1 00:00:00,630 --> 00:00:06,160 Lao Tzu, was an ancient Chinese philosopher and is credited as the author of the Tao Te 2 00:00:06,160 --> 00:00:10,540 Ching, one of the fundamental texts of Taoism. 3 00:00:10,540 --> 00:00:15,820 The Tao Te Ching is a collection of verses that explore the concept of the Tao, which 4 00:00:15,820 --> 00:00:20,039 can be translated as "the Way" or "the Path." 5 00:00:20,039 --> 00:00:25,450 Taoism is a philosophical and spiritual tradition rooted in these teachings. 6 00:00:25,450 --> 00:00:30,650 It emphasizes living in harmony with the natural order of the universe and attaining a state 7 00:00:30,650 --> 00:00:34,550 of balance and unity with oneself and the world. 8 00:00:34,550 --> 00:00:40,989 Taoism, with its profound wisdom, offers valuable insights into the human condition, particularly 9 00:00:40,989 --> 00:00:43,940 concerning the nature of worry. 10 00:00:43,940 --> 00:00:49,570 According to Taoist philosophy, worry arises from our attachments to specific outcomes, 11 00:00:49,570 --> 00:00:53,520 excessive planning, and our struggle to embrace the natural flow of life. 12 00:00:53,520 --> 00:00:58,829 The teachings of the Tao also remind us that being overly preoccupied with the past or 13 00:00:58,829 --> 00:01:05,379 future disrupts our connection with the present moment, leading to disharmony and distress. 14 00:01:05,379 --> 00:01:11,130 In this video, we draw inspiration from the timeless wisdom of Lao Tzu and present five 15 00:01:11,130 --> 00:01:18,490 practical ways to overcome worrying, empowering ourselves to live more harmoniously and joyfully 16 00:01:18,490 --> 00:01:20,510 in the present. 17 00:01:20,510 --> 00:01:21,939 1. 18 00:01:21,939 --> 00:01:29,000 Slow down Lao Tzu says "Nature does not hurry, yet everything 19 00:01:29,000 --> 00:01:30,930 is accomplished.” 20 00:01:30,930 --> 00:01:37,670 Lao Tzu's principle of Wu Wei, often translated as "effortless action" or "non-doing," suggests 21 00:01:37,670 --> 00:01:43,720 that we can alleviate worry by slowing down and flowing with the natural rhythms of life 22 00:01:43,720 --> 00:01:46,110 rather than forcing or rushing things. 23 00:01:46,110 --> 00:01:51,450 To illustrate this principle, imagine a river flowing downhill. 24 00:01:51,450 --> 00:01:56,539 The water effortlessly navigates the twists and turns, adapting to the landscape without 25 00:01:56,539 --> 00:01:59,030 hesitation or resistance. 26 00:01:59,030 --> 00:02:04,549 It doesn’t struggle against obstacles but finds a way around them, always moving forward 27 00:02:04,549 --> 00:02:07,289 with grace and ease. 28 00:02:07,289 --> 00:02:13,069 In this metaphor, the river represents the natural flow of life, and Wu Wei is akin to 29 00:02:13,069 --> 00:02:14,780 flowing with that current. 30 00:02:14,780 --> 00:02:21,800 Wu Wei does not imply inaction or laziness but rather a state of harmony where we act 31 00:02:21,800 --> 00:02:27,110 spontaneously and effortlessly, without force or resistance. 32 00:02:27,110 --> 00:02:32,940 Instead of trying to control or force outcomes, we learn to flow and trust in the natural 33 00:02:32,940 --> 00:02:34,690 course of life. 34 00:02:34,690 --> 00:02:41,160 Now, let's apply the principle of Wu Wei to the context of relationships. 35 00:02:41,160 --> 00:02:45,490 Imagine you're in a romantic relationship and find yourself constantly worrying about 36 00:02:45,490 --> 00:02:51,629 the future, seeking reassurance, or trying to control the other person's actions. 37 00:02:51,629 --> 00:02:57,709 These worries and efforts to control stem from a place of fear and insecurity. 38 00:02:57,709 --> 00:03:03,110 By applying the principle of Wu Wei, you would practice slowing down and flowing with the 39 00:03:03,110 --> 00:03:05,500 natural dynamics of the relationship. 40 00:03:05,500 --> 00:03:11,390 Rather than trying to force certain outcomes or constantly seeking validation, you would 41 00:03:11,390 --> 00:03:15,400 cultivate a state of presence and acceptance. 