The Daoist Foundation was established out of a profound commitment to preserving and promoting authentic Daoist practice, culture, and community. As Daoism transitions from being a regionally indigenous Chinese tradition to a globally recognized contemplative practice and spiritual path, the demand for genuine resources and teachings becomes increasingly vital. In response to this need, the Daoist Foundation is dedicated to nurturing and safeguarding Daoist culture (道教文化 dàojiào wénhuà) by transmitting time-honored principles and practices.

Through our programs, we offer integrated instruction in meditation, textual study, and Yǎngshēng (養生, "Nourishing Life"), while also fostering community outreach and inter-religious dialogue. Our approach is designed to support those who seek deeper engagement with contemplative practices and the Daoist way of life.

Our Approach: Cultivation and Refinement

The Daoist Foundation provides accessible yet comprehensive teachings within the Daoist tradition, emphasizing the "cultivation-and-refinement" (修煉 xiūliàn) model. This approach integrates apophatic (beyond-conceptual), contemplative, mystical, and theological elements, aligning with a Dao-oriented perspective on practice. A central focus of our teachings is the dual cultivation of innate nature and life-destiny (性命雙修 xìngmìng shuāngxiū), regarded as a core expression of Daoist realization.

While we maintain a formal connection to the Huàshān 華山 (Mount Hua) lineage of Quánzhēn 全眞 (Complete Perfection) Daoism, our foundation supports a non-sectarian approach, embracing wisdom from multiple Daoist traditions to provide a well-rounded and inclusive path for practitioners.

A Supportive Learning Environment

True to the Daoist spirit, we strive to cultivate an environment that encourages balance, relaxation, and natural growth in practice. At present, our offerings are primarily conducted remotely, allowing for greater accessibility. However, we are in the process of resuming in-person training sessions and retreats through our affiliated Daoist associations (道會 dàohuì) in Chicago, IL, and Olympia, WA.

To stay informed about upcoming classes and events, we encourage you to subscribe to the Daoist Foundation mailing list or visit our website for regular updates.

Daoist Practices & Teachings

Core Offerings

• Yǎngshēng (養生) Classes – Nourishing Life Practices

• Meditation Instruction – Stillness & Breath Cultivation

• Textual Study – Daoist Scriptures & Classical Texts

• Daoist Retreats & Workshops – Immersive Learning Experiences

• Contemplative Inquiry & Mentorship – Personalized Guidance

• Seasonal Dietetics – Energetic Alignment with Nature

• Women’s Cultivation – Practices for Balance & Harmony

Foundational Practices

Standing Meditation

• Daoist Quiet Standing (靜站 jìngzhàn) – Also known as "post standing" (站樁 zhànzhuāng), this practice includes Three Elixir Field Standing, supporting energy cultivation and inner stillness.

Yǎngshēng (養生, Nourishing Life)

• Time-tested Qìgōng (氣功, Energy Work) sets designed for health, longevity, and internal transformation.

Dǎoyǐn (導引, Guided Stretching)

• A system of stretching, breath-work, and self-massage to harmonize body and energy flow.

Seasonal Dietetics & Medicinal Cooking

• Understanding the energetics of medicinal foods and preparing recipes aligned with seasonal rhythms to promote health and balance.

Seated Meditation

• Daoist Quiet Sitting (靜坐 jìngzuò) – Encompasses practices such as "guarding the One" (守一 shǒuyī) and "sitting-in-forgetfulness" (坐忘 zuòwàng) to refine awareness and merge with the Dao.

Scripture Study (經學 jīngxué)

• Contemplative reading and interpretation of core Daoist texts, including:

  • The Dàodé jīng (道德經, Dao and Inner Power)

  • The Zhuāngzǐ (莊子, Book of Master Zhuang)

  • The Handbooks for Daoist Practice (修道手冊 Xiūdào Shǒucè), which contain nine foundational scriptures.

Lùndào (論道, Discussing the Dao)

• Community Daoist discussions exploring key principles, texts, and ways of life that support realization and alignment with the Dao.

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Join Us on the Path of Dao

At the Daoist Foundation, we welcome all sincere seekers who wish to explore and embody the wisdom of Daoism. Whether through meditation, textual study, energy cultivation, or seasonal living, we are dedicated to offering authentic teachings and fostering a community of practice.

For more information on our classes, retreats, and study programs, please visit our website or subscribe to our mailing list. We look forward to walking the path of Dao together.