Taoism, sometimes called “Daoism,” is an ancient Chinese philosophy and a religion for some people. Founded by Lao Tzu or Laozi, you’ve probably come across his famous and timeless quotes. The philosophy was based on his writings, most notably, the Tao Te Ching. Eventually, Western civilization adopted the tenets. Taoism is a way of living that can enrich your life. Tao means “the way” or “path” and can be adapted to all areas of life. To learn about common practices, you can read this Harvard article.
Taoism offers methods that can help you give your life balance. The philosophy has four primary principles. It takes practice, discipline, and time to learn how to navigate your way through life. Green Dragon has published several adaptations of the Tao Te Ching. Our Taoist books address different facets from management to recovery. Embracing the core philosophies of Taoism can genuinely help enhance your life.
“The Tao” cannot be easily explained or defined. Yet, you can learn about Taoism and practice the four central beliefs:
1. Practice Simplicity, Patience, and Compassion.
Achieving these qualities is easier said than done. Living a simpler life and not focusing on possessions helps you gain appreciation. Being patient with and showing compassion towards others enhances relationships.
Lao Tzu stated in The Tao Te Ching, “I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.”
2. Go with the flow.
Not stressing over things and overthinking will improve your life. Take things as they come and go. Don’t try to force or control situations in your life. When you learn not to overreact, you’ll find inner calm.
“Those who flow as life flows know they need no other force.” Lao Tzu
3. Letting Go
Sometimes, letting go is one of the hardest things to do. Yet, you have to learn to release things or people that don’t serve you. When you hold onto things that don’t flourish, this creates setbacks and stagnancy.
“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be. When I let go of what I have, I receive what I need.” The Tao of Leadership
4. Harmony
By achieving harmony in your life and getting closer to nature, you’ll gain balance. Tying all of the principles together and practicing them leads to peace. As you live a more balanced life, you’ll be more satisfied and fulfilled.
“The Tao is unpredictable to those that live according to plans. Only those who have no agenda are in harmony with the Tao.” Lao Tzu
Mostly everyone is familiar with the Yin and Yang symbol, which coincides with Taoism. Yin and Yang (male and female) show a balance of “polar opposites.” If you try too much, you get lost and lose focus, becoming unbalanced. Learning how polarities work teaches you to go with the flow. Another paradox is the “Wu Wei,” which translates to “doing nothing.” It does not mean just waiting for things to happen. Instead, taking part in natural or effortless action lets you take on tasks at ease. This approach helps you master skills and become more efficient over time.
To start gaining better control of your life, learning about Taoism is beneficial. Once you grasp the basic concepts and put them into motion, you’ll notice changes. As you continue on “the path,” you’ll be able to dive deeper into the philosophy. Seeing our Taoism books authors’ success should inspire you. With discipline and practice, you can “get there.”