Chronicles of Tao


Book Description

This extraordinary spiritual odyssey "transcends the tangible and points to the mysteries of all we can imagine and all we cannot" (Los Angeles Times). Part adventure, part parable, this true story of the making of a Taoist ma ster leads readers through a labyrinth of Taoist practice, martial arts discipline, and international intrigue. Line drawings.




More Tales From The Tao


Book Description

Taoism is a 5,000 year old spiritual tradition from China. It has been a path of balance and harmony for the Chinese people up to modern times. Yet its teachings and truths work for Westerners just as well. In these modern times of fragmentation and societal disorder the teachings in these stories can give us a deeper perspective on the human journey. In its tales of cripples, magical birds, teaching dreams, eccentric teachers, and master butchers we can find much wisdom and advice on how to live out own lives here in the 21st Century. Solala Towler, author of the successful Tales From the Tao book, once again brings his wide knowledge of Taoism and his ability to take these 2,000 old stories and bring them into new life for modern readers. This volume contains 31 stories and over 50 photographs from his travels throughout China. The ancient philosophy of Taoism is a rich mine of teaching stories. The accessible and enlightening collection offers stories from the most celebrated Taoist masters, including Chuang Tzu, Lieh Tzu and quotations from Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching, as well as some of his own original stories inspired by the traditional teachings of Taoism.




More Tales From The Tao


Book Description

This sequel to his popular Tales From the Tao, which has been published in six versions and three languages, takes us further into the world of the ancient Taoist masters. Taoism is a 5,000 year old spiritual tradition from China. It has been a path of balance and harmony for the Chinese people up to modern times. Yet its teachings and truths work for Westerners just as well. In these modern times of fragmentation and societal disorder the teachings in these stories can give us a deeper perspective on the human journey. In its tales of cripples, magical birds, teaching dreams, eccentric teachers, and master butchers we can find much wisdom and advice on how to live out own lives here in the 21st Century. Solala Towler, author of the successful Tales From the Tao book, once again brings his wide knowledge of Taoism and his ability to take these 2,000 old stories and bring them into new life for modern readers. This volume contains 32 stories and over 50 photographs from his travels throughout China. The ancient philosophy of Taoism is a rich mine of teaching stories. The accessible and enlightening collection offers stories from the most celebrated Taoist masters, including Chuang Tzu, Lieh Tzu and quotations from Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching, as well as some of his own original stories inspired by the traditional teachings of Taoism.




Tales from the Tao


Book Description

31 inspiring stories by Chuang Tzu, Lao Tzu, and other Taoist masters—now presented in one easy-to-read volume featuring over 100 photographs. For thousands of years, students of the Tao have gleaned inspiration and illumination from its parables, and these thought-provoking examples discuss topics ranging from dignity in the face of challenge, to judging character, to how to deal with loss. Whether solidifying a spiritual truth, unravelling a puzzle for contemplation, or providing a moment of humor, these tales are a mainstay of Eastern philosophy. This unique collection brings together the most inspiring, illuminating and downright funny stories from the classical works of Taoist masters, alongside new writing inspired by traditional tales. Set against a backdrop of the mountains, waterfalls and gorges of China, these tales introduce important Taoist ideas about many of the most basic human experiences—including birth, death, loss, pleasure, and how to surrender to the most fundamental experience of the Tao itself. Interwoven with classic Taoist quotations and illustrated with beautiful photography throughout, these engrossing narratives are as relevant today as they were in the great dynasties of ancient China.




Wandering on the Way


Book Description

In this vivid, contemporary translation, Victor Mair captures the quintessential life and spirit of Chuang Tzu while remaining faithful to the original text.




Lao-Tzu's Treatise on the Response of the Tao


Book Description

Taoists and non-Taoists alike consider Lao-Tzu's Treatise on the Response of the Tao, written by the twelfth-century sage Li Ying-Chang, an essential guide to living. Presenting foundational teaching and practices of the Action and Karma school of Taoism, it is replete with stories illustrating the teachings and an introductory essay that discusses the more esoteric meanings of the passages. Told with clarity and depth, these seminal Taoist teachings offer guidance on leading a balanced, healthy life. Sponsored by the Fung Loy Kok Institute of Taoism




The Show-Off Monkey and Other Taoist Tales


Book Description

A picture book of Taoist wisdom tales inspired by the ancient philosopher Chang Tzu, for children ages 5-10, beautifully illustrated with original artwork. “If we are true to who we are, we will naturally find what is right.” “Beauty is in the eyes and mind of the beholder.” “What is good in life is not always obvious.” These morals are inspired by the teachings Taoist philosopher Chuang Tzu (fourth century b.c.e.), who through charming and sometimes cryptic fables explained to his students the qualities of humility, modesty, simplicity, acceptance, and contentment. In “The Sea Turtle and the Frog,” two creatures share their unique perspective on the world. “The Happy Fish” offers a reflection on what makes for a good leader. And “The White Peacock” demonstrates the virtues of a simple life rather than one adorned with material riches. Beautifully illustrated in the traditional Asian style by artist Mark McGinnis, this book collects thirty-three of these traditional Taoist wisdom tales that will teach readers young and old about the Taoist view of living in harmony with the natural world.




Practicing the Tao Te Ching


Book Description

Most people think of the Tao Te Ching as a book on philosophy or a treatise on leadership. Yet there is a little-known treasure hidden within the familiar passages of Lao Tzu’s work: step-by-step practical guidance for the spiritual journey. With Practicing the Tao Te Ching, renowned teacher Solala Towler reveals a new facet to this spiritual classic, offering accessible instructions paired with each of the 81 verses of the Tao Te Ching. "Tao is a way of deep reflection and learning from nature, considered the highest teacher," writes Towler. "It teaches us to follow the energy flows within the heavens, the earth, and our own bodies." With lucid instruction and deep insight, he guides you through meditations, movement and breathing practices, subtle energy exercises, and inner reflections—all to help you to embody Taoist wisdom in every aspect of your life.




The Wisdom of the Tao


Book Description

Taoism is an ancient Chinese philosophy that emphasizes living in harmony with the universe. It is a tradition that has become widely popular in Europe and North America over the past fifty years—largely through its core text, the Tao Te Ching. The Wisdom of the Tao is filled with over 140 ancient stories express great truth by fusing anecdotes with philosophy. The stories are frequently humorous, ribald, irreverent, or sarcastic—but they always speak to great and universal truths. Here are stories that lead people to: Flow with life Live from the heart Develop an openness to possibilities Live in balance Drop expectations Embrace acceptance The wisdom here fills a universal need. We need stories. They help us make sense of who we are and how we got here. They keep us sane as we try to absorb our experiences, our aging, and our emotions. Stories help us visualize the future by taking the messages of yesterday and helping us get tomorrow right.




The Second Book of the Tao


Book Description

Following the phenomenal success of his own version of the Tao Te Ching, a renowned scholar and translator delivers a 21st-century form of ancient wisdom into the modern world.