

Paul Cavel with Master Bruce Frantzis; the late Taoist Master Liu Hung Chieh pictured in the background. Energy Arts Training Center, Longmont, CO.

My Connection to Paul's Teaching

I’ve benefited from Paul’s teaching and guidance since my first Energy Arts training 17 years ago, and through many workshops since then. His clarity, precision, and deep understanding of the Water Method have influenced my own teaching in meaningful ways.

It was an honor to host Paul in Chicago for his first-ever workshop here. Students appreciated not only his depth of knowledge, but also his approachable and encouraging teaching style.

Paul's 2025 Qigong Workshop at Chicago Tai Chi.

A Framework for the Water Method

In Taoism: A Journey Towards Unity, Paul provides a clear structure and outline for understanding the Water Method.

In a concise and accessible style, he describes both the underlying theories and practical applications of key Water Method principles. These include:

Experienced practitioners will appreciate how Paul orders and connects these principles. Those new to this tradition will find a clear, structured framework.

Either way, Paul’s descriptions provide helpful context and inspiration for your practice of tai chi, qigong, and meditation.

Why the Water Method is Relevant Today

Paul's book presents the Water Method as a living, evolving tradition, connecting its principles and practices to what many people seek today, including:

As Paul writes, “Water Method Taoism is and always has been a pragmatic approach to health, healing, martial arts and spirituality, all a part of one continuum.”

This perspective resonates deeply with what I see in students every day—Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation helping people become more healthy, balanced, and connected within themselves.

In a culture that often encourages pushing, straining, accumulation, and quick fixes, the Water Method offers a refreshing alternative: progress through relaxation, awareness, moderation, letting go, and patient practice.

My Recommendation

I recommend this book to anyone curious about how ancient Taoist wisdom can support meaningful change in modern life. Whether you are new to these practices or have years of experience, Paul’s insights offer both inspiration and practical guidance.

The book is available on Amazon in both ebook and paperback formats. Click below to get your copy.

👉 Taoism: A Journey Towards Unity by Paul Cavel

Continue the Conversation

If you’d like to hear Paul speak directly about the Water Method and its application today, I invite you to watch Part 1 of my recent conversation with him:

👉 Secrets of Water Method Qigong | Interview with Paul Cavel

And if you’d like to experience these principles in practice, that's what we do at Chicago Tai Chi. 

We offer classes and private instruction in Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation in a welcoming and supportive environment—both in-person and online.

Chris Cinnamon
Certified Exercise Physiologist
Head Instructor
Author, Tai Chi for Balance and
Tai Chi for Knee Health