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Life comes with plenty of unexpected twists and turns. Taoism, an ancient philosophy, can provide a roadmap to navigate those surprising changes.
Taoism teaches how to live in harmony with the Tao, the natural way or flow of the universe, reports the BBC. It emphasizes balance, simplicity, and effortless action, drawing wisdom from nature’s rhythms and patterns.
Think of it like your guidebook to help light the way forward. So, what are the best lessons to keep in mind? Walk the path with wisdom and learn how Taoism can help navigate challenges.
Embrace the Art of Doing Nothing
What’s the secret to living a peaceful life? According to Taoism, it’s about not trying at all! That doesn’t mean sitting around watching Netflix all day. Medium explains that the pathway to peace begins when you let go.
This concept, known as wu wei, teaches that through effortless action, you live life in a flow state in line with nature. Instead of swimming against the current, you learn to float and enjoy the ride. This creates a state of peace and playfulness. As you trust the process and let life run its course, everything falls into place once. In the end, problems simply resolve themselves.
Find Balance in the Yin and Yang of Life
You’ve probably seen the yin yang before, whether as a temporary tattoo or at a Chinese temple. But, have you ever considered the hidden meaning behind it? The circular Taoist symbol consists of two black and white halves that swirl into each other. According to Verywell Mind, the yin yang depicts complementary forces present in all elements of life. Although these forces oppose each other, they also coexist in harmony.
Rather than focusing on one aspect of life, find balance between the yin and the yang. Work hard, but also remember to rest. Help and support those around you, but don’t neglect your own self-care. It’s good to have structure, but try something new and spontaneous from time to time. Maintaining that balance is the key to well-being.
Sit and Forget
Like many other practices from the East, Taoism emphasizes the importance of meditation. According to a blog on the Book of Tao website, the practice of zuowang, meaning sitting and forgetting, provides the foundation for profound peace and overcoming challenges. This progressive meditation practice builds your ability to sit in quiet reflection. Start by setting aside 10 to 15 minutes daily to focus on the breath. Extend that duration to 20 minutes, then 30. Over time, you’ll get better at meditation and develop greater awareness, mental clarity, and contentment.
Keep It Simple
In a world that values excess and materialism, Taoism recommends keeping it simple instead. According to Medium, the relentless pursuit of wealth, status, and approval can feel like chasing moving targets. Taoism teaches that life flows like a river. The fewer rocks you carry, the smoother your passage. Keep your days quiet, and you’ll find more peace and ease. Keep your possessions few, and you’ll find more value in all that you do have. Simplicity is the art of living with just enough, enough to meet your needs, enough to keep your heart light, enough to feel joy in the smallest things.
Nature as the Living Tao
In Taoism, nature is the ultimate teacher. You cannot know that order by reading about it. You must step into it. According to a blog on Taoist Wellness website, when you spend more time outdoors, you observe the wisdom all around you. You learn to align your life with nature’s rhythms. In spring, begin new projects. In summer, act with full energy. In autumn, let go of what is no longer needed. In winter, rest deeply. Step outside, and you return to the harmony you never truly left.
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