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** Living Tao: Timeless Principles for Everyday Enlightenment - by Lee, Ilchi.

Living Tao: Timeless Principles for Everyday Enlightenment - Kindle edition by Lee, Ilchi. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.





Living Tao: Timeless Principles for Everyday Enlightenment Kindle Edition
by Ilchi Lee (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 181 ratings
4.5 on Goodreads
169 ratings
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Tao has been built into the foundation of East Asian culture for millennia, and many books have been written to explain it. But Tao cannot fully be explained in words; it can only felt and experienced. Tao is something you live, day by day, moment by moment. It's the omnipresent oneness beyond ephemeral phenomena that expresses itself in everything.

New York Times bestselling author Ilchi Lee, an enlightened Tao master from South Korea, has laid out a path to living Tao every day. Along this path, he guides you to an understanding of the meaning of birth, death, and everything in between, building a foundation for living a complete and whole life.

Rather than being a review or interpretation of ancient texts, such as the Tao Te Ching, Living Tao draws from the Korean practice of Sundo, an ancient tradition of mind-body training, as well as Lee's own life experience.

With the tangible yet universal principles in Living Tao, Ilchi Lee makes this profound topic simple and accessible. This book has an unparalleled depth in its simplicity that anyone can absorb and immediately apply.

* 2015 INDIEFAB Book of the Year Award Winner, Bronze, Body, Mind & Spirit
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303 pages
April 7, 2018
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Editorial Reviews

About the Author
ILCHI LEE has authored 37 books including the New York Times bestseller, The Call of Sedona: Journey of the Heart, as well as Change: Realizing Your Greatest Potential and Brain Wave Vibration: Getting Back into the Rhythm of a Happy, Healthy Life. He is a dedicated humanitarian who founded the International Brain Education Association and works with the United Nations and other organizations for a peaceful, sustainable world. He also founded the University of Brain Education, the Global Cyber University, and the natural healing practices of Dahn Yoga and Brain Education. --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.
Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.
Due to the influence of Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching, many people think that the Tao belongs to China. However, in most ancient East Asian countries, the Tao was an important cultural, spiritual tradition, and a part of life. Although it's clear that the word, Tao, is from an Eastern language, in fact, the Tao does not belong to the East alone. Even before the word existed, the Tao is that something that has always existed fully, transcending the limitations of space and time comprehensible to humans.

I have little interest in understanding the Tao on a conceptual and intellectual level. For the Tao is not to be found in words. My interest is in how to feel and become one with the Tao. We must guard against the Tao remaining as no more than a superficial idea, as a spiritual accessory, failing to become a part of our lives.

The purpose of this book is not to provide an emergency prescription or cure-all to solve an in an instant all of your problems. The purpose of this book is to methodically teach you a path to the Tao through 12 steps, each of which is a chapter, and to inspire you with a passion for living a life of oneness with the Tao.

The path to Tao introduced in this book is rooted in my personal experience and in Sundo, which is Korea's own millennia-old tradition of mind-body training. This Sundo existed before Taoism and Buddhism were prevalent, and, although it influenced and was influenced by other religions and spiritual traditions, it developed very independently.

The core philosophy of Sundo is found in complete oneness with the Tao, and this is expressed as follows in the Chun Bu Kyung, which is an ancient Korean scripture. . . .

As the Chun Bu Kyung says, all humans have an inner longing to know the Tao. Human bodies also contain a complete Tao sense and system through which they can feel and see the Tao. You can gradually grow closer to the Tao by ceaselessly awakening that sense and working to live a Tao-centered life. --This text refers to an alternate kindle_edition edition.

Product details


From the United States
Joseph William Marek
5.0 out of 5 stars Journey of Self-Discipline

Reviewed in the United States on March 24, 2021
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Every seeker should expose themselves to the Tao sooner or later. Sooner is better than later. There is no time like the present. I was afraid I was not totally absorbing this, but apparently I was subconsciously. 
I found things I was thinking and things I was saying were … different! 
I would hope – as you read this book (and I do recommend it) – you come to new realizations as to your place in the Universe. 
Your Tao is, as if you hadn’t guessed by now, your divine nature. 
He discusses the energy principle of oriental medicine. 
He also says all principles have the characteristics of reflection, refinement and realization. 
He further states that we have three bodies: a physical body, an energy body and a spiritual body. 
He then takes a very noncommittal attitude about reincarnation. 
He writes “It is not enough to have a few masters or gurus who have awakened to Tao consciousness; everyone must now become an enlightened master.” 
He proceeds with defining his terms: “Sooshin (One must first cultivate one’s body and mind), Jega (then one can manage one’s family), Chigook (contribute to one’s organization or nation), and Pyungchunha (and bring peace to the world). 

Spurred on by this book, I envisioned my essential Self or Soul. 
What I saw I choose to keep secret. 
Reading the final chapter was a revelation. 
It gave a name to everything I felt. 
It also – if I may say so – gave a further explanation to everything I felt. 
Things quite suddenly fell into place. 
I do want to recommend this book. Too many times hard-edged Ceremonial Magicians don’t think they need anything this touchy-feely. Well, they’re wrong.

4 people found this helpful
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John
5.0 out of 5 stars Messages to awaken our consciousness
Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2016
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I highly recommend "Living Tao". Why? Because this book contains many messages that ring true. One that stands out to me is that we all share a precious living resource, Earth. When our collective consciousness rises and we recognize this fact, then the paradigm shifts and we awaken with eyes that see a new world based on harmony of all humanity and the Earth. Mr. Lee calls this Tao Consciousness. With this consciousness, conflicts can be resolved more easily in an "Age of the Global Village". A world view based on love of family, country, humanity and Earth. The technology exists today to make this possible, but now our consciousness needs to catch up.
13 people found this helpful
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Al Stone
2.0 out of 5 stars The Five Star Reviews Are Suspect.

Reviewed in the United States on May 8, 2016
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The reviews on this book are outstanding. However, after thirty-five pages of rather dull reading and less than profound thoughts, I skimmed the text. It never got better. 
Some (typical) concepts presented are:
“The Tao brings us healthier, happier life.” 
“When you’re angry…go for a walk.” 
“Another essential element of life is the air you breathe.” 
“What is your life’s purpose? You’ll obtain the answer only when you search for it earnestly and with all your heart.” 
“Generally, human beings have three kinds of life, physical, social, spiritual.”

 If these ideas are revelations to you, then you’ll likely enjoy this volume. 
For me, it was simplistic, uninteresting, uninspiring and disappointing. 