42 00:03:15,400 --> 00:03:21,340 Letting go of attachment to specific expectations, you trust that the relationship will naturally 43 00:03:21,340 --> 00:03:25,180 evolve and unfold as it should. 44 00:03:25,180 --> 00:03:30,650 This doesn't mean becoming passive or indifferent, but rather finding a balance between expressing 45 00:03:30,650 --> 00:03:36,349 your needs and desires while allowing space for the other person to do the same. 46 00:03:36,349 --> 00:03:41,730 By practicing Wu Wei in relationships, you reduce unnecessary worry and anxiety that 47 00:03:41,730 --> 00:03:45,640 arises from trying to control or manipulate outcomes. 48 00:03:45,640 --> 00:03:52,360 Instead, you focus on nurturing the connection, communicating honestly, and allowing the relationship 49 00:03:52,360 --> 00:03:55,790 to grow and evolve naturally. 50 00:03:55,790 --> 00:04:00,420 Embracing the principle of Wu Wei in our modern-day world, where speed and instant gratification 51 00:04:00,420 --> 00:04:07,090 often dominate, can help us slow down, find balance, and reduce worry in various aspects 52 00:04:07,090 --> 00:04:08,540 of our lives. 53 00:04:08,540 --> 00:04:13,650 It reminds us to align ourselves with the natural flow of life, trust in the process, 54 00:04:13,650 --> 00:04:16,769 and embrace the beauty of effortless action. 55 00:04:16,769 --> 00:04:23,710 By doing so, we cultivate a deeper sense of peace, harmony, and overall well-being. 56 00:04:23,710 --> 00:04:26,810 2. 57 00:04:26,810 --> 00:04:30,360 Surrender to the natural flow of life 58 00:04:30,360 --> 00:04:32,550 Lao Tzu tells us that… 59 00:04:32,550 --> 00:04:37,490 “Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. 60 00:04:37,490 --> 00:04:40,750 Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. 61 00:04:40,750 --> 00:04:44,449 Let reality be reality. 62 00:04:44,449 --> 00:04:49,940 Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” 63 00:04:49,940 --> 00:04:54,840 Lao Tzu believed in the inherent wisdom of the universe and its natural order. 64 00:04:54,840 --> 00:04:59,229 He encouraged individuals to trust in the unfolding of events and have faith in the 65 00:04:59,229 --> 00:05:00,860 larger picture. 66 00:05:00,860 --> 00:05:04,950 By understanding that everything happens for a reason and that we are part of a larger 67 00:05:04,950 --> 00:05:11,230 tapestry, we can let go of worries and find solace in cosmic order. 68 00:05:11,230 --> 00:05:15,949 In our modern world we have deployed a belief that we can micromanage every aspect of our 69 00:05:15,949 --> 00:05:17,050 lives. 70 00:05:17,050 --> 00:05:23,830 We meticulously plan and strategize, trying to shape outcomes according to our preferences.This 71 00:05:23,830 --> 00:05:28,800 emphasis on control not only hinders our trust in the universe and its inherent wisdom but 72 00:05:28,800 --> 00:05:31,210 also breeds worry and anxiety. 73 00:05:31,210 --> 00:05:37,479 By becoming overly attached to specific outcomes and fearing the unknown, we rob ourselves 74 00:05:37,479 --> 00:05:42,380 of the peace that comes from embracing the natural order of things. 75 00:05:42,380 --> 00:05:47,699 Lao Tzu's teachings on the other hand remind us of the limitations of our control and the 76 00:05:47,699 --> 00:05:50,740 importance of trusting in the larger picture. 77 00:05:50,740 --> 00:05:55,750 By letting go of our excessive need for control and embracing the wisdom of the universe, 78 00:05:55,750 --> 00:06:01,060 we can find solace amidst the chaos and uncertainty of life. 79 00:06:01,060 --> 00:06:05,630 Imagine you are a software engineer considering a career change to pursue your passion for 80 00:06:05,630 --> 00:06:08,199 environmental sustainability. 81 00:06:08,199 --> 00:06:12,580 You've been working in the tech industry for years, but the desire to explore a different 82 00:06:12,580 --> 00:06:14,580 field keeps growing. 