Ptah Khi Academy

The 3·6·9 System Course

A Complete Pathway of Internal Cultivation

Three Treasures. Six Daily Activities. Nine Stages of Development. A structured pathway to refine body, breath, awareness and consciousness through the Ptah Khi School.

The 369 System is not simply a practice routine. It is a progressive framework designed to guide students through the complete process of internal cultivation — from building foundation, developing awareness, refining energy, and cultivating deeper states of presence.

WHY THE 369 SYSTEM EXISTS

Many practitioners collect techniques but lack a clear path of development.

The 369 System is the internal cultivation framework of the Ptah Khi School — guiding students through the development of body, energy and awareness.

The 369 System was created to provide the missing architecture — a way to understand where you are, what you are developing, and how each practice connects. Rather than separating meditation, movement, breath, energy and philosophy, the system unifies them into one living practice.

The goal is not simply learning more techniques:

  • The goal is refinement.

  • The goal is integration.

  • The goal is internal mastery.

The 369 System provides the underlying architecture of Ptah Khi internal development — a progressive framework designed to guide practitioners through continuous refinement.

THE ARCHITECTURE OF INTERNAL CULTIVATION

Three foundations. One complete pathway.

The 369 System is built upon three interconnected frameworks that guide the practitioner through progressive internal development.

 THE THREE TREASURES
The foundation of cultivation

The Three Treasures represent the essential aspects of human development — the cultivation of body, energy and spirit.

Through dedicated practice, students learn to strengthen the foundation of their being and create harmony between the physical, energetic and conscious aspects of life.

  • Jing (Essence) — Developing the physical foundation, vitality and internal resources.

  • Chi (Energy) — Cultivating awareness, circulation and the ability to regulate internal energy.

  • Shen (Spirit) — Developing clarity, presence and deeper awareness.

THE SIX DAILY ACTIVITIES
Bringing cultivation into everyday life

The Six Daily Activities form the practical foundation of the 369 System, transforming internal cultivation from a practice performed only during training into a way of living.

Structured through the MARVEL framework, these six activities provide a daily pathway for developing consistency, awareness, balance and integration — allowing the principles of internal cultivation to become part of everyday life.

  • Meditation

  • Affirmation

  • Reading

  • Visualisation

  • Exercise 

  • Logging (journalling) 

Through the MARVEL framework, the 369 System provides a practical structure for continuous growth — connecting daily actions with deeper internal development.

The journey of refinement

The Nine Stages represent the progressive pathway of development within the Ptah Khi system. The Nine Stages of Internal Cultivation is a proprietary development framework created by Head Coach Sahu, arising from over 30 years of internal arts practice and teaching.

Each stage guides the practitioner through a deeper level of understanding, practice and internal refinement — building upon the foundations established before while continuing to integrate previous stages.

The journey is not a linear path where one stage is completed and left behind. As awareness develops, practitioners return to earlier stages with greater understanding, allowing each foundation to be refined from a deeper level of experience.

Each stage supports the next, and the next stage reveals new depth within the stages that came before — creating a continuous process of growth, integration and mastery.

Through this process, the practitioner develops a complete relationship with the principles of internal cultivation, moving from foundational awareness towards deeper levels of presence, understanding and integration.

THE NINE STAGES OF INTERNAL CULTIVATION
  • Strength

  • Structural Integration

  • Mind power

  • Chi Plasma body and Melting

  • Central power

  • Trained force

  • Space power

  • Spirit power

  • Dao column 

Progress is not measured by leaving stages behind, but by revisiting each stage with greater awareness, understanding and integration.

THE ARCHITECTURE

Three pillars. One complete system.

It arose from over 30 years of continuous internal development — spanning meditation from 1994, therapy training from 1999, Chi Kung from 2004, and Wudang Tai Chi Chuan from 2007 — distilling the essential structure of the internal arts into a framework that can be lived, not just studied.

THE THREE TREASURES
Jing · Chi · Shen

Foundational principles of human development — Essence, Vital Energy, and Spirit. Every practice in the 369 System is oriented around the cultivation, refinement, and unification of these three. Without a clear understanding of the Three Treasures, internal arts practice remains on the surface.

