Lishi International
Lishi International (Charity number: 1149995) is a UK-based nonprofit organisation dedicated to promoting health, well-being, and cultural heritage through traditional Chinese Daoist movement practices. Established in 2012, it focuses on holistic approaches to physical and mental well-being, integrating disciplines such as Tai Chi, Daoist yoga, meditation, and Feng Shou Kung Fu into community programs.

History and Mission

Registered with the Charity Commission under Standard registration in 2012[^3], Lishi International aims to advance health, social inclusion, and cultural preservation. Its activities emphasize accessibility, offering practices suitable for varying fitness levels while sustaining a movement culture rooted in ancient Chinese traditions[^3].

Core Practices

• Lishi Tai Chi: Combines fluid movements with mindfulness, designed to enhance relaxation, energy flow, and stability^1.
• Daoist Yoga: Incorporates postures and sequences to improve flexibility, mindfulness, and stress reduction^1.
• Feng Shou Kung Fu: A non-aggressive martial art emphasizing coordination, cardiovascular health, and mental focus^1.

Activities and Reach

The charity operates across the UK and Europe, including France, Germany, Spain, Scotland, and Northern Ireland[^3]. It provides training, workshops, and grants to individuals and organisations, alongside research initiatives to further its mission in health and cultural education[^3].

Governance

Lishi International is managed by three trustees and supported by five volunteers[^3]. Its governance framework includes policies on safeguarding, financial controls, and risk management to ensure compliance with charitable standards[^3].

Related Initiatives

While distinct from the International Taoist Society (ITS), which seeks to establish a Leeds-based centre for Taoist practices[^5], Lishi International similarly emphasizes the preservation and dissemination of traditional Daoist arts within Western contexts.

[^3]: Charity Commission records (Charity number: 1149995)
[^5]: JustGiving campaign for ITS Leeds centre

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5031498/contact-information [2] https://lishi.org [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5031498/full-print [4] https://ngo-explorer.dkane.net/charity/1149995 [5] https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/buildingahome