The Daoist Foundation arose out of a deep interest in preserving and fostering authentic Daoist practice, culture and community. As Daoism shifts its borders from a regional indigenous Chinese religion to a worldwide contemplative practice and global religious path, the need for authentic resources and practices grows increasingly important. Towards this end, the Daoist Foundation nurtures and preserves Daoism and Daoist culture (dàojiào wénhuà 道教文化) through the transmission of time-honored practices and principles. We provide integrated instruction in meditation, textual study, and Yǎngshēng as well as community outreach and education for those interested in inter-religious dialogue and contemplative practices.

The Daoist Foundation offers simple yet comprehensive teachings in the Daoist tradition. We emphasize a “cultivation-and-refinement” (xiūliàn 修煉) model while integrating an apophatic, contemplative, mystical and theological (Dao-oriented) approach to practice. This includes a focus on the dual cultivation of innate nature and life-destiny (xìngmìng shuāngxiū 性命雙修) as a primary expression of Daoist practice. Although we have formal affiliation with the Huàshān 華山 (Mount Hua) lineage of Quánzhēn 全眞 (Complete Perfection) Daoism, we support a non-sectarian Daoist approach.

In keeping with a Daoist spirit, the Daoist Foundation promotes a supportive learning environment that encourages cultivation, relaxation, and understanding. Though our work is currently available via remote offerings, we are beginning to resume physical training sessions and in-person retreats through our previously established Daoist associations (dàohuì 道會) located in Chicago, IL and Olympia, WA. Please subscribe to the Daoist Foundation mailing list or check online for upcoming classes and offerings.

  • Daoist Practice & Principles

  • Yǎngshēng Classes

  • Meditation Instruction

  • Textual Study

  • Daoist Retreats & Workshops

  • Contemplative Inquiry & Mentorship

  • Seasonal Dietetics

  • Women's Cultivation

 

Foundational Practices

Standing Meditation: Daoist Quiet Standing (jìngzhàn 靜站), also referred to as "post standing" (zhànzhuāng 站樁). Includes Three Elixir Field Standing.

Yǎngshēng 養生 (Nourishing Life): Health and longevity practice. Time-tested Qìgōng 氣功 (Energy Work/Qi Exercise) sets that assist in healing and transformation.

Dǎoyǐn 導引 (Guided Stretching): Stretching, breath-work, and self-massage. 

Seasonal Dietetics & Medicinal Cooking: Energetics of medicinal foods and recipes based on the seasons.

Seated Meditation: Daoist Quiet Sitting (jìngzuò 靜坐), also known as "guarding the One" (shǒuyī 守一) and "sitting-in-forgetfulness" (zuòwàng 坐忘).

Scripture Study (jīngxué 經學): Contemplative reading, interpretation, and application of foundational Daoist scriptures and related compositions. Specific emphasis is placed on the nine core-texts contained in the Handbooks for Daoist Practice 修道手冊, with assumed familiarity with the Dàodé jīng 道德經 (Scripture on the Dao and Inner Power) and Zhuāngzǐ 莊子 (Book of Master Zhuang).

Lùndào 論道 (Discussing the Dao): Community Daoist talks exploring foundational texts, principles and views integral to Daoist practice-realization and ways of life.