THE SIX Daily Activities
The MARVEL Approach

Internal cultivation only transforms life when it becomes life. The Six Daily Activities — Meditation, Affirmation, Reading, Visualisation, Exercise, Logging — are a daily operating system for the practitioner, integrating cultivation into every waking moment rather than isolating it to a practice session.

THE Nine Stages of Cultivation
Strength → Dao Column

The map of the journey. Nine progressive stages take the practitioner from physical strength and structural integration through mind power, chi cultivation, and trained force, up to the highest levels of space power, spirit power, and Dao Column — the full range of internal mastery.

THE SIX DAILY ACTIVITIES

Cultivation as a way of living.

Meditation

Daily stillness practice that cultivates Shen, regulates the nervous system, and creates the inner space from which all else flows.

Affirmation

Conscious use of language and intention to align the mind with the direction of cultivation — rewiring the internal narrative.

Reading

Deepening theoretical understanding of the internal arts, classical texts, and the wider tradition that informs the 369 System.

Visualisation

Directed internal imaging used to move and refine energy through the body — the mind as instrument of cultivation.

Exercise

Physical practice — Tai Chi forms, Chi Kung sequences, Nei Kung routines — that grounds cultivation in the body.

Logging

Daily self-reflection and progress tracking — bringing awareness to the quality of practice and the patterns of development over time.

Clients & Partners

THE NINE STAGES of INTERNAL CULTIVATION

A complete map of internal progression.

The Nine Stages represent a progressive model of internal development. Each stage develops a different relationship with the body, mind, breath, energy and awareness. They are not simply levels to complete — they represent qualities to embody. Progress is not measured only by knowledge gained, but by the transformation of how you move, think, feel and experience life.

Strength

Establishing the physical foundation — structural integrity, postural alignment, and the ability to hold internal form without tension.

Structural Integration

Connecting the body as a unified structure. Developing the felt sense of internal coherence — joints, fascia, bone, and breath as one system.

Mind Power

Learning to direct energy through intention. The mind becomes the primary tool — precise, quiet, and effective in guiding internal movement.

Chi Plasma Body & Melting

The body begins to dissolve into energy. Boundaries between physical and energetic become permeable. Chi fills the body as liquid fills a vessel.

Central Power

Establishing the central column — the axis of the body from crown to root — as the primary conduit of cultivation and power.

Trained Force

Internal energy becomes trained and reliable — available on demand, directed with precision, expressed without tension or effort.

Space Power

Awareness expands beyond the physical body. The practitioner begins to sense and work with the field of energy surrounding form.

Spirit Power

The refinement of Shen — the spiritual dimension of the practice emerges as a felt reality. Presence, transmission, and inner light.

Dao Column

The completion of the journey — alignment with the Dao itself. The practitioner embodies the principles rather than practising them.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

A progressive pathway through the 369 System

The 369 System Foundation is designed as a structured journey of internal cultivation, guiding students through progressive stages of understanding, practice and integration. Each stage builds upon the previous one while allowing practitioners to continually revisit and refine earlier foundations at a deeper level

Build the essential principles of practice.

◈ Understanding the 369 System framework
◈ Developing body awareness and internal sensitivity
◈ Establishing foundational practices

Expand awareness and deepen practice.

◈ Refining movement, breath and internal connection
◈ Developing consistency through daily practice
◈ Applying the principles into everyday life

Bring the system together.

◈ Connecting body, energy and awareness
◈ Understanding the relationship between the Three Treasures, MARVEL and Nine Stages
◈ Developing a sustainable personal practice

Deepen understanding through repetition and awareness.

◈ Returning to foundations with greater insight
◈ Refining internal principles
◈ Developing greater presence and control

Allow the practice to become natural.

◈ Integrating cultivation into daily living
◈ Developing deeper awareness and expression
◈ Moving beyond technique into understanding

A lifelong path of development.

◈ Continuing refinement through ongoing practice
◈ Exploring deeper levels of internal cultivation
◈ Continuing the journey within the Ptah Khi framework

Why Daily Practice Matters

The internal arts are not a weekly class. They are a continuous process of refinement that unfolds through consistent, daily engagement. The Six Daily Activities are the architecture that makes this possible. Each activity takes the practitioner deeper into alignment — not by adding more to do, but by transforming what is already being done into cultivation. The breath becomes a practice. The morning becomes a ritual. The journal becomes a mirror. What separates the practitioner who transforms from the one who plateaus is not talent — it is the quality and consistency of daily engagement.

