Lao Tzu (Laozi)
The founder of Taoism, his name means 'the old master'
5 Elements
Earth
Water
Fire
Wood Metal
Associated with the color red, and the virtue Joy
Associated with the color yellow, and the virtue Equanimity
Associated with the color blue/black, and the virtue Wisdom/Awe
Associated with the colors green and white, and the virtues Courage and Kindness
These elements are used in Taoist cosmology, traditional Chinese medicine, and other practices to describe relationships and interactions within the natural world
Tao
The essential energy of life, the possession of which enables things and beings to be truly themselves
The central concept of Taoism, the Tao represents the fundamental principle or way of the universe
Yin Yang
Lao Tzu's teachings emphasize simplicity, humility, and living in harmony with the Tao
Principle of natural and complementary forces, patterns and things that depend on one another and do not make sense on their own
Yin is associated with qualities such as darkness, passivity, receptivity, feminine
Yang is associated with qualities like light, activity, assertiveness, and the masculine
Wu Wei
Translates to "non-action" or "effortless action"
Considered to be the highest form of virtue
Encourages spontaneous and natural behavior, in tune with the Tao, rather than aggressive or forced actions
Alchemy
Also known as inner alchemy or Neidan, focuses on the transformation of the individual's spiritual and physical being
Deals with one's energy, emotions, and consciousness to achieve spiritual enlightenment and immortality
Ch'i
Vital life force or energy that flows through all living beings
Its essential for health and well being