Many people think of Taoism as being restricted to Lao Tzu, the Tao Teh Ching, and possibly some hand-wavy interpretation of the yin-yang symbol. However, it is a very old shamanistic tradition that, in its explicit origins, came into being both to expound upon and also contradict the Confucian idea of order in celestial bureaucracy. Taoism confuses many Westerners as it is a religion that is not a religion, a philosophy that is not a philosophy, and the practices and beliefs that have followed from its sources are as divergent as Catholicism and Satanism. (Which is to say, opposed and yet tied -- much like Taoism and Confucianism.)I'd like to provide some more resources on those interested on exploring Taoism beyond Lao Tzu, and even Chaung Tzu, though some of you might like to begin there.
- First, Sasha's blog "Shaman Science" has many ruminations on the 5 element system.
- My health video playlist contains many Taoist based practices and martial arts. I will continue adding to this -- it is already over 8 hours long!
- Simple breakdown of the 5 elements.
- Motion sensors attached to a Baguazhang practicioner demonstrating one of the most common movements in the form.
- Taiwan Bagua Documentary
- Internal alchemy.