83 00:06:14,580 --> 00:06:19,300 This decision is as much significant as it is uncertain, as you contemplate leaving the 84 00:06:19,300 --> 00:06:24,639 familiar tech world behind for a new opportunity in sustainability. 85 00:06:24,639 --> 00:06:30,289 Applying Lao Tzu's teachings, you approach this situation as a boat floating on a river. 86 00:06:30,289 --> 00:06:35,960 The river represents the natural flow of life and the unfolding events of your career. 87 00:06:35,960 --> 00:06:41,819 Instead of becoming consumed by overanalysis or obsessing about the outcome, you cultivate 88 00:06:41,819 --> 00:06:45,949 trust in the inherent wisdom of the universe. 89 00:06:45,949 --> 00:06:51,380 Like a boat on the river, you trust that events and opportunities in your career will guide 90 00:06:51,380 --> 00:06:53,419 you to where you need to be. 91 00:06:53,419 --> 00:06:58,199 You recognize that there's a larger plan at play, connecting your journey with the broader 92 00:06:58,199 --> 00:07:00,120 flow of life. 93 00:07:00,120 --> 00:07:06,620 While maintaining this trust, you take action, updating your skills, networking with sustainability 94 00:07:06,620 --> 00:07:10,720 professionals, and actively seeking relevant opportunities. 95 00:07:10,720 --> 00:07:16,259 Just like a boat steering to avoid obstacles or reach desired destinations, you navigate 96 00:07:16,259 --> 00:07:22,210 the job market using your experience and expertise while exploring new paths aligned with your 97 00:07:22,210 --> 00:07:23,210 passion. 98 00:07:23,210 --> 00:07:28,380 Let's say you secure a position in a sustainability-focused organization. 99 00:07:28,380 --> 00:07:33,920 However, as time goes on, you realize it's not as fulfilling as you expected. 100 00:07:33,920 --> 00:07:39,110 Instead of getting frustrated or regretting your decision, you adopt a mindset of acceptance 101 00:07:39,110 --> 00:07:42,220 and seek to learn from the experience. 102 00:07:42,220 --> 00:07:47,810 You understand that everything has its place and purpose in the natural order of things.By 103 00:07:47,810 --> 00:07:53,110 embracing this perspective, you shift your focus from dwelling on what could have been 104 00:07:53,110 --> 00:07:58,430 to fully engaging with and learning from your present circumstances. 105 00:07:58,430 --> 00:08:02,750 You trust that the unfolding events of your career will lead you to where you need to 106 00:08:02,750 --> 00:08:03,890 be. 107 00:08:03,890 --> 00:08:08,210 You find peace in the knowledge that you are connected to something greater, like the boat 108 00:08:08,210 --> 00:08:13,770 on the river surrendering to the natural flow of things and finding solace in the guidance 109 00:08:13,770 --> 00:08:17,230 of the larger tapestry of life. 110 00:08:17,230 --> 00:08:18,740 3. 111 00:08:18,740 --> 00:08:21,280 Embrace the present moment 112 00:08:21,280 --> 00:08:26,630 According to Lao Tzu “If you are depressed you are living in the past. 113 00:08:26,630 --> 00:08:30,500 If you are anxious you are living in the future. 114 00:08:30,500 --> 00:08:35,050 If you are at peace you are living in the present.” 115 00:08:35,050 --> 00:08:40,260 Lao Tzu recognized that dwelling on the past or worrying about the future can consume our 116 00:08:40,260 --> 00:08:45,350 thoughts and rob us of the joy and peace available in the present moment. 117 00:08:45,350 --> 00:08:50,690 Worry often arises from regrets about past actions or experiences or anxieties about 118 00:08:50,690 --> 00:08:52,839 what might happen in the future. 119 00:08:52,839 --> 00:08:58,010 By consciously redirecting our attention to the present, we can free ourselves from the 120 00:08:58,010 --> 00:09:00,000 grip of worry. 121 00:09:00,000 --> 00:09:05,160 In the modern-day world, we often find ourselves preoccupied with regrets from the past or 122 00:09:05,160 --> 00:09:06,630 concerns about the future. 