As for the glowing testimonials, they appear skewed. 
The vast majority of the reviewers had reviewed only this book or books by Ilchi Lee and thus it would seem the perspective is biased.

80 people found this helpful

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Kindle Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Heart Opening
Reviewed in the United States on September 11, 2016
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I have read this book more than once. I have just finished it again. Without trying, as I read the book, I feel lighter and brighter and more hopeful. My heart is open and full. Living Tao is truly alive with the pure energy of the Tao.
12 people found this helpful
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schick
5.0 out of 5 stars It is a great guide book for creating wise life
Reviewed in the United States on January 29, 2018
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This book, filled with the language of Tao, is so full of truth that I couldn't help drawing lines on every page.
It is a great guide book for creating wise life!
7 people found this helpful
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Kcindyindle Customer
3.0 out of 5 stars Faith
Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2020
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Inspiration and curiosity
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medicine woman
5.0 out of 5 stars SAA
Reviewed in the United States on December 16, 2017
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I am very happy to see more detail of the actual course explained, i.e. completion of he soul.
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Maureen Godfrey
5.0 out of 5 stars A new perspective on what I thought was normal
Reviewed in the United States on August 21, 2017
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Ancient wisdoms explained in everyday terms. It helped me see my life with a whole new perspective.
2 people found this helpful
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dokkristen
5.0 out of 5 stars Great book. It brings the Tao into everyday life ...
Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2018
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Great book. It brings the Tao into everyday life with great ease.
4 people found this helpful
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Meri Lee
5.0 out of 5 stars Helps clear my mind
Reviewed in the United States on June 11, 2018
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Good advice for everyone, not just “hugging-feels” zen vegans
7 people found this helpful
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From the United States
Robert Bekesz
5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
Reviewed in the United States on May 24, 2018
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Outstanding on getting lifes priorities right
7 people found this helpful
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mario
5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars
Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2018
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One of my favorite books.
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Jim
5.0 out of 5 stars The Best Book Ever , Thank You Ilchi Lee for Everything ☯
Reviewed in the United States on May 31, 2016
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This Book is my Road Map to Live a life with Gratitude for All
5 people found this helpful
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Brenda Cole
5.0 out of 5 stars So far awesome..
Reviewed in the United States on February 9, 2016
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Still reading! So far awesome...
2 people found this helpful
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Soulseeker2021
1.0 out of 5 stars Lao Tzu never taught this
Reviewed in the United States on October 20, 2018
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Religion of Taoism very different from philosophy of Lao Tzu
14 people found this helpful
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a seeker
4.0 out of 5 stars This book brilliantly showed me the way
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
Finally, I have a clear dream to achieve through my life. Throughout my life I always knew that I wanted to live well yet, I did not know how or the way to live my life well. This book brilliantly showed me the way. I awakened that my life is the process of becoming one with the Tao and now I have a sincere mind to become one with Tao. The author explained that when the reader cultivates a sincere mind to become one with Tao, that the book has accomplished its role. That’s right, from now it’s up to me. I will keep this book beside me always as an invaluable guide. I will do my best to actualize the contents of this book in my life. From here on, what I need is focus plus action! Let’s go!
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Alan
4.0 out of 5 stars It seems like the kind of book that you can pick up ...
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
I've been reading Living Tao by Ilchi Lee. I have to say that it is so inspiring.
It is helpful for me to understand some things that I have been aware of in a much clearer way. It is also filled with so much food for thought.
I haven't finished reading this book yet, but I know that I will have to read it again to get some of the more deeper meaning of everything. It seems like the kind of book that you can pick up and open it to any page and read as your meditation for the day.
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a seeker
5.0 out of 5 stars The Manual of Life Everyone Should Read
Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2016
The fact is, most of the other books I've read on the Tao have made the concept seem more complicated and ambiguous. Ilchi Lee's book, Living Tao, was different. In it, he lucidly describes the Tao as the life energy of the cosmos, which he bases on a state of energy and consciousness he experienced and realized himself. What's more amazing is that he doesn't end in just describing the Tao, but also presents concrete principles and methods of energy training for feeling and experiencing it directly.
The book doesn't end here. Ilchi Lee describes the human process, from physical birth to the growth of the soul and death, by linking it with the body's chakra energy system. You get the feeling that he has perfectly solved the puzzle of the cosmic mystery etched in the human body. As we follow his concrete, step-by-step guidance, which brings a transformation of perception, taking us from a brief, finite life to an infinite life full of meaning, we can embrace all the suffering and irony, all the happiness and unhappiness in our lives. And the world of the Tao Lee presents in the final chapter is like a compass pointing us in the direction we, who are suffering the harmful effects of material civilization, should ultimately go.
Who am I? What am I living for? I want to recommend this book to everyone who is rushing toward the final destination of life, asking these questions but never finding clear answers. I think Living Tao is a manual for life that should be essential reading for everyone born in the world. It makes you wonder and imagine how happy and harmonious the world might be if many people truly experience such a transformation of consciousness.
3 people found this helpful
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Hyo won Seo
4.0 out of 5 stars I like this book
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
I like this book. I am read book middle of day. It make me calm, clear mind and give me wisdom when I have facing problem.
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Sue Morinaga
5.0 out of 5 stars A Classic!
Reviewed in the United States on January 13, 2016
If you have any interests in this book, in something called Enlightenment, in Tao, then you’ve had questions about yourself that begged answers as long as you can remember. Perhaps you’ve been searching and seeking the real purpose of your life and hoping that one day you can finally and strongly say with conviction; “Yes! I now know my purpose in life!”
The answers to your questions have been eluding you but those questions often enter your mind when you start doubting yourself and wonder who you really are and why you’re here on earth. Ilchi Lee, a New York Times Bestselling Author, and a Tao master, takes you step by step in his book, Living Tao, thru the process of discovering the answers to your questions.
In Living Tao the author becomes your teacher or guide. He takes you by the hand and introduces you to complex and profound principles and explains them with simplicity and every day examples that anyone can relate to. Then you wonder why you haven’t been able to answer your own questions if the answers are that simple? That is why we need a Tao master to help us open up the doors in our mind to show us the way to new understandings of ourselves.
Living Tao is also a resource book that you will use through out your lifetime and hand it down because it is a classic!
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Amazon Customer
4.0 out of 5 stars I really love this book
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
I really love this book.Tao is always with me,in the mainfestation of the Tao in this physical from and energetic system.
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thermalcupid
4.0 out of 5 stars this was by far the most enjoyable of all his ...
Reviewed in the United States on January 26, 2016
this was by far the most enjoyable of all his books ive read. at times hard to put down.
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EUN MI LEE
5.0 out of 5 stars I feel thankful because this book has helped present easy to understand guidance for such seemingly lofty spiritual concepts ...
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
As human beings live their life, inevitably we will come a time of darkness or wandering, where we are not certain of where we are supposed to go. This book is the light for all people in darkness.


