"Inexertion", "inaction", or "effortless action."
The concept of 'non-action' or 'effortless action', emphasizing the need to surrender to the natural flow of the universe and avoid unnecessary struggle or striving.
Taoism: The philosophy and religion that originated in ancient China and emphasizes living in harmony with the natural world through adherence to the Tao (the Way).
Wu Wei: The concept of non-action, or action without effort, in which one allows events to unfold naturally and without resistance.
Ying-yang: The interdependent, complementary forces of opposites that exist in the universe and within individuals, such as light and dark, male and female, and action and inaction.
Inner Harmony: The state of balance and tranquility that arises from aligning oneself with the Tao and living in accordance with its principles.
Mindfulness: An intentional, non-judgmental awareness of the present moment, which is an important aspect of Taoist practice.
Meditation: A variety of techniques used to quiet the mind and cultivate inner stillness, which is an essential component of Wu Wei.
Nature: The natural world, including plants, animals, and the elements, is revered and considered a source of wisdom and inspiration in Taoism.
Taoist Ethics: A set of principles that guide individuals to act with integrity, compassion, and respect for all beings.
Simplicity: The Taoist embrace of a simple and uncluttered life that allows for greater harmony and peace of mind.
Spiritual Practices: A variety of methods and rituals used to cultivate spiritual awareness and deepen one's connection to the Tao, including prayer, offerings, and mindfulness practices.
Natural Wu Wei: This is the most fundamental type of Wu Wei that involves aligning oneself with the Tao and allowing nature to take its course without interference.
Strategic Wu Wei: This type of Wu Wei involves taking strategic action, but without forcing the outcome. It is about adapting to situations and circumstances without attachment to a particular outcome.
Intentional Wu Wei: This involves setting an intention and then letting it go, allowing it to manifest naturally without trying to control the outcome.
Creative Wu Wei: This type of Wu Wei involves finding new ways to approach problems and situations that are in alignment with the Tao, rather than following traditional or habitual methods.
Non-Violent Wu Wei: This involves using non-violent means to achieve a goal, even in situations where violence might be seen as the most direct solution.
Spontaneous Wu Wei: This type of Wu Wei involves acting in the moment without preconceived ideas or plans, but rather responding to the situation as it arises.
Experienced Wu Wei: This is Wu Wei that has been developed over time through practice and experience, rather than being a natural inclination or talent.
During the Spring and Autumn period.
Confucianism and Taoism.
To refer to an ideal form of government, including the behavior of the emperor.
A state of personal harmony, free-flowing spontaneity, and laissez-faire.
A state of spirit or mind, in accordance with conventional morality.
As a "state of perfect knowledge of the reality of the situation, perfect efficaciousness, and the realization of a perfect economy of energy."
As a "set of ('transformed') dispositions (including physical bearing)... conforming with the normative order." "The concept of wu wei emerged during the Spring and Autumn period." "With early literary examples in Confucianism." "Wu wei is an important concept in Chinese statecraft and Taoism." "It was most commonly used to refer to an ideal form of government, including the behavior of the emperor." "Wu wei describes a state of personal harmony, free-flowing spontaneity, and laissez-faire." "In Confucianism, wu wei accords with conventional morality." "Sinologist Jean François Billeter defines wu wei as a 'state of perfect knowledge of the reality of the situation, perfect efficaciousness, and the realization of a perfect economy of energy.'" "Oxford's Edward Slingerland qualifies wu wei as a 'set of ('transformed') dispositions (including physical bearing)... conforming with the normative order'."