East Asian Taoism Index Of Taoism Articles Mapping The Territory Share Flipboard Email Print Taoist martial arts practice at dawn (or dusk) - beautiful!. Taoism Principles Origins By Elizabeth Reninger Taoism Expert M.S., Sociology and Philosophy, University of Wisconsin–Madison B.S., Mathematics and Women's Studies, Northwestern University M.S.O.M., Southwest Acupuncture College–Santa Fe Elizabeth Reninger is a Taoist practitioner of qigong, acupuncture, and tuina massage. She is the author of several books on spirituality, including "Physics, Philosophy & Nondual Spiritual Inquiry." our editorial process Elizabeth Reninger Updated June 25, 2019 If I were there personally to offer you a guided tour through this Taoism website, here’s the itinerary that I’d suggest: 1. Getting Oriented To Taoism’s Vast Terrain Introduction To TaoismIn broad brush-strokes, paints a picture of Taoism’s history, world-view and practices. Start here! Basic Concepts Of TaoismDefinitions of: Tao, Qi (Chi), Yin & Yang, Daojia & Daojiao, Five Elements, Ten-Thousand Things, Baibai, Inner Alchemy, Three Treasures, Three Dantiens, Three Purities, Bagua, Grotto-Heavens & Wholesome Earths. A Note On TransliterationWhy is “qi” sometimes spelled “chi” and “Tao” sometimes spelled “Dao”? Glossary Of Common Taoist (Daoist) Terms - With Pinyin & Wade-Giles TransliterationsA great resource, to print and have on hand! Five Simple Lifestyle RecommendationsThings to do to begin embodying Taoist principles in your daily life. Alchemy In Taoist PracticeTwo kinds of “alchemy” important in Taoism’s history. 2. The Tao Taoist CosmologyTaoism’s story of the origin of the Universe. Tao: The Pathless WayWhat is the “tao” of Taoism? Wu WeiThis paradoxical “action of non-action” or "non-volitional action" is one of Taoism’s central values. Practice “Aimless Wandering” To Cultivate Wu WeiA practice to help you cultivate Wu Wei. 3. History Of Taoism Shamanic Origins Of Taoist PracticeTaoism’s roots in the shamanic cultures that settled along the Yellow River. Taoism Through The DynastiesVarious lineages and streams of practice that unfolded through China’s various dynasties. 4. Qi = Life-force Energy What Is Qi (Chi)?To cultivate the direct experience of qi – the life-force energy that animates all of existence – is a central component of Taoist practice. How Does Qigong Work?An introduction to this ancient practice for harmonizing the flow of qi within (and beyond) the human body-mind. The Meridian SystemLike small rivers, the meridians carry qi through the body. Eight Extraordinary MeridiansEven deeper reservoirs of life-force energy. 5. Ceremonial Taoism The Taoist AltarWhat are the elements of a typical Taoist altar? Baibai – Offering Incense To The AltarThe practice of Baibai is one of the most important for Ceremonial Taoism. Major Festivals Of Taoist DeitiesHere are the holidays and festivals celebrated in most Taoist temples. 6. Internal Alchemy The Three TreasuresThe Three Treasures are energetic substances produced in the “laboratory” of the human body, via Inner Alchemy practice. Inner Alchemy OverviewA mapping of the territory of Inner Alchemy practice. 7. Chinese Medicine TCM vs. Five Element ApproachesTwo schools of Chinese Medicine being practiced today, and how they came about. AcupunctureWhat is acupuncture? What does it feel like to receive a treatment? Herbal MedicineThe healing energy of plants is an important part of Chinese Medicine. The Five ShenEach of our internal organs has a “spirit” which defines its function within the human body. 8. Support Along The Way The Importance Of A TeacherHaving the support of a teacher is really important - here are some of the shapes it can take in Taoist practice. Sounds True: Books & MoreAn excellent source of books, CDs and DVDs offering insight and support for spiritual practice. 9. Gender & The Tao Gender & The TaoMen & Women, Masculine & Feminine Energy, Yin & Yang – how does it all play out within Taoist practice? 10. A Sampling Of Qigong & Taoist Meditation Practices The Benefits Of QigongLots of reasons why qigong practice is a really good thing! The Inner SmileOne of the most well-known, powerful and delightful of qigong practices. Walking MeditationA beautiful way of using a common activity to deepen our connection with ourselves and all-that-is. Standing MeditationOne of the most important and powerful of Taoist qigong practices. “Moon On Lake” VisualizationA qigong practice used in many of China’s qigong hospitals. “Holding Heaven In The Palm Of Your Hand” VisualizationChannel the energy of all of the stars and galaxies into your Dantian (lower abdomen). 11. Immortality The Taoist Eight ImmortalsAn introduction to eight of the most revered historical/mythological Taoist adepts. Puppetji: Are You A Puppet?My favorite Immortal … Compiled By Elizabeth Reninger