123 00:09:06,630 --> 00:09:12,290 For example, we may constantly replay past mistakes, feeling regretful and worried about 124 00:09:12,290 --> 00:09:13,940 their consequences. 125 00:09:13,940 --> 00:09:20,600 Alternatively, we may worry about future uncertainties, such as career prospects, financial stability, 126 00:09:20,600 --> 00:09:22,890 or personal relationships. 127 00:09:22,890 --> 00:09:28,649 These worries can cause significant stress and hinder our ability to experience peace 128 00:09:28,649 --> 00:09:30,220 in the moment. 129 00:09:30,220 --> 00:09:36,140 Lao Tzu's teachings encourage us to acknowledge and learn from the past, but not to dwell 130 00:09:36,140 --> 00:09:37,640 on it. 131 00:09:37,640 --> 00:09:42,279 Instead of constantly replaying past mistakes or missed opportunities, we can choose to 132 00:09:42,279 --> 00:09:47,980 accept them as part of our journey and focus on the lessons they have taught us. 133 00:09:47,980 --> 00:09:55,160 By letting go of regrets, we release the burdens of the past and open ourselves up to the possibilities 134 00:09:55,160 --> 00:09:56,480 of the present. 135 00:09:56,480 --> 00:10:02,200 Moreover, when it comes to anxiety arising from concerns about the future, Lao Tzu encourages 136 00:10:02,200 --> 00:10:08,800 us to recognize the uncertainty of the future, which is beyond our complete control. 137 00:10:08,800 --> 00:10:14,519 Instead of incessantly fretting over potential outcomes, we can cultivate trust in the natural 138 00:10:14,519 --> 00:10:16,750 unfolding of life. 139 00:10:16,750 --> 00:10:23,510 This trust enables us to relinquish excessive planning and worry, and instead embrace the 140 00:10:23,510 --> 00:10:26,970 present moment with an open and curious mind. 141 00:10:26,970 --> 00:10:32,180 To cultivate a mindset that is attuned to the beauty of each moment, we can start by 142 00:10:32,180 --> 00:10:38,220 simply accepting things as they are right now, without judging or fighting against them. 143 00:10:38,220 --> 00:10:44,170 This means being okay with our feelings, challenges, and whatever is happening around us. 144 00:10:44,170 --> 00:10:49,100 When we do this, we can find inner peace and clarity. 145 00:10:49,100 --> 00:10:51,740 Mindfulness meditation can help with this. 146 00:10:51,740 --> 00:10:56,470 It's a way of focusing on the present moment, noticing our thoughts and feelings without 147 00:10:56,470 --> 00:10:57,920 judging them. 148 00:10:57,920 --> 00:11:02,550 This helps us become aware of worries and allows us to let them go. 149 00:11:02,550 --> 00:11:07,670 Often, these worries come from thinking about the past or future, not what's happening right 150 00:11:07,670 --> 00:11:08,670 now. 151 00:11:08,670 --> 00:11:13,930 So, by staying in the present, we can feel more at ease and enjoy the beauty of each 152 00:11:13,930 --> 00:11:15,170 moment. 153 00:11:15,170 --> 00:11:20,980 In our daily lives, we can also infuse mindfulness into various activities. 154 00:11:20,980 --> 00:11:25,970 Whether it's eating, walking, or engaging in conversations with others, we can consciously 155 00:11:25,970 --> 00:11:32,020 direct our attention to the sensations, thoughts, and emotions that emerge in the present moment. 156 00:11:32,020 --> 00:11:37,380 By doing so, we shift our focus away from worries about the past or future and anchor 157 00:11:37,380 --> 00:11:40,610 ourselves in the here and now. 158 00:11:40,610 --> 00:11:45,540 Additionally, cultivating gratitude practices can contribute to alleviating worry. 159 00:11:45,540 --> 00:11:49,731 By consciously appreciating the blessings and positive aspects of our lives in the present 160 00:11:49,731 --> 00:11:54,550 moment, we nurture a sense of contentment and reduce the inclination to worry about 161 00:11:54,550 --> 00:11:57,510 what we lack or what the future might hold. 162 00:11:57,510 --> 00:12:02,860 By incorporating these principles of mindfulness and gratitude into our lives, we can liberate 163 00:12:02,860 --> 00:12:09,300 ourselves from the cycle of worry and attain a greater sense of peace, present, contentment, 164 00:12:09,300 --> 00:12:12,899 and clarity in our daily lives. 