I feel thankful because this book has helped present easy to understand guidance for such seemingly lofty spiritual concepts as death, past lives, reincarnation and karma. I am also thankful that this book gives a concise and powerful reasoning and encouragement for the serious study of principles and practice for our growth. This book even gives the concept of the end of the world and living eternally, giving us the concept of eternity and the completion of the soul.


What really impressed me was how this book presents an expansive perspective on our story as human beings. I felt huge compassion and love, because this book explained our journey through the ages of theism,


humanism and “shin in hap il”. This book presents the Tao through the context of Brain Education which I find amazing. I can feel the author’s radiating compassion and sincere dream for a world of “Tao”. I will read this book several times to truly make it’s lessons and words mine, through my daily training and sincerity.
2 people found this helpful
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars This is my Soul Book!
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
I was curious about what “Tao” is and how I can utilize Tao in my daily life before I found the book “Living Tao” by Ilchi Lee. While I was reading this book, slowly and deeply, I realized that the Tao is always with me, in me and around me, and that I am the manifestation of the Tao in this physical form and energetic system. Now I think I am able to open the eyes of Tao beyond my physical eyes, which means that I try to see and feel Oneness from everything around me, and I feel easier about everything, even about what I didn’t like before. It is not easy to describe what I felt and experienced through reading this book, it seems like the book “Living Tao” is alive in me, talking to me, and suggesting to me what I have really needed in my life. This book is a teacher and guide for my spiritual journey toward growth and completion of my soul. Yes, this is a Soul Book. Thank you Ilchi Lee for your wonderful words and guidance for all of us.
5 people found this helpful
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Ulrike
5.0 out of 5 stars Until now It seems like knowing the Tao was directly associated with years and ...
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
Hand book for Enlightened Living.
- Revealing the most fundamental and profound truth and how to apply it to every day life –
Many people have the desire to know the Tao, the ultimate truth and the way to enlightenment. Just as so many others, I also have the thirst to know the Tao. Reading the book ‘Living Tao” brought me so much closer to that truth. Until now It seems like knowing the Tao was directly associated with years and years of ascetic practice in the mountains, far away from human reality. This book took away the mysticism that has surrounded the concept of Tao for so long. It explains the Tao in a very comprehensible way and applies it to all aspects of human life. It is a book that provides deep insights and guidelines on how to not only know the Tao but make it part of our everyday life. I believe that this book will help countless people to awaken to the true values of life and through that help cause a big shift in human consciousness and everyday life as it is lived in our modern times, which is so desperately needed.
One person found this helpful
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hyojin im
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Wisdoms in Tao Living book This book ‘Living Tao’ ...
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
Great Wisdoms in Tao Living book
This book ‘Living Tao’ is a great teacher!!! If you are looking for great wisdom and meaning in your life, this book ‘Living Tao’ will guide you. I have heard about Tao or Taoism many times but I did not know where to find out more. This book makes it easy to understand about Tao. Earlier in my life I had been asking myself "Who I am?" Or "What is the purpose of my life?" However, as my life got busier I forgot about these questions. While I was reading this book, these questions were reawakened in me again. I realized all along I was still asking these questions deep inside. I am so glad that I found this book ‘Living Tao’. I as I read I took the time to look back on my life and think about myself deeply. I realized thru this book ‘Living Tao’ that everything is within me and all environments exist for my growth and help me to find the answers about life. Thank you Ilchi Lee for your great wisdoms and guidance for all of us.
One person found this helpful
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K. Root
5.0 out of 5 stars Living Tao goes beyond an intellectual understanding...
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
Questions about the meaning of life have been in my mind off and on ever since I was a child when my grandmother passed away and I wondered "How can that be?" and "Where did she go?" Although this book does not attempt to answer that initial question it addresses other questions that began at that time for me. "Who am I?" "What is important in life?" and "How can I really be satisfied with myself?" This book Living Tao offers simple principles in a very clear way. However unlike other books I have read it also offers to take you out of just the realm of understanding. It offers experiential exercises to helped me to understand the principles through my life and through my physical sense. If you want to incorporate more harmony within yourself, your relationships and with nature I highly recommend this book. I hope you enjoy. Now that I have read it once, I like to pick it up and read any chapter and have a deeper insight each time.
3 people found this helpful
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carole liss
5.0 out of 5 stars Practical and easy to understand
Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2016
I've read many books about the Tao and it has been hard to translate into my everyday life, but this book Living Tao is easy to understand and apply to life's challenges and understand the suffering that I have experienced. This book has allowed me to accept and even be grateful for my challenges and realize this is part of growth.
The author discusses life and death is a way that is almost comforting and not something to be fearful or sad, but to know it is a part of life . lchi Lee, also talks about living in the moment, this is so hard to do, but I see the importance of being in the present for healthy living instead of agonizing about what may happen in the future or regretting what has happened in the past.
What ever is going on in my life, I just pick up this book and open it up randomly, there is my answer for today. This is a great resource book to keep you in a mindful state.
One person found this helpful
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Anna-Lisa Drew
5.0 out of 5 stars A practical and inspiring book for personal growth.
Reviewed in the United States on January 13, 2016
Reading this book feels like a homecoming for me. The chapters cover every aspect of living from a Taoist perspective from money and relationships to the growth of your soul. I find myself lingering over chapters to soak up every word and meaning from them. The opening brought tears to my eyes it was so touching. I really felt the heart of the author through these pages and it awakens a longing in my own heart to live as one with the Tao. I urge anyone who is interested in growing their self from a caterpillar to a butterfly to read this book. I feel like I am flying with the realisations, both beautiful and challenging, that it brings. I am so grateful to have read this book.
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11 people found this helpful
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Susan Lee
5.0 out of 5 stars Living Tao for yourself and everyone around you
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
I appreciate Ilchi Lee's ability to explain a deeply philosophical and spiritual subject in plain language. He seeks to help people see beyond their materialistic desires to shift to a spiritual life that benefits others as a way to health, happiness and peace. Through studying principles of nature, practicing mind-body techniques, and making choices how we live that not only benefit ourselves, but others, we are able to feel and have a life worth living. Ilchi Lee even helps the reader to reflect on their preconceptions about life, death and love. This book is not one to just be read for knowledge, but to experience, for that is the way of Tao. I will definitely read this book again and again to help me become a better human being and a person of character that lives to benefit others and complete the growth of my soul. Ilchi Lee, thank you for sharing your wisdom.
3 people found this helpful
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Brian Marshall
5.0 out of 5 stars Great
Reviewed in the United States on February 20, 2020
Great info
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars The inspiration for my journey
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
I learned how to incorporate the Tao into my life through this book.
It gave me an understanding of birth, death, and everything in between.
“One day, we were given life as a gift... We can choose who we are and what the purpose of our lives is... We live life in a finite body, but it is wonderful and beautiful that we can choose for ourselves how we will use that life.”
Actually this was the best guide for me. I truly felt the real value of my life including my body and soul. Eventually I will leave this body and this physical world. Later, when I am old and facing death, I want to be able to say that I made my life and world beautiful. I want to be able to write a poem and sing a song like he said at the end of this book. And I want everybody on this earth to know that we are one.
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Maki P
5.0 out of 5 stars Do you love your life?
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
This is the first book I read that helped me understand what a complete or whole life is. It is not just about taking care of myself and my family, but realizing the oneness of all things and from that the desire and will to do good for the whole comes out naturally. When each person recognizes that, the world we live in will be a better place where each person can be healthy, happy and peaceful. The principles discussed in this book are indeed timeless. The book addresses all the issues of what we face in life and how to manage them. It is a book of how to live your life so that it is fulfilling and exciting and showing respect to all living things and nature. I found every word comforting and purifying. I know I am really going home when the time comes.
2 people found this helpful
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Arthur
5.0 out of 5 stars One of my top 5 favorite books
Reviewed in the United States on November 15, 2019
Profoundly simple and practical wisdom that can be applied to daily life.
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Lily D
5.0 out of 5 stars A practical enlightening guide to make sense of the world!
Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2016
This book is one of the first books I have read that contains such deep enlightening concepts, and it's explained and presented in a way that can be made sense of even in every day living. It is also inspiring, and refreshing; reading each concept I feel it's like a veil has been lifted in many areas of the human experience, and MY human experience in particular. It's incredible how such ancient truths are presented here in relation relevant to the modern world and explained in such friendly, engaging, and easy to understand manner. I thought the way the information and each chapter flows is gradual, and well thought of, I felt guided and well prepared to understand the next concept from beginning to the end. This is definitively a great book anyone on a quest for enlightenment should read!
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Wheeln4life
5.0 out of 5 stars Why am I living?
Reviewed in the United States on January 15, 2016
The Living Tao makes enlightenment come alive.
Recovering our True Nature is the solution to every global problem we face as a humanity. This book holds timeless wisdom that anyone can begin to utilize and share with others. The heart that prays for the happiness and well-being of all things and all people will revive and the Earth citizen value will become the new standard. Humans can recover and create this enlightened value within our mainstream society. Ilchi Lee is so bold and sincere. He makes it easy to understand our true nature for a divine earth humanity. If you could unite people to create Peace on Earth would you do it? I believe this is the book for the ages to awaken us on how to love humanity and love the earth.
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John T
5.0 out of 5 stars Practical and Authentic Tao
Reviewed in the United States on January 25, 2016
Ilchi Lee's Living Tao is a very clear and practical guide for living Tao principles and for actualizing these principles into one's life. For many years I have enjoyed reading Eastern literature, especially Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, and while I enjoy them on a literary level, these books do not deeply impact my life in the same way as Living Tao.