  • A structured, progressive approach that integrates mind, body, and spirit.

  • A focus on all 5 Tai Chi pillars ensuring comprehensive growth.

  • Classes tailored to beginners and experienced practitioners alike.

Ancient Principles. Modern Understanding

Modern research continues to explore the relationship between movement, breathing, meditation and human wellbeing. The 369 System integrates traditional internal arts principles with contemporary understanding of:

  • Nervous system regulation

  • Breath and respiratory function

  • Mindfulness and attention training

  • Mobility and structural awareness

  • Emotional balance and self-awareness

Bringing ancient training methods into a modern framework for personal development.

COURSE ACCESS
Choose your level of entry
The 369 System is a complete internal cultivation framework — not a short course. Students receive structured progression through the Three Treasures, Six Daily Activities and Nine Stages of Internal Cultivation, supported by guided video teachings, live weekly classes, and the full Ptah Khi Academy platform.
Begin your 369 System journey.

The 369 System is a complete structured internal cultivation course within the Ptah Khi School, designed to guide students through progressive stages of development in body, energy and awareness.

This is a full training system, not a subscription or membership — providing a complete framework for internal cultivation through structured learning and practice.

Online · Ptah Khi Academy
Complete foundation pathway

A structured enrolment into the 369 System Foundation, designed to guide you through the core principles, practices and progression system, including live Q&A and ongoing instruction.

£997 Online

Includes:

  • Full 369 System Internal Cultivation Course

  • Three Treasures framework (Jing, Chi, Shen)

  • Six Daily Activities (MARVEL system)

  • Nine Stages of Internal Cultivation

  • Guided video teachings and practice structure

  • Weekly live online class (Wednesday)

  • Access to the Ptah Khi Academy platfor

Payment options available

In Person · London
Complete foundation pathway

A structured in-person enrolment into the 369 System Foundation, delivered through direct instruction, guided training sessions, and live Q&A within the Ptah Khi School.

£1,197 In-Person

Our program offers:

  • Weekly in-person training sessions

  • Direct guidance and refinement of practice

  • Full 369 System curriculum

  • Structured progression through all three framework

  • Access to online academy resources

  • Weekly live online class included

Payment options available

Enrolment

Places are limited to maintain the integrity of the training and ensure individual development is supported throughout the process.

Register your interest and you will be contacted with enrolment options and next start dates.

What You Will Develop
  • Greater self-awareness and internal sensitivity

  • A deeper understanding of body, breath and energy

  • Improved focus, calmness and emotional balance

  • A structured personal cultivation practice

  • Greater connection between physical practice and inner development

  • A lifelong framework for continued growth

WHO THIS IS FOR

Not for the curious. For the committed.

Chi Kung (Qigong), Tai Chi (Taiji), and Nei Kung students who want a structured framework that connects and elevates what they already practise.

Practitioners Ready For Deeper Development

For students who have explored Tai Chi, Chi Kung, meditation or mindfulness and want a structured pathway beyond individual techniques.

Yoga & Meditation Teachers

Movement and mindfulness professionals seeking a complementary internal arts framework rooted in a different but compatible tradition.

Seekers Of Internal Understanding

For those drawn towards exploring the relationship between body, mind, energy and consciousness through a disciplined practice system.

Aspiring Instructors

The 369 System is a prerequisite for advanced instructor training at Ptah Khi. Students who wish to teach at the highest level begin here.

Existing Ptah Khi Students

For students continuing their development through the wider Ptah Khi framework of Internal Mastery.

STUDENT EXPERIENCES
The practice speaks for itself

The 369 System is a personal journey of internal cultivation, and each student experiences the process in their own way. Through structured practice, guidance and consistency, students develop a deeper understanding of body, breath, awareness and the principles of internal development.

PTAH KHI SCHOOL place picture
5.0
Based on 23 reviews
Camilo Queipo profile picture
Camilo Queipo
5 months ago
For almost a year, Sahu has helped me to regain strength and stability in my knee after bad injury. The practice of Chi Gong and more internal arts have also helped to settle my mind. It has also helped me to better deal with panic attacks through focused breathing practices and meditations.

