China is a very ancient civilization that is rich and diverse in history, culture, arts, food, philosophy and religion. According to the American Historical Association, China has the longest continuous history of any country in the world—3,500 years of written history. Consequently, there is a plethora of material to discuss or write about. Join me today as I write about one of China’s gem- Xi’an ( Western Peace) or what was once known as Chang’an ( Eternal Peace). Xi’an is one of the four oldest cities in China and is known for being the starting point of the well-known Silk Road as well as being the home of the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. This emperor was known for many things but one interesting thing is his relentless search for the elixir of immortality. Interestingly enough, one of the local religions of this city is Taoism. Taoism is a philosophy and religion of having oneness with the Universe.
Taoist monks and practitioner have a profound understanding of the Universe, Nature and the Cosmic Energy of the Universe. They strive to live in harmony with the Universe and find means to achieve longevity or even immortality. Tao is known as the way or the path. However, it is much more profound than that and is sometimes described as the underlying force or energy in the Universe. Some even call it even Source, Cosmos or God. The Taoist Monk or practitioners strive for perfection of health and harmony through breath work, proper nutrition, drinking certain elixirs,practicing certain exercises and meditation.