And for contemporary and beautiful verse, I recommend Ilchi Lee's Calligraphic Meditations book. For the reader who might be looking for practical, authentic ways to improve their life--or to understand their life more deeply--I suggest Living Tao. This book is well-written, easy to understand and can be applied immediately into one's life. Check it out!
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars What agreat book!
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
I lost track of all time while reading this book. This book helped me awaken my consciousness clearly while making my heart pound. Feeling joy and gratefulness, I felt as if I had received a precious opportunity to read the 'Living Tao'. I realize that it is not so easy for me to live as the book's story had described, but I could understand and connect with its power and inspirations, pointing towards a life lived with of abundance and peace through its principles. It truly touched my soul.
This book gives us simple and easy guidelines showing us the living 'Tao' through its parables and universal examples. Of course we all experience our challenges, but I realize I can create my destiny.
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Morgan T
5.0 out of 5 stars Guiding Principles
Reviewed in the United States on December 27, 2017
Even if you're not a believer in all things spiritual teachings, I found this book offered positive principles to live by no matter your beliefs. Bringing change to your life, brining good to others, building relationships and finding yourself - all great traits to try and live by every day.
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SUN forever
5.0 out of 5 stars I really believe this book can help you live your/our 'Tao' to help ourselves and society and create a better world. Enjoy it
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
I have read lots of Tao books and spiritual books. All helped me to be who I am now. Finally, this book "Living Tao" is summarizing everything: when I understand Tao, then what can I do? How can I live Tao? How can I know if I am living Tao in my life? What can 'Living Tao' do in reality? Are Living Tao and Living life not two different things? When I live Tao, how can it help others and society? And so on. This book shows that 'Tao' is not '-ism' or 'theory'. It is who we truly are. I really believe this book can help you live your/our 'Tao' to help ourselves and society and create a better world. Enjoy it!
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cat Sawai
5.0 out of 5 stars Where has this been all my life?
Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2016
Every page of this book contains wonderful messages of how to live your best life. I felt it was written just for me! I was happily surprised at the depth of its content. I found the answers to the many serious questions I have asked myself throughout my lifetime. My favorite chapter is: The Five Character Traits. I have always wondered how to free my soul and this chapter really hit home for me. This is truly a book of living and I am grateful to the author Ilchi Lee for sharing his enlightened wisdom! I truly believe this book will guide me to change the way I live life. 5 STARS - A MUST READ!
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Fatima Bustos-Choy, PhD
5.0 out of 5 stars happier and more peaceful life this 2016 and beyond
Reviewed in the United States on January 20, 2016
Living Tao, Timeless Principles for Everyday Enlightenment by Ilchi Lee has become my new Guide to living a healthier, happier and more peaceful life this 2016 and beyond. I've read a number of books on the Tao over the years, having studied with a number of spiritual teachers. The various Tao books have been enlightening but have not always been applicable to my daily life. Living Tao by Ilchi Lee is not only written beautifully, but it is also quite practical - mainly because of its focus - ENERGY. Tao at its most fundamental level is ENERGY and this perspective is most helpful to me, because I work with energy. The insights gained I use now in my daily life.
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sunshine
5.0 out of 5 stars Living Tao by Ilchi Lee Gives you the principles for living life to its fullest
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
In my high school senior year book, it was suggested we write an inspirational message. My inspirational message was on character. When I read the chapter on character from the Living Tao by Ilchi Lee, it have me a deeper understanding of what character really means and how to develop. He explains by examples, the five fundamental traits essential to develop a strong character.. The five are honesty, sincerity, responsibility, courtesy and faithfulness. His simplicity in his communication creates an easy passage way to take action in developing your character so that you can realize your full potential in living the Tao. This book is a must read if want to be a master of your life.
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Liza Flatley
5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome Book
Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2018
Great book
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sean geiger
5.0 out of 5 stars Every book he writes gets better and better
Reviewed in the United States on December 17, 2015
Ilchi Lee is so inspirational. Every book he writes gets better and better. Thanks to his teaching in this book and others I have found the meaning in my life I have been searching for for over 30 years. He shows us ways to improve your physical, spiritual, and emotional lives. My life now has meaning and direction. If you are like me, read this book and his others. Be well!
7 people found this helpful
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Ken Hook
5.0 out of 5 stars The way, for every day!
Reviewed in the United States on April 28, 2018
One of the better books that I have read, ever. Great balance between history and practical implementations for today. Highly recommend.
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NaokoYoshida
5.0 out of 5 stars This book is full of wisdom!
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
I really love this book. The concept of Tao had always been so difficult for me. The more I dig down, it seemed to become more complicated. This book Living Tao is easy and principles can simply apply to your daily life. This book has helped me to increase the awareness in various aspects of life. I can see my life has meaning in universal scale. This book will truly be your guide if you are searching the meaning of your life. I am very grateful for this book.
2 people found this helpful
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Mi Kyung Lee
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful!
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
I had the chance to hear the principles of the "Living Tao" through audio and I feel so grateful and happy this book is published for the public. I believe that most people confront those big questions such as, "Who am I?", "What is my life's purpose?", and "How can I live better?" at least once in their lives and while reading this book, I had a chance to reflect upon my self, for my true self and my soul. I truly feel that I want to read this book more and more until it resonates as one with my soul.
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars This book gives us excellent guidance to approach the essential truth of life so ...
Reviewed in the United States on January 19, 2016
This book gives us excellent guidance to approach the essential truth of life so that everyone can have awakenings of their true identity and true purpose of life. The most outstanding part of the book for me is Chapter 11 and 12 although all the messages in the book are very enlightening. Through these chapters, it guides us to gain enlightenment scientifically and to choose the greatest vision for all . My wish for all people is to live their lives with more hope and confidence by practicing the principles of Tao and operating their perfect brain system.
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Hyou Sang Ahn
5.0 out of 5 stars He was delivered to me the World of Tao in very easy and powerful way
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
When I was young very curious about that “Life and Tao”. Perhaps I’ve been searching and seeking the real purpose of my life. Ilchi Lee, he is a New York Times Bestselling Author, and a Tao master. This book also has a message to all humanity. The opening brought tears to my eyes it was so touching. He was delivered to me the World of Tao in very easy and powerful way. Thank you Ilchi Lee for your wonderful words and guidance for all humanity.
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Heather J Preisig
5.0 out of 5 stars I particularly love this one
Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2016
I've read many books by this Author. I particularly love this one. It's very easy to read and a great and concise guide. My Nanny passed away recently and I found this book was such a great source of wisdom and I could be much brighter about her passing and I feel a greater understanding about why we are here. I appreciate the way in which this book spoke to my heart. I read if before bed and it helps me sleep well.
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jerry Jang
5.0 out of 5 stars And reminded me happiness and enlightenment are in my spirit and soul
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
Tao Living gives me a lot of answers. Actually this book let me find answer myself from some difficulties in my life. And reminded me happiness and enlightenment are in my spirit and soul. I was so grateful to read this book. While reading this book, I feel my soul and started talking to my soul. I was so grateful and thankful! Life becomes easy everyday and I don't get much abstacle from out there.
I would recommend to all my friends to read this book Tao Living.
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Chang Lee
5.0 out of 5 stars Teaches us how to live in harmony
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
When I read this book I could more clearly and deeply understand how to connect with my soul. The most touching for me was developing the five characters to grow my soul. Honesty, Sincerity, Responsibility, Courtesy and Faithfulness. This year I choose to develop the five characters every day. I have made a vision and action plan to follow every day. Thank you for making this great pathway and sharing your love. I also love myself and others.
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Ruby
2.0 out of 5 stars It wasn't what I was expecting.