There is a good balance between Tai Chi for practical application, and Tai Chi for mental well being, and a very broad course with a manual, online portal and belt grading system for those who wish to learn the discipline as a way of life. There is a strong community of students of different backgrounds and levels willing to help eachother improve.

Practice outside of class is encouraged, and after a few weeks it will eventually become a habit.
Arjun Thandi profile picture
Arjun Thandi
5 months ago
I feel fortunate to have found Ptah Khi School at a time when I was looking to return to a path of healing and well-being through a martial discipline. It’s a full-spectrum school, covering everything from meditation and Qi Gong to effective self-defence.
Out-of-school practice is encouraged and supported with a comprehensive manual, online videos and digital tutorials.

Much gratitude to Ptah Khi School
Dee Hyns profile picture
Dee Hyns
5 months ago
The instructor Sahu has a vast knowledge of the body and it’s movements. He takes time to explore one’s ability and guides the students to understand themselves and nuture their energy and strength. Physical skills are enhanced for all ages, breathing techniques for better focus along with self defense. Looking for a Tai Chi class the community is very supportive and we learn from each other with Sahu and his team.
Adnan Bajwa profile picture
Adnan Bajwa
6 months ago
Fab and friendly class, always feel better after a session, great teacher...totally recommend!
Audrey Adams profile picture
Audrey Adams
6 months ago
This Tai Chi school has exceeded my expectations in every possible way. What makes it so special is how deeply holistic the practice is — seamlessly combining Qi Gong, martial arts, meditation, and a profound understanding of human physiology.

It has transformed not only how I move, but how I understand my body, my mind, and my place in the world.

Physically, I’ve developed greater agility, flexibility, balance, and awareness of my own capabilities in a way that feels both empowering alongside my previous martial arts training but also gentle.

The learning goes far beyond technique; it builds a true relationship with the body, grounded in understanding rather than force.

Spiritually, the practice has been truly life-affirming. Through meditation, breath, and an awareness of energy, I’ve learned to ground myself, to see the bigger picture, and to feel more connected — not just to myself, but to the people and world around me. There is a depth here that invites reflection, presence, and a sense of meaning that extends well beyond the class itself.

Emotionally, this school has become a vital point of regulation in my week — a genuine pause and safety brake when life, work, and health can feel overwhelming. It offers a rare space simply to be: to slow down, reflect, and share space with others who are on their own journeys of discovery. Whether in the middle or at the end of the week, it consistently brings a sense of calm, balance, and peace that I carry with me long after the session ends.

Sahu is an exceptional teacher and guide on this journey. He brings together his knowledge of physiotherapy and how the body truly works with the ancient wisdom of Tai Chi and Qi Gong, enriched by a deep spiritual awareness informed by other Asian traditions.

