“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them; that only creates
sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like”.
In Taoism, change is a constant aspect and as an inherent part of the natural cycle of life and the
universe, it should be embraced and accepted, rather than resisted. By embracing the natural
flow of the universe and adapting to change, one can experience greater calmness and happiness.
There are different types of change including: Natural Change, which refers to the changes
that occur in nature, such as the cycles of the seasons, the growth and decay of living things,
and the flow of rivers and streams. Personal Change, which refers to the
changes that occur within an individual, such as growth, aging, and the development
of personal beliefs and values. And; Social Change, which refers to changes
that occur in society and culture, such as shifts in political systems.
Taoism urges us to see changes in life as a natural part of the flow of the universe.
These changes are seen as inevitable and necessary for growth, evolution,
and the maintenance of balance in the world. To let nature take its course,
Taoism teaches that individuals should not interfere with the natural flow of
events and should allow things to change and evolve as they will.
However, most of us fight change for several reasons. Many of us fear the
uncertainty aspects of the change, and fear what the future will bring. We fight change because
we are emotionally attached to certain things, such as relationships, careers, or possessions.
Let's take not being able to move on after a break-up as an example in which
an individual continues to hold onto feelings of attachment, hurt, or anger, after the breakup,
towards their former partner. They may dwell on past memories and experiences,
and struggle to accept the fact that the relationship has ended. When individuals
resist change, they cling to the past and resist the natural flow of life. This attachment can lead
to feelings of anxiety, stress, and frustration, as individuals struggle to maintain control over
their environment. Since change is an inevitable part of life, resistance to it will only create
more suffering. By clinging to the past and trying to maintain control, individuals limit
their ability to adapt and grow, which can lead to stagnation and a lack of progress.
Taoism recognizes change can bring both positive and negative experiences and advises us to see
change as an opportunity for growth and transformation. Using the same example,
in order to move forward, it may be helpful for this individual to focus on self-care,
engage in activities that bring them joy, and seek support from friends and family and
be hopeful for a new relationship. By embracing change, individuals can develop a greater sense
of resilience and the ability to adapt to new situations. This can help them to bounce back
more quickly from challenges and setbacks. Embracing change instead of resisting it can
help reduce anxiety and stress associated with the unknown. When individuals approach change
with an open mind, they are less likely to feel overwhelmed and more capable of adapting to new
circumstances. In conclusion, embracing change can be beneficial for maintaining
calm and reducing stress. By approaching change with an open mind and a willingness to adapt,
individuals can develop greater resilience, creativity, and overall well-being.
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