Practicing the Tao Te Ching: 81 Steps on the Way

Towler (Tales from the Tao), a teacher of Taoist meditation and qigong for over two decades, suggests that the Tao Te Ching is a spiritual practice guide for moving oneself toward oneness with the Tao. He guides readers through each of the 81 verses with a threefold approach. Towler translates the verses using clear, succinct phrasing without sacrificing poetics. His commentary is meant for contemplation, drawing influence from Chuang Tzu (another Taoist teacher), Ho Shang Gong (a more esoteric, alchemical interpreter), and his own teacher, Hua-Ching Ni. The practices involve paying close attention to the energies of the body while reflecting on one's current ways of living. Towler wishes to teach readers how to connect to Tao so that "you can understand and experience just who you really are and live a life in the world just doing what you naturally do." Towler is a gentle and warm teacher, successfully rendering the Tao Te Ching into everyday practical language and making its concepts available to a general audience. Those who are looking to become more spontaneous, open, and honest will find a worthy guide in Towler. (May)