165 00:12:12,899 --> 00:12:14,510 4. 166 00:12:14,510 --> 00:12:20,519 Simplify As we learn from Lao Tzu "Manifest plainness, 167 00:12:20,519 --> 00:12:26,330 Embrace simplicity, Reduce selfishness, Have few desires.” 168 00:12:26,330 --> 00:12:33,050 Lao Tzu's teachings emphasize the importance of simplifying and letting go of excess as 169 00:12:33,050 --> 00:12:35,500 a means to alleviate worries. 170 00:12:35,500 --> 00:12:40,870 Taoism teaches that the interconnectedness of life warns us against focusing on fear 171 00:12:40,870 --> 00:12:46,660 and greed, as it disrupts the balance within ourselves and affects those around us. 172 00:12:46,660 --> 00:12:51,959 When we desire something expensive, it often leads to stress and an increase in our efforts 173 00:12:51,959 --> 00:12:53,620 to acquire it. 174 00:12:53,620 --> 00:12:58,740 Once obtained, we face the pressure of maintaining it and the associated lifestyle, leading to 175 00:12:58,740 --> 00:13:02,020 further anxiety about potential loss. 176 00:13:02,020 --> 00:13:07,270 In contrast, embracing a moderate lifestyle cultivates simplicity. 177 00:13:07,270 --> 00:13:11,990 Simplicity involves understanding our true desires and, importantly, precisely what we 178 00:13:11,990 --> 00:13:14,080 do and don’t need. 179 00:13:14,080 --> 00:13:19,410 By living in moderation and recognizing that our needs are few, we can find relaxation 180 00:13:19,410 --> 00:13:22,230 and be fully present in the moment. 181 00:13:22,230 --> 00:13:26,889 By embracing a simpler and more minimalist approach to life, we can reduce the mental 182 00:13:26,889 --> 00:13:31,220 and physical burdens that often contribute to our anxieties. 183 00:13:31,220 --> 00:13:35,889 In the modern world, there are practical ways to put this moderation into practice. 184 00:13:35,889 --> 00:13:39,160 One approach is letting go of excess possessions. 185 00:13:39,160 --> 00:13:45,660 Lao Tzu encourages detachment from material possessions and the desire for constant acquisition. 186 00:13:45,660 --> 00:13:50,769 Instead of placing excessive value on external belongings, he suggests finding contentment 187 00:13:50,769 --> 00:13:53,779 in what is essential and necessary. 188 00:13:53,779 --> 00:13:59,420 By decluttering our physical space and letting go of excess possessions, we create an environment 189 00:13:59,420 --> 00:14:02,110 that is conducive to peace and clarity. 190 00:14:02,110 --> 00:14:07,420 For example, you can assess your belongings and donate or discard items that no longer 191 00:14:07,420 --> 00:14:10,550 serve a practical or meaningful purpose. 192 00:14:10,550 --> 00:14:15,350 By simplifying your living space, you reduce the mental load of maintaining and managing 193 00:14:15,350 --> 00:14:20,459 unnecessary possessions, which can contribute to a sense of lightness and reduce worries 194 00:14:20,459 --> 00:14:23,430 related to material attachments. 195 00:14:23,430 --> 00:14:28,490 According to Lao Tzu, another way to embrace simplicity is by streamlining and simplifying 196 00:14:28,490 --> 00:14:31,060 our daily routines and activities. 197 00:14:31,060 --> 00:14:36,110 Often, we fill our schedules with numerous tasks, commitments, and distractions, which 198 00:14:36,110 --> 00:14:38,890 can lead to overwhelm and worry. 199 00:14:38,890 --> 00:14:44,100 By intentionally streamlining our routines and focusing on essential tasks, we create 200 00:14:44,100 --> 00:14:48,000 space for rest, reflection, and rejuvenation. 201 00:14:48,000 --> 00:14:53,380 For instance, you can prioritize your most important responsibilities and let go of non-essential 202 00:14:53,380 --> 00:14:56,440 activities or time-consuming distractions. 