Chinese language Quote by Alan Wilson Watts
““For Lao-tzu’s Taoism is the philosophical equivalent of jujitsu, or judo, which means the way of gentleness. Its basis is the principle of Tao, which may be translated the Way of Nature. But in the Chinese language the word which we render as “nature” has a special meaning not found in its English equivalent. Translated literally, it means “self-so.” For to the Chinese, nature is what works and moves by itself without having to be shoved about, wound up, or controlled by conscious effort. Your heart beats “self-so,” and, if you would give it half a chance, your mind can function “self-so”—though most of us are much too afraid of ourselves to try the experiment.””
About This Quote
Source Lecture: The Way of Nature, 1975
Taoism teaches that the natural way is effortless and self‑acting; aligning with this “self‑so” allows mind and heart to function without forced control.
In simple terms: Gentle flow beats forced effort.
Key Takeaway
Practice non‑resistance to discover inner ease.
Themes
philosophy
mindfulness
natural order
Mood
calm
inspired
Type
spiritual
educational
When to use this quote
- meditation
- creative work
- stress management
- decision making
- personal growth
Key Concepts
Taoism
self‑actualization
effortless action
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you let go of conscious control?
- What does “self‑so” feel like in daily life?
A Different Perspective
Over‑intellectualizing can hinder intuitive experience.
