Introduction to Taoism

Taoism (Daoism) is an ancient Chinese philosophy that teaches us to seek the way of nature and live in harmony with the universe. Through simplicity and inaction, the highest good will be achieved.

This sounds like a dream compared to the culture of America! We are trained that life is complicated and we must take action to succeed. There is so much effort and trying in modern life.

Much of my work with Qigong is based on Taoist principles. I am fortunate to witness the beautiful dance of gentleness and ease that naturally brings about greatness.

The Tao (Dao) is directly translated as "The Way". It is often described as the higher power of the universe, the life force, the origin of all things. It is also said that the Tao cannot be defined; as soon as you name or describe the Tao, it is no longer the Tao.

"The Tao never begins or ends, does nothing, and yet animates everything in the world of form and boundaries, which is called the world of the 10,000 things." (Dyer, 2007, xii)

The classic text of Taoism is called the Tao Te Ching (Dao De Jing). Written around 400 BC, this foundational work is credited to the ancient sage, Lao Tzu (Laozi). It includes 81 verses that resemble riddles and paradoxes, uniting the yin and yang to teach us how to live a peaceful and rewarding life.

"If action seems called for, he asks you to consider non-action. If you feel that grasping will help you acquire what you need or want, he councils you to let go and be patient." (Dyer, 2007, xii)

The Tao Te Ching has been translated thousands of times, each interpreting the Taoist philosophies in various ways.

I recommend for your consideration the version by Wayne Dyer,

Change your Thoughts - Change your Life, Living the Wisdom of the Tao

Dyer reviewed hundreds of translations of the Tao Te Ching and meditated on each verse to provide this in-depth commentary on the nature of our existence.