Gentle Body Movement & Wisdom from the Tao Te Ching

Verse 12

Photo crdts: Misa S., Pexeles

The Tao Te Ching, attributed to the ancient Chinese sage Lao Tzu, is a foundational text of Taoism that offers timeless wisdom on living in harmony with the natural order of the universe. Comprised of 81 brief verses, it explores the concept of the Tao (the Way) – an all-encompassing force that flows through everything – and Te (Virtue), the expression of living in accordance with this natural flow. With its poetic, paradoxical language, the Tao Te Ching invites readers to embrace simplicity, humility, and balance, guiding them towards inner peace and profound understanding.

Verse 12

Colors blind the eye.
Sounds deafen the ear.
Flavors numb the taste.
Thoughts weaken the mind.
Desires wither the heart.

The Sage observes the world
but trusts his inner vision.
He allows things to come and go.
His heart is as open as the sky.

Verse 12 of the Tao Te Ching highlights the concept of sensory overload and the importance of inner awareness. The first lines describe how excessive stimulation—vivid colors, loud sounds, strong flavors, constant thoughts, and intense desires—can overwhelm and dull our senses, leading to confusion and disconnection.

In contrast, the Sage (a wise, self-aware individual) embodies balance and clarity. Rather than being consumed by external experiences, the Sage maintains a calm, open heart and trusts their inner vision—an intuitive, clear understanding that is not clouded by external distractions. By allowing experiences to come and go without attachment, the Sage remains at peace, like the vast, open sky.

This verse encourages simplicity, mindful presence, and cultivating an inner refuge amid life's chaos.

During this short session, we’ll focus on the last four lines:

The Sage observes the world
but trusts his (or her) inner vision.
He (or She) allows things to come and go.
His (or Her) heart is as open as the sky.

We’ll begin with a short guided meditation, inviting a sense of stillness and presence. From there, we transition into gentle standing poses, focusing on lengthening the spine and easing tension in your muscles. The sequence includes side lunge (Skandasana) for hip mobility, followed by a series of poses on the mat to support spinal flexibility and nurture your nervous system. Throughout the practice, you’ll hear lines from Verse 12 of the Tao Te Ching, offering timeless wisdom to guide your movements and mindset. This gentle flow is perfect for grounding, releasing stress, and reconnecting with yourself. Whether you're seeking a mindful pause in your day or a soothing practice to unwind, this session offers a harmonious blend of movement and ancient wisdom. Join me and explore the Tao’s teachings in motion.