203 00:14:56,440 --> 00:15:01,990 By simplifying your daily agenda, you allow yourself more time to relax, recharge, and 204 00:15:01,990 --> 00:15:08,690 engage in activities that bring you joy, thereby reducing worries related to a hectic and overwhelming 205 00:15:08,690 --> 00:15:09,960 lifestyle. 206 00:15:09,960 --> 00:15:14,750 By letting go of excess in various aspects of our lives, we can free ourselves from the 207 00:15:14,750 --> 00:15:22,420 burdens of attachment, desires, unnecessary complexities, ego, and past or future concerns. 208 00:15:22,420 --> 00:15:28,050 This practice of releasing what is excessive or unnecessary allows us to cultivate a more 209 00:15:28,050 --> 00:15:31,940 peaceful and balanced state of being. 210 00:15:31,940 --> 00:15:33,410 5. 211 00:15:33,410 --> 00:15:39,079 Let go of ego In our final quote from Lao Tzu for this video, 212 00:15:39,079 --> 00:15:44,360 he says “The ego is entranced by ... names and ideas... 213 00:15:44,360 --> 00:15:51,029 However names and concepts only block your perception of this Great Oneness”. 214 00:15:51,029 --> 00:15:56,240 Taoism believes that everything in the world is connected, like a beautiful tapestry. 215 00:15:56,240 --> 00:16:03,160 We are all linked to a vast universe, which is always changing, never staying the same. 216 00:16:03,160 --> 00:16:09,279 And Just like the universe, we also go through constant changes and transformations. 217 00:16:09,279 --> 00:16:15,420 This can make it hard to hold onto things and identify with them as they keep changing. 218 00:16:15,420 --> 00:16:21,350 When we focus too much on our ego, which is our sense of self and importance, we get attached 219 00:16:21,350 --> 00:16:27,420 to things like our jobs, hobbies, societal status, possessions, and how we look. 220 00:16:27,420 --> 00:16:30,069 But these things aren’t really who we are. 221 00:16:30,069 --> 00:16:36,540 They can change or even disappear, but that doesn't mean we lose ourselves. 222 00:16:36,540 --> 00:16:42,279 If we let our ego take over, we become worried about keeping things the way they are and 223 00:16:42,279 --> 00:16:44,630 we resist change. 224 00:16:44,630 --> 00:16:49,310 It's like holding onto a branch in a river and refusing to go with the flow. 225 00:16:49,310 --> 00:16:54,440 We end up missing out on the beautiful experiences that lie ahead. 226 00:16:54,440 --> 00:16:59,370 Taoism teaches us to see the beauty in change and impermanence. 227 00:16:59,370 --> 00:17:05,250 When we learn to let go of our ego's tight grip, we feel a sense of freedom and gain 228 00:17:05,250 --> 00:17:08,380 a deeper understanding of ourselves. 229 00:17:08,380 --> 00:17:16,459 It's not about losing something; instead, we open ourselves up to growth and transformation. 230 00:17:16,459 --> 00:17:23,530 Lao Tzu said that letting go of who we think we are allows us to become who we can be. 231 00:17:23,530 --> 00:17:29,610 It's a continuous journey of discovering ourselves, not a fixed destination. 232 00:17:29,610 --> 00:17:36,809 So, when we release our ego's hold, we start a journey of self-awareness. 233 00:17:36,809 --> 00:17:43,950 We learn to flow with the changes in life and find peace and joy in any situation. 234 00:17:43,950 --> 00:17:48,919 Instead of worrying about keeping everything the same, we embrace the rhythm of life and 235 00:17:48,919 --> 00:17:55,640 find contentment in being present and open to what comes our way. 236 00:17:55,640 --> 00:17:59,549 If you enjoyed this video, please make sure to check out our full philosophies for life 237 00:17:59,549 --> 00:18:05,020 playlist and for more videos to help you find success and happiness using beautiful philosophical 238 00:18:05,020 --> 00:18:07,700 wisdom, don’t forget to subscribe. 239 00:18:07,700 --> 00:18:10,519 Thanks so much for watching.