Taoism | Philosophy
Taoism, an ancient tradition of philosophy, ethical and religious customs, and spiritual practices, originates in China.
We can only appreciate light if darkness exists. The same is true for: different genders, love and hate, up and down, heat and cold, heaven and earth, near and far, hard and soft, active and passive, and so on. These opposites create a whole, which is indivisible. This concept is symbolized in the Yin and Yang pictured above.
The Tao emphasizes living in harmony with the natural, effortless flow of the universe, or Ch’i. My article seeks to introduce you to the fundamental concepts of Taoism and guide you in incorporating its teachings into your daily life.
Taoism
Taoism may seem complex to many, mainly due to its elusive definition. Unlike many other philosophical or religious systems that define an individual based on their beliefs and judgments, Taoism flips this around. It begins with a simple truth: “The Tao” is undefinable. It then encourages each individual to discover their Tao based on their terms.
This can be challenging for those accustomed to being led with concrete definitions. However, a straightforward way to start understanding Taoism is to look within yourself. Here are some preliminary steps:
Avoid focusing on the Tao’s meaning. This understanding will develop over time.
Grasp what Taoism is. It’s more than a philosophy or religion. It’s a life system, attitudes, and practices aimed at living according to one’s nature.
Accept yourself. This leads to inner peace. Live life and develop who you are. Your nature is both ever-changing and always the same. Instead of trying to reconcile life’s many contradictions, learn to accept your nature.
In essence, Taoism is about flowing with life.
Practicing Taoism
Taoism encourages individuals to flow with life. In simple terms, acceptance of what is. Not grasping desired events nor trying to prevent undesired ones. Instead, acknowledging the flow of life must have both.
Over the years, it has evolved into various forms, with hundreds of variations in Taoist practice existing. Some of these practices are philosophical, while others are religious. Taoism doesn’t distinguish between these labels, as doing so can limit an individual. We are all a blend of many truths. The truth taught in Taoism is to embrace life through actions that support you as a person.
Develop a set of basic guidelines for yourself. These should be helpful, but remember that guidelines don’t dictate how to live. Instead, Taoism teaches that you express your nature by living. These are just guidelines:
With care, assist those who are extended expressions of your nature.
Be true to yourself.
Connect with the world as you wish to be treated.
Connect decisively with those outside your nature.
More concisely, as I’ve posted before, the three R’s have:
Respect for yourself
Respect for all other life forms
Responsibility for every word I utter and every act I take
Find practices that keep your mind, body, and spirit engaged and strong. These practices should support your essence and meet the needs of the moment. For example, practicing martial arts for physical strength, yoga for flexibility, meditation to clear your mind, cycling for enjoyment, and reading for introspection.
Take time to explore and relax. Taoism doesn’t have plans. It’s based on following your instincts and gut feelings.
Learn to breathe and smile. It is a simple practice, but many cannot embrace this fundamental aspect of Taoism. Breathing allows you to align with yourself, while smiling opens up possibilities. In essence, Taoism is acceptance of your life, following your breath to find peace, and opening up a smile to invite possibilities.
Practical Taoist Advice
Take time to heal. At times, learning Taoism can also be a process of healing. Taoism teaches you to embrace your body with patience.
Learn from others. There are over 7 billion people worldwide, and thus, there are over 7 billion paths to Taoism.
Give yourself some quiet time. It’s okay to take time off only to hear yourself and not the noise of civilization.
Embrace imperfections. People often think that life’s goal is perfection, but it’s not. Embrace your faults, as they are critical and defining characteristics of each of us.
Release expectations. The more expectations you have for your life, the less you will become. A Taoist lives without expectations, living fully in the here and now.
The Tao’s Take on Gods
Taoism respects the concept of God. However, the Tao is a concept that describes something beyond our capability to define. This is why Taoists leave the Tao undefined and explore the wonder that opens up.
Taoism teaches a person to be true to their heart. It is about harmonious living, accepting nature, and finding peace within yourself. The path to understanding the Tao is simply accepting yourself and living life to discover who you are. Remember, your nature is ever-changing and always the same. Instead of trying to resolve the various contradictions in life, learn to be aware of your nature.
Taoism is about living and exploring our possibilities, for we are each undefined and of the Tao. Trying to define ourselves limits our nature and what can be done. Therefore, a Taoist embraces the Tao to discover and open up all possibilities instead. You will be comforted yet surprised.
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