Wu-wei: how to master calmness

Why sometimes non-interference in the natural course of events is the only right decision? The answer can be found in Wu-wei philosophy – contemplative passivity. This is a category of Chinese philosophy and culture, primarily Taoism, which expresses the principle of non-interference in the natural order of things following the Dao world law: “constantly implements non-action, so there is nothing that it does not fulfill”.

Edward Slingerland, a professor of Asian studies at the University of British Columbia and author of “Trying Not to Try: The Art and Science of Spontaneity”, gave the best explanation for this phenomenon. “Wu-wei is a state in which we can be very active and effective, while being in absolute relaxation and having a trust in the world around us,” the professor explains.

“People who have embraced the wu-wei philosophy believe that they are not doing anything special and at the same time can create brilliant works of art, confidently conduct business negotiations or even bring the whole world into a balanced order,” Slingerland comments in his “Try Not Try”.

Slingerland says, first of all, that you don’t need to overthink: “When I tell you:“ Do not think about the white elephant “, you will immediately think about it, because with words I will activate this concept in your brain. The same applies to the development of wu-wei – you will not learn to trust the natural course of events if you constantly hammer your brain with a list of important things. ”

Simply put, do not be nervous about the fact that you can not control. Use the proven technique of wu-wei philosophy and don’t worry about what you can’t influence. Give yourself time to deal with the problems. Wait, because, apparently, the Universe itself wants to tell you that a different plan has been prepared for you and that you don’t need to break not your own walls.