Advanced Topics

-Taoism and Nature-

Taoist Legend of The Dragon Well

The Dragon’s Well, a Ming Dynasty Taoist legend from Jiangnan, tells of harmony disrupted by greed and restored through wisdom. Guided by a Taoist master, villagers learn respect for nature, balance, and unity. This timeless tale explores the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world, offering profound lessons on living in alignment with the Tao.

Well of Balance

The Well of Balance, a Taoist legend from the Zhongnan Mountains, teaches harmony within and without. Reflecting one’s inner state, its still waters reveal profound lessons about clarity, balance, and aligning with the Tao.

Snakes in Taoism: Legends, Practice, and Daily Life

Snakes in Taoism symbolize wisdom, transformation, and harmony with nature. From myths like Fuxi and Nuwa’s creation to tales of perseverance at the Dragon Gate, they embody renewal and adaptability. Revered in sorcery and rituals, snakes teach patience, balance, and the flow of the Tao, guiding practitioners toward inner harmony and spiritual insight.

-Taoist Legends and Creatures-

Sword of Divine Balance

Zhenwu, the Taoist warrior deity, forges the Sword of Divine Balance in a mystical cave, shaping a blade not for conquest but for restoring harmony. Guided by divine wisdom, he tempers chaos into order, wielding the sword to mend reality’s fractures. His legend endures as a symbol of cosmic duty and spiritual mastery.

Taoist Sword of Mercy

A Taoist monk, Master Qingshan, forged the Ci Jian, the Sword of Mercy, to grant a painless release to those beyond healing. Wielding the blade with compassion, he balanced life and death along the thinnest edge of the Dao. His tale endures in the misty valleys of Hubei, whispering mercy’s gentle power.

The Taoist Purge and Star Wars’ Order 66

Discover the striking parallels between the Taoist purge during China’s Cultural Revolution and Star Wars’ Order 66. This article explores the destruction of ancient wisdom, the persecution of Taoist masters, and the fall of the Jedi. It also connects legendary Taoist swordsmen to the Jedi, showing how both traditions embody balance and peace.

-Taoism and Love-

Manifesting Love Directly and Quickly with The Tao

Learn a simple, powerful way to invoke love through the Tao. This beginner-friendly guide offers a clear invocation, explains how it works, and shows how your relationship with love—and yourself—can shift. No rituals, no gods—just you, the Tao, and the truth. Begin where you are, and let love arise naturally and deeply aligned.

Love: Burning Passion or Heart Choice?

Taoist love wisdom reveals that healthy love balances emotion, choice, and intuition. Unhealthy love stems from craving or ignoring choice. By cultivating calm and understanding universal love, you can move beyond fear and desperation, building fulfilling relationships rooted in harmony and conscious effort. Love is not an illusion but a deliberate and transformative practice.

Taoists Know Love

Discover Taoist wisdom on love. Learn about its three forms—parental, romantic, and universal—and how they bring harmony and fulfillment.

-Te of Tao and Invocation-

Manifesting Love Directly and Quickly with The Tao

Learn a simple, powerful way to invoke love through the Tao. This beginner-friendly guide offers a clear invocation, explains how it works, and shows how your relationship with love—and yourself—can shift. No rituals, no gods—just you, the Tao, and the truth. Begin where you are, and let love arise naturally and deeply aligned.

The Art of Waiting: Taoist Chanting Guide for Patience and Alignment

Knowing when to wait is one of the most challenging aspects of Taoist practice. This chanting sheet, derived from the Wuzhen Pian, aids practitioners in aligning with the Dao through patience, breath awareness, and rhythmic recitation. With humming, instrumental cues, and structured pauses, it cultivates harmony and acceptance while awaiting the right moment to act.

Cover photo for Episode 3

Podcast Transcription, Episode 3-You Are The Tao

Uncover the truth that You Are the Tao with Master Mikel Steenrod in this enlightening episode. Learn how the Tao is already within you, making enlightenment possible. Explore how acceptance, gratitude, and invocation deepen your connection to the Tao, empowering you to live with clarity and purpose.

Taoist Shrines and Temples

How Taoists Put Chimes at Sacred Sites

In Taoist tradition, leaving chimes at sacred sites is a quiet offering of harmony and protection. Common in temples and pilgrimage paths like Wudang or Qingcheng, this lay practice honors nature, Qi, and fellow travelers. Chimes carry prayers on the wind, blending reverence, simplicity, and sound in service of the Way.

Sacred Sites in the Everyday World

You don’t have to be a monk to embrace Taoist wisdom! This guide explores sacred sites traditionally visited by lay practitioners—mountains, rivers, forests, and caves—and how you can find similar places in your everyday world. Learn simple ways to connect with nature, cultivate mindfulness, and experience the Dao wherever you are.

Hidden Secrets of Taoist Shrines: How Nature and Spirituality Intertwine Across Asia

Discover the unique beauty of Taoist shrines across Asia, from China’s sacred mountain sanctuaries to Korea’s minimalist retreats and Southeast Asia’s vibrant, tropical havens. Unlike grand temples, these intimate spaces blend harmoniously with nature, reflecting local traditions and the spiritual essence of the Tao. Explore how geography and culture shape these hidden gems of spirituality.

-Living as a Taoist-

Ancient to Modern taoist practicing biguan outdoors

Taoist Biguan: Ancient to Modern Retreats for Peace and Clarity

Discover the ancient Taoist practice of Biguan, a quiet retreat for body and spirit. Learn how laypeople today use fasting, stillness, and meditation to restore balance. This guide explores historical roots, daily rituals, preparation tips, and how to try Biguan safely at home.

a taoist observing rest

Taoist Sabbath

Is there a Taoist Sabbath? Not in the traditional sense. Taoism honors the natural need for rest, solitude, and reflection—but not on a fixed day. Instead, Taoists follow the rhythms of life, responding with quiet pauses when the moment calls. In this way, rest becomes sacred—spontaneous, seasonal, and aligned with the Tao.

Painted statue of taoist sage

What is Taoism?

Taoism is a living tradition rooted in ancient Chinese wisdom. From the Xia to the Tang dynasty, it evolved through human methods—rituals, meditation, alchemy, and deep observation of nature. This article explores Taoism’s rich history, sacred texts, and oral teachings, revealing a path shaped not by belief, but by walking with the Tao.