The journey into self...

Taoism is concerned with the nature of our existence. It is not a religion in the common sense of that term.
It asks hard questions about our values, beliefs and perceptions.
It posits the possibility that much of our knowledge is based on cultural conditioning, rather than fact.

A serious journey into taoism will challenge the most ardent student.
There are no rituals, dogmas or practices to perform.
No worship.

The insights uncovered by your study will affect your everyday life.
Taoists try to appreciate, learn from and work with whatever happens in life, rather than impose order on a chaotic world.

Taking an unflinching look at who you are and how you live your life will go a long way to tempering your ego.
Taoism is not for people seeking a new 'lifestyle region'.
It is uncompromising.

As an off-shoot of taoism, zen also warrants some serious study.

Immersion in the way...

Mastering yourself is not so easy.
Taoism counsels you to remain quiet and anonymous, to avoid attracting attention.
You must become one with the tai chi, and one with everything around you.
The process refers to the ongoing loss of self and the immersion of your mind and body in tao:

1. No ego.
2. No opinions.
3. No aggression.
4. No attitude.
5. No pride.
6. No vanity.
7. No petty behaviour.
8. No cruelty.

Lose everything that stops you from being a pure, natural person.
Only when you have surrendered every thought, memory and pre-conception can you begin to feel humble and compassionate.
These qualities must be genuine, not artifice.

It may take a lifetime but it will be time well spent.

 Taoism furnished the basis for aesthetic ideals, zen made them practical.

(Kakuzo Okakura)