How to Become a Taoist
Take some quiet time for yourself and read the Tao Te Ching, an ancient book of Chinese folk wisdom attributed to the sixth-century BC sage Lao-Tzu., Research Taoism further., Call yourself a Taoist if you find Taoist ideas appealing., It would be...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Take some quiet time for yourself and read the Tao Te Ching
It's not to be read in one sitting, but rather to be contemplated over time.
But if you're looking for a gentler introduction — especially if you're not yet committed, but simply deciding whether Taoism is right for you — may we humbly suggest the following? The writings of Chuang-Tzu (Zhuangzi).
His writings offer a more down-to-earth and humorous perspective on the principles of Taoism.
Together, Lao-Tzu and Chuang-Tzu make up the yin and yang of primary Taoist texts, and we recommend both.
Zhuangzi Speaks and The Tao Speaks by Ts'ai Chih Chung.
The Tao of Pooh and The Te of Piglet by Benjamin Hoff — these companion books are intended for those who do not fully understand Taoism, and though they're based on Winnie the Pooh, they're easily accessible to readers of all ages. -
Step 2: an ancient book of Chinese folk wisdom attributed to the sixth-century BC sage Lao-Tzu.
Many translations of Taoist texts (see below) can be found in bookstores, libraries, and the Internet.
Be sure to find a quality translation of the Tao Te Ching and other Chinese texts.
Since the English and Chinese languages are so different, a good translation can make all the difference. , To be consistent, begin applying the philosophical principles to your actions. , Joining a Guan can benefit you greatly and improve the pace in which you achieve peace of mind and body.
Alternatively the Reform Taoist Congregation offers an online community of philosophical Taoists. , This may lead to spiritual and philosophical communion, also known as "peace".
Even before peace is achieved, it will begin to spread outward into other people and the world around you. , Neijia (Chinese 內家 nèijiā), usually translated as "internal martial arts"
follow many Taoist principles, and are sometimes called "physical Taoism". -
Step 3: Research Taoism further.
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Step 4: Call yourself a Taoist if you find Taoist ideas appealing.
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Step 5: It would be wise to join a Taoist group if one is available where you live.
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Step 6: Use the ideas of the Tao to restructure your thinking and lifestyle.
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Step 7: Learn an internal cultivation art form such as Qi Gong
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Step 8: Tai Chi
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Step 9: or Taoist Yoga.
Detailed Guide
It's not to be read in one sitting, but rather to be contemplated over time.
But if you're looking for a gentler introduction — especially if you're not yet committed, but simply deciding whether Taoism is right for you — may we humbly suggest the following? The writings of Chuang-Tzu (Zhuangzi).
His writings offer a more down-to-earth and humorous perspective on the principles of Taoism.
Together, Lao-Tzu and Chuang-Tzu make up the yin and yang of primary Taoist texts, and we recommend both.
Zhuangzi Speaks and The Tao Speaks by Ts'ai Chih Chung.
The Tao of Pooh and The Te of Piglet by Benjamin Hoff — these companion books are intended for those who do not fully understand Taoism, and though they're based on Winnie the Pooh, they're easily accessible to readers of all ages.
Many translations of Taoist texts (see below) can be found in bookstores, libraries, and the Internet.
Be sure to find a quality translation of the Tao Te Ching and other Chinese texts.
Since the English and Chinese languages are so different, a good translation can make all the difference. , To be consistent, begin applying the philosophical principles to your actions. , Joining a Guan can benefit you greatly and improve the pace in which you achieve peace of mind and body.
Alternatively the Reform Taoist Congregation offers an online community of philosophical Taoists. , This may lead to spiritual and philosophical communion, also known as "peace".
Even before peace is achieved, it will begin to spread outward into other people and the world around you. , Neijia (Chinese 內家 nèijiā), usually translated as "internal martial arts"
follow many Taoist principles, and are sometimes called "physical Taoism".
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James Thompson
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