Taoism (Daoism) Explained by Taoist Master

The speaker, living in a Tai Chi school in the Wudang mountains, introduces Taoism; an ancient Chinese philosophy and religion dating back 2500 years to the Dao de Jing by Lao Tzu. The central idea of Taoism is to follow the Dao, or the path/way.

Breaking down the Chinese character for Dao, the video explains the meaning behind its components: 'yin and yang' representing balance, 'oneself' indicating that Dao is within, and 'to go/to move/to act' suggesting that through our own actions, we can find balance without external reliance.

The Dao is not a tangible 'thing' but rather the underlying order that governs the universe. The key is to be sensitive to how the universe works and live in harmony with it, which is what 'following the Dao' entails. Taoist teachings offer guidelines for this.

A story illustrates Taoist perspective: Confucius finds vinegar sour (world out of order), Buddha finds it bitter (life is suffering from desires), but Lao Tzu smiles, finding it pleasant. This represents how bitterness and sourness come from an unappreciative mind, while a Taoist sees the natural rhythm in everything, even unpleasant experiences.

Master Gu explains that human beings come from nature and must follow nature's path. Nature itself has no sour or bitter, only its own rhythm. He emphasizes that 'life is like a mirror': if you frown, it frowns; if you smile, it smiles. Taoists are very concerned about life and its smile because they are mixed with the whole universe.

The video suggests that Taoist philosophy offers guidelines for a contented and happy life, especially for those experiencing overactive minds, depression, or anxiety. The speaker invites viewers to engage in a two-way dialogue to explore how Taoism can be applied to personal challenges.

Master Gu is presented as an embodiment of Taoist principles: a joyous man who smiles often, is artistic, and full of energy despite his age. The speaker is excited to share the teachings that contribute to these qualities and poses a question to viewers about their initial impressions of Taoism.