The Western TAO - Part Three - Basic Beliefs
by James Robinson (See also: Part One - An Introduction and Part Two - Basic Beliefs)

The Taoist practices described below when properly followed, should help to prolong life and increase one's chances of achieving perfect harmony with TAO. Taoists believe that a perfect person can become immortal and rise to Heaven, not just in spirit but physically. A number of legendary and historical people are believed to have achieved this immortal state called XIAN. Thus Taoists strive towards XIAN, oneness with the Universe, perfecting their bodies as well as their minds.

THE JIAO-RITUAL AND CELEBRATIONS

Taoist rituals are formal acts that express the continuing renewal of the Universe. In Western Taoism, there are no formal rituals or celebrations prescribed. Each practitioner of Western Tao is allowed to develop his or her own rituals and celebrations. Rituals and celebrations from other religions and philosophies are welcome as long as they are used to increase the spiritually of the individual and don't degraded anyone else or any other things. Some suggested celebrations that Western Taoists are encouraged to participate in are Christmas, New Years, Halloween, Easter, as well as Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter celebrations.

DIET

The Taoist sees the physical body as a kind of microcosm, or miniature model of the universe. Thus, how can a person be in harmony with the universe if his or her body is not in harmony? The way a person treats his or her body is just as important as what a person believes, thinks or does in relation to others. Thus Taoists believe a healthy body is the first step to achieving a high spiritual level. A prudent, balanced diet to maintains health and promote longevity is recommended. But the Taoist diet is different in that nothing is forbidden. It is however recommended that substances harmful to the body be avoided and that everything else be eaten and drunk in a balanced, sensible, healthful way.

MARTIAL ARTS -TAI CHI CHUAN, PA QUA, JONG KUEN PAI

In addition to a healthful diet, exercise, Tai Chi Chuan is considered as an integral part of Western Taoist practice. Exercise improves the flexibility, tone and general health of the body. As an internal system of Kung Fu, also called Soft Boxing, Tai Chi is characterized by its deliberately slow, continuous, circular, well-balanced and rhythmic movements for health, relaxation, body conditioning while practicing and swift, whipping movements when used in self-defense. Originating in China over 700 years ago, Tai Chi Chuan was developed from natural exercises based on animal movements. While Tai Chi involves and exercises the entire body, it does not require a lot of strength as most other exercises and martial arts do. It relies on the natural, internal energy the Chinese called CHI and its cultivation and control. Thus, it is ideal for the young, middle-aged, elderly and even those of ill health. As both an exercise and a martial art, it uses naturally reduces stress, improves muscle tone, co-ordination, enhances balance and promotes internal power and energy. Two important rewards in doing Tai Chi are a refreshed attitude of self-esteem and increased physical achievement.

Pakua and Jong Kuen Pai are two other Internal Martial Arts that are excellent for the Western Taoist to practice. While Pakua is fairly well known, Jong Kuen Pai is a little known family style of Internal Martial Arts that is just becoming known to the general public. The Grandmaster, Laurie Lowe lives and teaches it in Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada.

CHI KUNG -MEDITATION

Chi Kung or meditation quiets the mind and helps us to come into harmony with TAO or the ultimate reality of the Universe. The basis of Western Taoist meditation comes from the TAO TE CHING. Chapter 16 tells us we must empty our minds of all thoughts. This is extremely hard to do without training and a method of practice. Chi Kung can be practiced by anyone by using any of four different postures according to preference or physical condition. The four basic postures are lying down, sitting, standing and moving. Methods of practicing Chi Kung are best learned from an accredited teacher.

THE ARTS

The Western Taoist is encouraged to seek spiritual expression in the Arts whether it is Poetry, painting, writing or any other of the many creative forms of expression.

FENG SHUI

This ancient Chinese art of learning too live in harmony with nature by rearranging your environment is becoming more known to the western world. The practice of it can greatly enhance your understanding of the Way.

SOME LAST WORDS

The above is an attempt to define or identify a broad pathway for seekers in the West to find their own way through the lens of Taoism. Use what you can. Let me know if you have any ideas or comments. All, good or bad, positive or negative, are all of TAO.