Taoism for Beginners (9780804852685)

Taoism for Beginners is a practical guide to applying the key notions, concepts and beliefs underlying Taoism's various branches and schools.

Authors C. Alexander and Annellen Simpkins tap into their years of training and study in meditation, martial arts and Eastern philosophy to provide readers with a comprehensive introduction to the spiritual tenets and attainments that mark the holistic pathway to a life more in balance.

This book offers readers:

• A clear explanation of what Taoism is and how to apply its most salient tenets and teachings to your daily life
• Simple exercises to enable you to lead a calmer and more mindful, connected life—taking in a range of practices that include meditation, breathing, chi kung and tai chi chuan
• An exploration of the origins and background of Taoism, including the various sects and schools of thought
• An informative discussion of key Taoist concepts, including wu-wei (nonaction), yin and yang, and the powerful way of De (the cradle of power, virtue and life)

This new edition has been updated by the author to include the connections between Taoism and mindfulness and meditation, as well as ritualized practices to heighten mind-body connection in order to control chi (energy). Taoist principles and concepts have guided people on the path to harmony, wholeness, balance and greater well-being for millennia. This beginning resource makes an ancient religion, its practices and history accessible for a twenty-first century reader.


About the Author:
Drs. C. Alexander and Annellen Simpkins have been involved with Eastern philosophy for over thirty years. They were first introduced to these ideas through the practice of martial arts which they began in the 1960s, and their interest continued to deepen over time. As psychologists they have specialized in studies of the mind as well as hypnosis. They are authors of numerous books on Eastern philosophy including a series on meditation: Principles of Meditation, Living Meditation and Meditation from Thought to Action, a historical and practical book on Zen entitled Zen Around the World, and the Simple series on different Eastern philosophies: Simple Zen, Simple Taoism, Simple Confucianism, Simple Buddhism, and Simple Tibetan Buddhism. Dr. Simpkins lives in San Diego.