Reviewed in the United States on September 28, 2019
I purchased the Audible version of this book and I couldn't get through it all. With the title, I thought I was getting a book about Taoist teachings from the Chinese perspective since the historical books of the Tao were from China, but the author often refers to Qi (Chi) as the Japanese/Korean term Ki, which really put me off. The author also refers to the Korean language/teachings regarding Tao. I'm sure this book is great for some, but it wasn't what I was looking for or expecting. It doesn't go through the specific teachings of the Tao either, more of the author's musings and personal insights. I gave it two stars because I really wanted to like it, but it fell flat to me when I was expecting something so different.
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Ilchi lee was delivered to me the World of Tao in very easy and powerful way
Reviewed in the United States on January 22, 2016
I have had read several books about the Tao.
Whenever I read it there was a understanding about the tao and at the same time feedings of gap between reality and understanding tao.
But this book was different, Ilchi lee was delivered to me the World of Tao in very easy and powerful way.
It was beyond understanding but powerful message itself that gives you the courage and power to Change.
Thank you Ilchi lee! for sharing all the messages in this book.
One person found this helpful
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Lea from Las Vegas
5.0 out of 5 stars I love this book
Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2016
I love this book. It helped me understand the universal principles in a more simplified format. Ilchi Lee did a great job in explaining the difficult concepts. It helped increase my awareness in appreciating everything in Life. I'm grateful for this Tao book. I recommended it to friends and family for their own awakenings and to increase their awareness in life. This is truly an inspiring book. It's an easy to read and to understand format. Thank you for writing this book.
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Karen P.
5.0 out of 5 stars Very worthwhile for anyone on a path of self-discovery
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
I am so happy to have this book to refer to. I've studied Tao and thought I knew what it meant...until I read this book. Ilchi Lee explains it in a very understandable way so we can live it, not just understand it intellectually or philosophically. The Tao which is timeless has been brought into our current time and space through this book so we can better understand ourselves and each other.
2 people found this helpful
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Ms. Rebecca R. Tinkle
5.0 out of 5 stars Tips for Everyday Enlightenment
Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2016
This little book of Tao is a must read for anyone who is looking to restore the sense of their true nature to their everyday life. The simple, yet timeless, principles are a good reminder to anyone who is interested in drawing their spirit out from beneath the static of everyday life so that moments of striking spiritual awe aren't something experienced only once or twice in a lifetime, but rather are experienced, well, as the title says, everyday.
One person found this helpful
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Moon Young Kwon
5.0 out of 5 stars This book is a wonderful teacher to me!
Reviewed in the United States on January 23, 2016
The book "Living Tao" was a very unique wonderful teacher to me. I learned so many lessons for my life and awakenings to my true self which is a part of Tao and its manifestation in this life time. I would like to read it a few more times to digest it more fully. The most beautiful thing from reading it was that I could feel the heart and mission of the author, Ilchi Lee. Thank you.
One person found this helpful
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JD
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful Wisdom
Reviewed in the United States on January 20, 2016
The book "Living Tao", by Ilchi Lee, encapsulates profound wisdom and profound simplicity all at the same time. While reading this book, I felt myself being pulled gently to go past my logical understanding into the world of energy...where all things are possible. Ilchi Lee delivers both hope and direction to newcomers on the path and experienced spiritual seekers alike. I was constantly amazed at the depth of truth I felt with each passing section.
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Travis
23 reviews
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March 25, 2020
Such a great book. It was written with so much passion and clarity. Every sentence was sharp with wisdom. This was my first Taoism book and I suggest it for anyone interested!

