Master John K. Saw is one of the few internationally recognised masters of Shaolin Lohan Therapeutic Qigong — a rare and powerful internal system that was once reserved exclusively for senior monks within the Shaolin Temple. This ancient form of Qigong, which integrates breath, movement, and meditative focus, was long considered a secret lineage. Master John is an inner chamber disciple of Grandmaster Chen Yong Fa, the fifth-generation direct descendant of the founder of Choy Lee Fut Kung Fu and custodian of the Lohan Qigong system. His position as an inner disciple reflects a deep level of trust and mastery within one of the most revered martial and healing traditions in Chinese history.
For 17 years, Master John served as the Chief Instructor of the Lohan Qigong department at the Choy Lee Fut International Head Office School in Sydney’s Chinatown. During his time there, he trained and mentored hundreds of students and instructors, guiding them in not only the techniques of Lohan Qigong, but its internal alchemy — cultivating vitality, restoring balance, and awakening one’s innate healing potential. His work has been instrumental in the revival and preservation of Lohan Qigong globally, helping to bring this rare art back into the hands of dedicated practitioners around the world.
What makes Master John so unique, however, is not just his technical knowledge — it’s the transformational presence he brings to his teaching. Having overcome significant health challenges himself, including liver issues and a stroke, he experienced the power of Qigong firsthand. His personal healing journey infuses every lesson with authenticity, compassion, and insight. He understands the art not only from the perspective of a master, but from that of someone who has walked through illness and emerged stronger on the other side. As a result, his teachings resonate on a deep level, often described as both energetically uplifting and emotionally grounding.
Master John has shared his knowledge through workshops and seminars across the world, including here at our Academy, where he introduced students to the powerful 18 Lohan forms and advanced energetic cultivation practices. His teachings continue to shape students across all generations — from beginners to advanced martial artists — reminding us that kung fu is not only about combat or movement, but about healing, vitality, and inner strength. Through his work, we are reminded that true mastery begins within, and that the most powerful warrior is also the most compassionate healer.
