Alan Watts, a pivotal spiritual teacher, dives into the heart of Taoism, unraveling ancient Chinese philosophies with profound insights. He discusses the dynamic interplay of Yin and Yang, revealing the inseparable nature of opposites. Watts challenges societal conventions and invites listeners to embrace their mortality, suggesting that acceptance leads to liberation in life's later stages. He also emphasizes the philosophy of 'wu wei,' advocating for a harmonious flow with the universe, encouraging us to act naturally and let go.
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insights INSIGHT
Societal Conventions
Societal conventions, like clocks and calendars, help us function.
These useful tools can be mistaken for reality, causing confusion.
insights INSIGHT
The Ego as a Social Construct
The ego, a social construct, not biological, is shaped by assigned roles.
We are constantly told who we are, leading to identification with these roles.
insights INSIGHT
Taoism and the Undefinable Tao
Taoism focuses on the fundamental way of nature (Tao), which is undefinable.
Like your true self, the Tao cannot be grasped directly through definition.
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In "Tao for Now," Mark Watts presents a collection of Alan Watts' talks on Taoism, offering a contemporary perspective on ancient wisdom. The book explores core Taoist concepts such as the Tao, Yin and Yang, and Wu Wei, making them accessible to modern readers. Watts' insightful interpretations bridge Eastern and Western thought, encouraging readers to find harmony and balance in their lives. The book includes previously unreleased talks, providing fresh insights into Watts' philosophy. It's a valuable resource for those seeking spiritual guidance and a deeper understanding of Taoist principles.
Join us on a journey of contemplation and enlightenment in this captivating introduction to Taoism.
Discover the profound wisdom of Taoist philosophy with Alan Watts as he invites us to embrace the course of nature. Through insightful exploration, he delves into the timeless significance of Yin and Yang, illustrating their inseparable connection and guiding us toward a deeper understanding of harmony and balance in existence.
Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/alan
In this episode, Alan Watts speaks about:
Ancient Chinese philosophies
How social institutions are mistaken for the real world
The self, Confucianism, and the roles we play in life
Taoism and the basic energy of the universe
Tao as the force of nature
How space and solid are two facets of one reality
Yang and Yin, positive and negative, male and female
Conscious dying and preparing to let go
Acting in accordance with nature
This series is brought to you by the Alan Watts Organization and Ram Dass’ Love Serve Remember Foundation. Visit Alanwatts.org for full talks from Alan Watts.
“It is the inner connection, or rather the inseparability of Yang and Yin, which is what is meant by Tao. That’s why Tao cannot be explained. The reason again if I may put it in another way is that all thinking is classification. It’s asking ‘is you is or is you aint’. Is it this or is it that. After all, if you want to say something is inside it requires an outside. You can’t have an inside without an outside or an outside without an inside.”– Alan Watts
Alan Watts Being in the Way 