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Lisa S
30 reviews
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December 21, 2022
4.4

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Michela
21 reviews
4 followers

====
February 9, 2021
Not Your Average Book on Tao

I thought it was interesting that this book is not strictly based on the philosophy of Lao Tzu. In the beginning of the book, the author writes, "The path to the Tao introduced in this book is rooted in my personal experience and in Sundo, which is Korea's own millenia-old tradition of mind-body training." 

He also writes, "I have little interest in understanding the Tao on a conceptual and intellectual level. For the Tao is not to be found in words. My interest is in how to feel and become one with the Tao." 

I thought Ilchi Lee delivered on this promise. 

In "Living Tao," I discovered perspectives and practical tools that I can apply in my daily life to feel and live the Tao
I appreciated this perspective. I think people looking for this will get a lot out of this book.

9 likes

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===

Ming
2 reviews

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January 24, 2016
I have being interested in Tao. I read the original one but it was out of time and not able to applied it to my daily life.
This book is easily read and use as daily practice when I lost the center. It help me out the long term relationship also.
I really appreciated it is printed and I can share it easily. Even I can pick any chapter for family discussing to improve our daily life.
I really enjoy reading it again and again.

=====
Kevin Scott
Author 
3 books
2 followers

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February 16, 2016
A comprehensive and wise look at the way we live and the way we can improve our lives and our planet. Lee's lifelong study of principles between physical fitness and brain energy are enlightening, and he makes the case for his work as a way to enhance life on the planet in general. I will go back to this book again and again.

====
Maryann Kreischer
5 reviews
1 follower

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January 24, 2016
This is a wonderful book that is easy to read yet thought provoking. Ilchi Lee explains the principles of Tao living and living Tao clearly. The reader is drawn to its simplicity and left with an eagerness to embody these principles. A must read for anyone searching to improve their lives.

36 results
====

Living Tao
Timeless Principles for Everyday Enlightenment
By Ilchi Lee
An exploration of the Taoist approach to character development.
Book Review by Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat
https://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/book-reviews/view/28460/living-tao

"Your spiritual growth is demonstrated by the character traits you exhibited in your relationships" is one example of the collected wisdom of Ilchi Lee, a Taoist master from South Korea. This path is a blend of Lee's own life experiences and Sundo, an ancient mind-body training. He is the author of 41 books and the founder of Body & Brain Yoga and Brain Education.

Lee ends the Introduction with the following:

"May our minds meet as one, causing the flames of our lives to burn brighter and, as it receives the warmth of that energy, may the flower of the Tao bloom fully in your heart."

Lee points to the use of the line "I see you" in the movie Avatar. It is used by the people of Pandora and conveys "love, gratitude, respect, and a desire to communicate." He encourages us to "see the Tao" in the place beyond the limits of rational thought. "To see the Tao, we must take away the blindfold of judgment, ideas, and ego that blinds our eyes.

The twelve chapters in his paperback outline the bounties of walking the path of Tao — seeing the big picture, accepting the reality of life, the three bodies, the five issues of life, the evolution of love, and the illusion of death.

One of our favorite chapters covers Five Character Traits for the Growth of the Soul. This task is so important that Zen initiates develop their character traits through nine years of study — three years of cleaning, three years of firewood collecting, and three years of cooking.

The five character traits essential to the growth of the soul are honesty, sincerity, responsibility, courtesy, and faithfulness. Lee sees this nurturance as life enhancing; it creates a beautiful character.

===
Profile Image for Phil.
14 reviews2 followers
January 9, 2016
I have read Western and Eastern books on spiritual world, Tao, enlightenment, etc. Not many books were able to quench my thirst of practicing the ancient wisdom and bringing positive change in my life.

However, Living Tao was different. The way Ilchi Lee explained the Tao was very unique. He didn't follow verses of ancient books, but arranged 12 chapters that are closely related with our daily living.

I really like the way of thinking of spiritual growth. Lee explains, "Your spiritual growth is demonstrated by the character traits you exhibit in your interpersonal relationships. When you show compassion, tolerance, openness and gratitude toward others, you are actively engaging in your spiritual growth."

Also, after reading the book, I came to think a little bit differently about death. Lots of people worry about their physical death, but they are not as concerned about dying before realizing the essence of their souls. When I am reminded of this, whenever I think of death, I find myself trying to live more sincerely here and now.

I would like to recommend this book to everybody who is interested in self-development.
Profile Image for John Fenton.
17 reviews1 follower
January 22, 2016
A wonderful book full of timeless wisdom. Living Tao contains many messages that ring true for our present day society. Among the many messages, Mr Lee writes of Tao Consciousness and saving Earth through a more aware and broader view of the world in which we live.