The result is something genuinely special — a practice that is intelligent, compassionate, and deeply human. Week by week and month by month, it continues to support my growth on every level, and I am profoundly grateful to be part of it.
Maxine AyodeleR profile picture
Maxine AyodeleR
6 months ago
Ime fortunate to be attending Tai Chi classes close to home. Sifu is a knowledgeable instructor. The community of students in his school are dedicated and helpful. Since I joined Sifu's classes I have continued to catch up with the benefits of chi gong which Ive learnt on my stress management journey over the years.
Maxine Ayodele profile picture
Maxine Ayodele
6 months ago
In October 2025 I joined a TainChi introduction session given by Sifu’s daughter on a retreat in Portugal and knew that I had found the third fitness class I need each week. At 75 exercise is key to my holistic wellness.. Every exercise, movement, instruction and lecture feeds me mentally, physically and spiritually. I am so glad to find this Tai Chi School so close to home. Since I joined I have been able to attend weekly classes at Pringles Gardens as well as online especially if I miss a class where community engagement matters so much to me. 🌀☯️
Daniel Nundloll profile picture
Daniel Nundloll
6 months ago
I’ve had a really great experience training at Ptah Khi for the last three months. The instructors clearly know their art, and have a deep understanding of Tai Chi, but they’re also very patient, welcoming, and easy to learn from. You never feel rushed or out of place, no matter your level. Sahu and his team really take good care to understand their students, and help them improve.
The vibe is relaxed and friendly, and the community is genuinely supportive. Everyone’s approachable, which makes training enjoyable and motivating.
I’ve also noticed real positive changes in both my mental and physical health since starting — less stress, better focus, improved balance, and just feeling better overall. It’s been a really positive addition to my routine.
Highly recommend if you’re looking for proper Tai Chi in a welcoming environment.
Graham Tacon profile picture
Graham Tacon
6 months ago
This is an excellent school for traditional martial arts. It has a deep wealth of wisdom and a very old lineage of authentic Wudang Taiji chuan with a very robust hand form that is an absolute gem for anyone, beginner to advanced practitioners and even people that have already done martial arts for decades. Speaking from experience it's rare to find a real traditional school with such attention to detail in their hand form. Not to mention a playful community and spirit of students that absolutely thrive in national competitions taking home many achievements.
Nia-Re Paul profile picture
Nia-Re Paul
2 years ago
Tai chi has been a wonderful way to connect my body and mind as a young adult. It helped to further my understand of physically and spiritual anatomy. With a whirlwind of health benefits and teaching you a range of self defence skills. Building my determination which I have used throughout my life experiences. It has been an all around wonderful experience and journey that I am happy to have taken with the Ptah khi school, highly recommend 😉
marsha Douglas profile picture
marsha Douglas
2 years ago
My children have been attending Tai Chi for several years, and this has helped increase their focus, mental health and sense of self. They have had opportunities to lead sections of the class and see their progress over time. It has supported their confidence in self-defence but also learn the history of the art and how to apply the principles in their everyday life.
Sal G profile picture
Sal G
2 years ago
Have been attending the class for a few months now and have to say it’s one of the best decisions I made.
Great teacher understanding clear concise and takes time with each student and works to your ability but promotes you to push pass and grow.
Highly recommended great group of people.
chescauk hodds profile picture
chescauk hodds
2 years ago
One definition of stress is that it’s a mis balance of the PERCEIVED demands of a situation and your PERCEIVED ability to cope. Tai Chi has calmed me down and given me focus so that adverse situations are no longer so dramatic and breathing has helped me more accurate realise my talents. Plus classes are fun and v social !
My body issues is l have sciatica in both of my posterior. And l have hip flexor problems one side of my body is stronger than the other. Learning this form of discipline has improved my hip flexor mobility and my overall flexibility in leaps and bounds. The ba duan jin movement we practice in class uses various movements that work on various internal organs in the body to support a healthy body. l practice ba duan jin on a regular basis for my fitness journey.
J O profile picture
J O
2 years ago
Tai Chi is a beautiful way to learn more about yourself and fantastic for your well-being.
The Tai Chi instructor is knowledgeable and welcoming, and allows you to learn at your own pace, and provides all the support you need to improve your practice.
Helen Samuels profile picture
Helen Samuels
2 years ago
I've been attending the Ptah Khi School for many years. I am proud to say that that I'm part Tai Chi community. Over the years I have benefited greatly from chief instructor Sahu guidance. Other students are so supportive. Great school to attend!!!!
BEGIN THE JOURNEY

Register your interest

Tell us where you are in your practice and we will guide you to the right entry point. Places on the live sessions are limited.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 369 System?

The 369 System is Ptah Khi School’s structured framework for internal cultivation, combining Chi Kung, Tai Chi, Nei Dan and daily practices into a progressive development system.

Is the 369 System suitable for beginners?

Yes. The system begins with foundational principles and progressively develops through deeper stages of practice.

Do I need previous Chi Kung or Tai Chi experience?

No. The foundation level is designed for beginners while also providing structure for experienced practitioners.

How is the 369 System different from a normal Chi Kung course?

Most courses teach individual techniques. The 369 System provides a complete developmental framework showing how practices connect and evolve over time.

Can this lead into instructor training?

Yes. The 369 System forms the foundation pathway for deeper Ptah Khi Academy training and instructor development.

Chi Kung Instructor Course
Continue your journey into teaching and transmission

Health & Longevity Programme
Apply internal cultivation principles to health optimisation

Nei Dan Course
Explore deeper internal refinement