The quote above written by Lao Tse exemplifies the magnificent foundation of the Taoist philosophy. The statement illustrates the power of forces in opposition believed to be inhabiting and controlling our universe. While one may remain physically still, in the mind, one may dream and imagine ideas and thoughts beyond our realm of reality. This interpretation of the quote brings our attention to the incredible balance between the complementary but opposing forces of stillness and movement.

Taoism is a philosophical tradition that has influenced Chinese culture for over two millenniums. Many scholars continue to consider Taoism as a form of organized religion or faith, but the belief in the Tao is simply a Chinese philosophy or "way" of life. In its English translation, the Tao can be thought of as the natural order of forces and matter, a force flowing through every living sentient object, as well as through the entire universe. More specifically, the Tao "refers to a power which envelopes, surrounds and flows through all things, living and non-living" (http://www.religioustolerance.org/taoism.htm). . Taoist philosophy promotes

ch has been upset by for example, grief or unhappiness. Since grief is seen in correspondence to metal, earthy herbs with a metal boosting nature may be recommended, and any fire related foods may eliminated from ones diet, as fire destroys metal. Most importantly, the five elements represent the underlying philosophy of the Tao "that everything changes, and furthermore, changes in accordance to a universal law, and that appreciating the changes and working with and not against them makes for a peaceful and happy life" (En BRIT).

Many outstanding scholars and leaders of our world history have come to accept the belief in the balance of these forces controlling the simple and pure nature of life. Taoism currently has about 20 million followers and is primarily centered in Taiwan. Some 30,000 followers can be found in North America while another 2,000 can be found in Canada. Taoism has its most modern affect on our society in areas of acupuncture, meditation, herbalism and martial arts.

Taoist philosophy infers that when opposing forces exist in balance all is calm, while on the other hand, when one force is disproportionate to its complement confusion and disorder arise. This bipolar worldview "does not pertain to the principles of good and evil, but instead, yang and yin represent equally essential forces in the dynamics of an impersonal universe" (Thompson 3). One who can recognize the Yang and Yin in all matter will possess the capability to understand the philosophy of the Tao. In summary, it can be explained that all things in life will move in one direction, and eventually in the other creating a healthy balance in the end. It is a Taoist belief that one who has reached this point in understanding the universe will be able to predict the outcome of events and situations and readily accept the constant evolution of life. The true Taoist understands that every situation will proceed to change when the time is right, and does not proceed to worry in t!

imes of obstacles or hardship, knowing that all will end in peace. To the average person consumed in the Western modern thought, order and balance may seem too simple a concept to control all aspects of our universe and the environments in which we live. We often overlook many obvious realms of balance in our world, that of love and hate, cold and hot and heavy and light, along with many others.

The Chinese philosophy places great importance on that of the "Chi" or internal energy. The Chi is believed to be the vital force that "animates us and keeps us healthy" and is thought to flow through our bodies in a similar fashion as blood flows through our veins (http://www.edepot.com/taocosmology.html.) A blockage of the flow of the Chi through our bodies is believed to be the cause of mental and emotional pain, but a great amount of meditation and relaxation can be the best medicine. Those with a strong Chi are usually lively, bright and full of energy, while on the other hand, those with a weak Chi are mainly dull, have poor health and are frequently depressed. Although the concept of the Chi cannot be literally defined or physically seen, it can be experienced through its manifestation in our souls and its affects on our lives. The energy can also be seen in its manifestation in nature and is believed to be in high concentration where there are clear streams, rolli!

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Approximate Word count = 2269
Approximate Pages = 9 (250 words per page double spaced)