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Jet Li - Fearless aka Huo Yuan Jia (2006)

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Taoism: The Ancient Wisdom that Praises Harmony with the Cosmos

Taoism is one of China’s oldest and most influential philosophical and spiritual traditions, whose teachings on the natural flow of life and harmony with the cosmos continue to inspire millions of people around the world. Founded by Laozi (or Lao-Tzu), Taoism is a philosophy that values ​​the path of “Tao” (or “Dao”), a difficult-to-translate concept that can be understood as “the Way,” “the Way,” or “the Source of All Things.” This article explores the origins of Taoism, its core teachings, practices, and its relevance in modern society.

Origins of Taoism: The Legacy of Laozi and Zhuangzi The founding of Taoism is traditionally attributed to Laozi, a sage who lived in the 6th century BCE and whose work, the "Tao Te Ching" (or "Dao De Jing"), is considered the central text of Taoism. It is believed that Laozi, an archivist in the imperial court, left civilization to live in harmony with nature. Before leaving, he wrote his teachings in the "Tao Te Ching", a work filled with poetry and metaphors that describes the Tao and the virtues of living in harmony with it.

Another important Taoist thinker, Zhuangzi, expanded and deepened Laozi's teachings in his eponymous work, known as "Zhuangzi". With a more literary and humorous style, Zhuangzi emphasized individual freedom and the relativity of life, arguing that all things should follow their natural course without being forced.

Core Principles of Taoism Taoism is, at its core, a philosophy of life that seeks harmony with the Tao. Unlike many organized religions, Taoism does not impose rigid dogma or a strict view of morality. Instead, it encourages an intuitive and fluid understanding of the world. The core principles of Taoism include:

The Tao (Dao): The most fundamental concept of Taoism, the Tao, is described as the underlying principle of the universe, a natural way that permeates all things. The Tao cannot be fully understood or described in words, as it is an eternal, invisible force that governs the flow of life. “The Tao that can be spoken is not the eternal Tao,” states Laozi in the “Tao Te Ching.”

Wu Wei (Inaction or Effortless Action): Wu Wei is the principle of non-interference or acting spontaneously and naturally. In Taoism, Wu Wei does not mean passivity, but rather acting in harmony with the natural flow of things, without trying to force results. This approach promotes a life of ease, efficiency, and peace with the universe.

Yin and Yang: Taoism embraces the concept of Yin and Yang, the opposing and complementary forces that make up all things in the universe. Yin (darkness, passivity, feminine) and Yang (light, activity, masculine) are in constant interaction and balance. Taoism teaches that harmony is achieved by recognizing and accepting the dynamic balance of these forces.

Simplicity and Naturalness: Taoism values ​​simplicity, spontaneity, and a return to nature. The Taoist ideal is to live simply, detached from the material excesses and complications of modern life. Nature is seen as a perfect model for how to live in harmony with the Tao.

Immortality and Inner Alchemy: In its religious aspect, Taoism developed practices of meditation, breathing, special diets and exercises such as Tai Chi and Qigong, which aim to cultivate health, prolong life and achieve spiritual immortality. Inner alchemy is a practice that seeks to transform the body and mind to achieve a deeper connection with the Tao.

Taoism as a Religion: Rituals and Deities In addition to its philosophical aspect, Taoism also developed as an organized religion, with temples, rituals, priests and a vast pantheon of deities and spiritual beings. Unlike Confucianism, which focused on social order and ethics, religious Taoism incorporated elements of folk and spiritual practices, such as the veneration of ancestors, nature spirits and gods of health, prosperity and longevity.

Taoist rituals often involve offerings, meditation, chanting and practices for spiritual purification. Many of these ceremonies are intended to restore harmony between humans and the cosmos, warding off negative influences and promoting health and prosperity.

The Influence of Taoism on Chinese Culture Taoism has played a crucial role in shaping Chinese culture, influencing art, literature, medicine and spiritual practices. Traditional Chinese medicine, for example, is based on Taoist principles such as the balance of Yin and Yang and the importance of the free flow of Qi (life energy). Tai Chi, a form of gentle martial art, and Qigong, an energy cultivation practice, have deep roots in Taoism and are still widely practiced today as ways to promote health and well-being.

In art and literature, Taoism has inspired poets, painters, and philosophers to explore themes of nature, freedom, and transcendence. The Taoist philosophy of harmony with nature and simplicity continues to resonate strongly in contemporary culture, not only in China but around the world.

Taoism Today: Relevance and Modern Practices In the modern era, Taoism faces challenges such as rapid urbanization, the pressures of globalization, and competition from other religions and philosophies. However, it continues to attract followers who seek a life in harmony with nature and the universe. Centers of Taoist practice, such as temples, qigong schools, and spiritual retreats, thrive in China and abroad, offering a refuge for those who wish to reconnect with ancient principles.

In recent years, Taoism has also found a new audience in the West, where its meditation practices, holistic health, and philosophy of living in harmony with the environment have attracted people seeking alternatives to the modern lifestyle.

The Living Legacy of Taoism Taoism, with its unique worldview and its call for simplicity and balance, offers a powerful answer to the anxieties of modern life. Through its teachings on embracing the natural flow of life and practicing living in harmony with the cosmos, Taoism remains a source of timeless wisdom. In a world often marked by haste, competition, and disconnection, Taoist principles of serenity, respect for nature, and self-awareness continue to inspire those seeking a calmer, more authentic path.

Taoism, with its invitation to surrender to the natural flow of the universe, reminds us that true wisdom often lies in learning to follow the path, rather than trying to control it. The legacy of Laozi and his followers, perpetuated through centuries of philosophy and spiritual practice, stands as a beacon for all who seek to live authentically and in tune with the cosmos.

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Eagle Claw is a style of Chinese martial arts known for its gripping techniques, system of joint locks, takedowns, and pressure point strikes, which is representative of Chinese grappling known as Chin Na. The style is normally attributed to the famous patriotic Song dynasty General Yue Fei. Popular legends state that he learned martial arts from a Wudang Monk named Zhou Tong and later created Eagle Claw to help his armies combat the invading armies of the Jin dynasty. It was passed down until the Ming dynasty. Thus, the style took on long range strikes and aerial jumps. During the Qing dynasty, the military instructor Liu Shi Jun became known as the modern progenitor of Eagle Claw and taught many students. His student Liu Cheng You later taught Chen Zizheng who was invited to teach the style in the prestigious Chin Woo Athletic Association during the Republican era. The style spread as Chin Woo opened sister schools in other provinces. Today, it is practiced around the world.

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Tai Chi balance and stamina by Yuan Zhi 🥰

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Shaolin Praying Mantis 👊

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 Tai Chi Queen - Liang Bi Ying 😍

👉 抖音号:Bikyliangbiying

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