I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Geumnari.
2 reviews2 followers
March 30, 2017
I was very happy to see that this is now in book format. I have been practicing Ilchi Lee's principles in my daily life since 2007 and it has had a tremendous effect in the way I perceive life and reality. I now live my life with more meaning and compassion and appreciation because of the Tao principles. Like all of Ilchi Lee's other books, his delivery of the principles and laws is simple yet powerful. What also makes it more valuable for me is the application of the Tao principles in my daily life, through physical exercises and training along with energy training. This book makes my practice more profound and a great reminder for me. I can always refer to it to get clarity when a situation comes up for me. I consider it as my antibody or Vitamin C for my soul.
7 reviews3 followers
January 23, 2016
I was curious about what “Tao” is and how I can utilize Tao in my daily life before I found the book “Living Tao” by Ilchi Lee. While I was reading this book, slowly and deeply, I realized that the Tao is always with me, in me and around me, and that I am the manifestation of the Tao in this physical form and energetic system.
Now I think I am able to open the eyes of Tao beyond my physical eyes, which means that I try to see and feel Oneness from everything around me, and I feel easier about everything, even about what I didn’t like before.
It is not easy to describe what I felt and experienced through reading this book, it seems like the book “Living Tao” is alive in me, talking to me, and suggesting to me what I have really needed in my life. This book is a teacher and guide for my spiritual journey toward growth and completion of my soul. Yes, this is a Soul Book. Thank you Ilchi Lee for your wonderful words and guidance for all of us.
Profile Image for Jinny Kim.
3 reviews
January 20, 2016
A powerful story..

Deeply satisfying.. An absolute joy to read
The Secret life of tao living is a rich,Brimming with energy and humor and hope.
Profile Image for Choongsung Lee.
4 reviews
January 22, 2016
When I read this book I could more clearly and deeply understand how to connect with my soul. The most touching for me was developing the five characters to grow my soul. Honesty, Sincerity, Responsibility, Courtesy and Faithfulness. This year I choose to develop the five characters every day. I have made a vision and action plan to follow every day. Thank you for making this great pathway and sharing your love. I also love myself and others.
Profile Image for Edward Sohn.
10 reviews
January 23, 2016
When I read this book I deeply understand my life and soul.

As well I feel more clear about my life purpose.

I will keep choosing tao living to make a better life and a better world.

Thank you
2 reviews
January 23, 2016
Great book to read for all wisdom seekers! I am learning many valuable insights and utilizing them in my daily life. This book gives me hopeful, tranquil and positive mind. If you are searching for practical answers to your spiritual questions, I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Ulrike Schmidt-Hughes.
14 reviews
January 23, 2016
Hand book for Enlightened Living.
- Revealing the most fundamental and profound truth and how to apply it to every day life –
Many people have the desire to know the Tao, the ultimate truth and the way to enlightenment. Just as so many others, I also have the thirst to know the Tao. Reading the book ‘Living Tao” brought me so much closer to that truth.

 Until now It seems like knowing the Tao was directly associated with years and years of ascetic practice in the mountains, far away from human reality. This book took away the mysticism that has surrounded the concept of Tao for so long. It explains the Tao in a very comprehensible way and applies it to all aspects of human life. It is a book that provides deep insights and guidelines on how to not only know that Tao but make it part of our everyday life. I believe that this book will help countless people to awaken to the true values of life and through that help cause a big shift in human consciousness and everyday life as it is lived in our modern times, which is so desperately needed.
Profile Image for Lolita Aulet.
6 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2016
Living Tao is an excellent source of practical spiritual information. Ilchi Lee has an excellent and immeasurable ability to simplify in-depth energy principles as well as spiritual development. Soon the connection and interdependence of physical health and spirituality will be common sense!
16 reviews1 follower
January 24, 2016
I've been reading Living Tao by Ilchi Lee. I have to say that it is so inspiring.
It is helpful for me to understand some things that I have been aware of in a much clearer way. It is also filled with so much food for thought.
I haven't finished reading this book yet, but I know that I will have to read it again to get some of the more deeper meaning of everything. It seems like the kind of book that you can pick up and open it to any page and read as your meditation for the day.
Profile Image for Maria Mora.
1 review
January 23, 2016
The LIVING TAO is a great book!
The more I read the more I want to discover. I feel so much energy on each one of the words, I truly feel a deep connection with my soul as I read.
I truly recommend this book! Not only has great principles but is so easy to follow.
1 review1 follower
January 23, 2016
I learned how to incorporate the Tao into my life through this book.
It gave me an understanding of birth, death, and everything in between.
“One day, we were given life as a gift... We can choose who we are and what the purpose of our lives is... We live life in a finite body, but it is wonderful and beautiful that we can choose for ourselves how we will use that life.”
Actually this was the best guide for me. I truly felt the real value of my life including my body and soul. Eventually I will leave this body and this physical world. Later, when I am old and facing death, I want to be able to say that I made my life and world beautiful. I want to be able to write a poem and sing a song like he said at the end of this book. And I want everybody on this earth to know that we are one.
Profile Image for Susan Lee.
13 reviews1 follower
January 24, 2016
I appreciate Ilchi Lee's ability to explain a deeply philosophical and spiritual subject in plain language. He seeks to help people see beyond their materialistic desires to shift to a spiritual life that benefits others as a way to health, happiness and peace. Through studying principles of nature, practicing mind-body techniques, and making choices how we live that not only benefit ourselves, but others, we are able to feel and have a life worth living. Ilchi Lee even helps the reader to reflect on their preconceptions about life, death and love. This book is not one to just be read for knowledge, but to experience, for that is the way of Tao. I will definitely read this book again and again to help me become a better human being and a person of character that lives to benefit others and complete the growth of my soul. Ilchi Lee, thank you for sharing your wisdom.
Profile Image for Anne Paula Cavazos.
1 review
December 11, 2017
I love this book because it contains many of the principles that Ilchi Lee has discussed in other lectures and books. It it a terrific guide to living life in easy to understand language. I have read the entire book but it will make a great guide to keep when I want to look up something specific or if I just decide to open to any page.
Profile Image for Susan Kim.
11 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2016
A very insightful and interesting book about Tao not from the Tao Te Ching, but from Sundo a form of Tao with roots in Korea. It made me think a lot about my values and what it means to be a human being. I read it because I was interested in the title of "everyday enlightenment". I wanted to understand what that was. The wisdoms in the book were very basic and simple and I felt easy to integrate in my life. It gave me an idea that enlightenment is not about some big event that changes you completely but about the day to day choices that we make.
11 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2016
This book explaines principles of life in easy way to understand for me. I couldnt wait to finish it and I will read it again to get even more. It is like manual to life. Thank you
Profile Image for John Thompson.
4 reviews
January 24, 2016
I find Ilchi Lee's Living Tao to be a very clear and practical guide for how to live according to Tao principles, and also, how to actualize these principles into one's life on a daily basis. I have enjoyed for many years reading Eastern literature, especially Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, and while I enjoy them on a literary level, I do not feel that their books have deeply impacted my life in the same way as Living Tao.

