Daoism Natural Agriculture

Daoism is an ancient Chinese tradition that reaches back more than 2,500 years and is in the process of being transmitted and adapted to the global context. Represented in the well-known philosophy of Dao as first expressed in Laozi’s Daode jing, it has also been the indigenous higher religion of traditional China and has played an active role in promoting a large variety of methods that enhance health and increase longevity.

The Daoist tradition is a veritable treasure trove of integrated visions of cosmic and social harmony, of health practices and longevity techniques, as well as of meditation methods for spiritual cultivation. Its overarching goal has been the creation of empowered and healthy individuals, social cohesion, environmental peace, and universal harmony. Yet little of this knowledge is available to modern audiences because it is written in an ancient form of Chinese.

Many in the West are familiar with Daoist informed practices without being aware of their Daoist roots. These practices have in common the search for harmony with nature and society and the cultivation of a universal energy known as qi. For example, Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, and massage (Anmo, Tuina) share the same fundamental worldview as traditional Daoism; they are widely used as complementary medicine in the West and have been acknowledged for their effectiveness in treating many diverse illnesses. Qigong and Taiji quan (Tai Chi)–gentle exercises that include deep breathing and clear mental focus–are practiced widely all over the world to promote health and increase longevity.

Modern agriculture experts believe Daodejing had influence the indigenous farming method in China and lately in Japanese natural farming.