Daoism: The Way of Flourishing

Dao (way)

The ultimate, nameless principle that is the source of all existence.

Laozi (Old Master)

The legendary founder of Daoism and author of its primary text.

Daodejing

The “Classic of the Way and Virtue”; the central scripture of Daoism.

Zhuangzi (Master Zhuang)

An influencer author who used stories and wit to emphasize the spontaneity of the Dao.

De

The power or virtue that an individual gains by living in harmony with the Dao.

Qi

The vital energy or life-breath that flows through all things.

Yin and Yang

Complementary opposite forces that must be balanced.

Wuwei (nonaction)

Effortless action; acting in a way that does not go against the natural flow.

Immortal

A person who has achieved spiritual perfection and extreme longevity through Daoist practice.

Celestial Masters

The first organized Daoist movement, emphasizing communal rituals and health.

Zhang Daoling

The founder of the Celestial Masters tradition.

Complete Perfection

A major monastic branch of Daoism that focuses on internal meditation.

External Alchemy

Attempting to create elixirs of immortality using minerals.

Internal Alchemy

Using meditation and breathwork to transform the Qi within the body.

Tai Chi (Taiji quan)

A physical practice used to move Qi and promote health/longevity.

Feng Shui (wind and water)

The practice of arranging physical spaces to harmonize with the flow of Qi.