For beautiful verse from Ilchi Lee, I recommend Calligraphic Meditations. For the reader who might be looking for practical ways to improve their life, or to understand their life more deeply, then I suggest Living Tao. This book is well-written, easy to understand and can be applied immediately into one's life. Check it out!
7 reviews
January 23, 2016
It is very impressive to me.
I got inspired a lot of things and to make awareness.
I think everybody need to read this book.
5 reviews
Read
January 23, 2016
I am very excited and grateful that this teaching became available in a book format. This contents has been available only in audio CDs for many years and I had difficulty to share it with more friends at that time. I owe deep gratitude to this teachings because it has been most beneficial guideline for my meditation and healthy living for two decades. Thank you Ilchi Lee for sharing this golden wisdom. I am certain that this can benefit so many other people as well guiding them into clarity and self-realization. If this teaching get shared to everyone in the world, we together, will overcome today's conflicts that comes from duality and competition.
1 review
Read
January 23, 2016
I read this while going through an inner cleansing process. Physical, emotional, and spiritual. It really worked as a guide to help me understand myself and humanity as a whole more deeply. I would recommend to anyone on a spiritual journey
1 review
January 23, 2016
This book gives me a lot of inspiring for daily life. I enjoyed so much for reading this book. Very helpful for watching myself!
Profile Image for Sunnee.
62 reviews
June 18, 2022
I'm willing to look for another book on Taoist beliefs, but this was not a good first impression at all. This surprised me, as the ratings are so high! The first chapter (and much of the rest of the book) was a slog to get through, filled with repetitive sentences that come across as a way to fluff up the word count to make a lengthier book.

The author comes across as someone who is so full of himself, that he uses Taoism as a front to excuse himself from husband and fatherly duties - and really any duties to society. (But he isn't shirking responsibility! He is enlightened! /s)

There are also recommendations to utilize unsafe and unhealthy practices to "prove" devotion and dedication to his version of Taoism. He claims to have gone 21 days without food, sleep, or even laying down at all. Lee Ilchi talks about how he almost died a few times during this stunt, but it was apparently vital for his realizations and new way of seeing the world to come to him. He doesn't say this is a bad thing for anyone to do, just that it isn't for everyone - he presents it as a challenge and "better than thou" feat. "This method worked for me because I had a strong physical constitution..." He also talked about how the normal person will go on two-week-long diets consisting of one meal per day paired with vigorous and prolonged exercise, and how not following through with such a plan shows lack of discipline and devotion. This is unsafe and does damage to the body!

So much of this book comes across as justifications for catering to one's ego under the guise of "seeking enlightenment," that I really hope this guy must simply be a poor spokesperson for the belief system. On top of that, it was such a chore to get through. Not because of complicated theorem or lofty ideas, but because of how mind-numbingly simple, hypocritical, repetitive, and superficial it all was. I do not recommend this book.
Profile Image for Rakeela Windrider.
30 reviews3 followers
July 20, 2023
This book tries hard to be a work of absolute peace, but I consider it only a book of relative peace. It denies the compassionate potential of materialists and assumes that the materialistic worldview is a wasteland void of compassion. The author sees the present day as a horrible place full of misery and social decay. I think humanity has actually gained a lot of compassion over the periods of materialism ascendant, and I see a lot of hope and promise in the present day.

The book is exuberantly heterosexual and spiritualizes reproduction. This really bothers me. You can't have a nature-honoring path without acknowledging that humanity over-populated this world relative to Earth's resource base. A true nature-honoring path should acknowledge that future generations need to be smaller than past generations.

This book claims that most of the diseases affecting modern people are psychosomatic. I recorded it in my notes as something to highlight. I don't approve.


I got the impression that this author's view of individualism is highly negative. Their attitude is kind of fanatically collectivist, seeing the individual perspective as inherently sick and in need of fixing in every case, with a fixed person being de-individualized and turned into a selfless avatar of the pure cosmic will. I feel like that attitude is hostile and manipulative; I imagined the author stripping the mind of a troublemaker to try to make them perfect. All principle is individual principle as all experience is individual experience. People should be respected as unique individuals.
4 reviews
August 9, 2018
Living Tao is the best possible primer for those interested in upgrading their consciousness and their life. Don't worry, this isn't lululala wanna-be spiritual - this is very practical wisdom to help us examine how we've lived so far, and to understand the principles we can apply to live life more completely. If everyone lived like this, we'd have a much better world!
Profile Image for Hyeran Ihm.
4 reviews
June 19, 2019
His teaching of tao is very down to earth and helpful about reflecting on how I live.
Profile Image for Sandy Scheer.
1 review
June 25, 2019
This book brings the simple Universal Principles that apply to all of nature into clear and concise perspective. It was much appreciated and will be used again and again.
Profile Image for Travis.
23 reviews2 followers
March 25, 2020
Such a great book. It was written with so much passion and clarity. Every sentence was sharp with wisdom. This was my first Taoism book and I suggest it for anyone interested!
Profile Image for Michela.
21 reviews4 followers
February 9, 2021
Not Your Average Book on Tao

I thought it was interesting that this book is not strictly based on the philosophy of Lao Tzu. In the beginning of the book, the author writes, "The path to the Tao introduced in this book is rooted in my personal experience and in Sundo, which is Korea's own millenia-old tradition of mind-body training." He also writes, "I have little interest in understanding the Tao on a conceptual and intellectual level. For the Tao is not to be found in words. My interest is in how to feel and become one with the Tao." I thought Ilchi Lee delivered on this promise. In "Living Tao," I discovered perspectives and practical tools that I can apply in my daily life to feel and live the Tao. I appreciated this perspective. I think people looking for this will get a lot out of this book.
2 reviews
January 24, 2016
I have being interested in Tao. I read the original one but it was out of time and not able to applied it to my daily life.
This book is easily read and use as daily practice when I lost the center. It help me out the long term relationship also.
I really appreciated it is printed and I can share it easily. Even I can pick any chapter for family discussing to improve our daily life.
I really enjoy reading it again and again.
Profile Image for Kevin Scott.
Author 3 books2 followers
February 16, 2016
A comprehensive and wise look at the way we live and the way we can improve our lives and our planet. Lee's lifelong study of principles between physical fitness and brain energy are enlightening, and he makes the case for his work as a way to enhance life on the planet in general. I will go back to this book again and again.
5 reviews1 follower
January 24, 2016
This is a wonderful book that is easy to read yet thought provoking. Ilchi Lee explains the principles of Tao living and living Tao clearly. The reader is drawn to its simplicity and left with an eagerness to embody these principles. A must read for anyone searching to improve their lives.

=