Taoism is said to have spawn from the philosopher Lao Tzu. He was the keeper of archives at the imperial court. Lao Tzu was searching for a way to avoid the constant social conflicts of his day. At an old age he wrote down his teachings and left a short book called Tao-te-Ching (The Way and Its Power). Taoism and Confucianism have been hand-in-hand as responses to social and political problems, but Taoism deals with individuals and nature, whereas Confucianism deals more with social conduct and human relations. Taoism began as a philosophy but became a religion when it was adopted by the state and by that time Loa Tzu became Know more as a deity.
             Taoist beliefs and practices are not just limited to the teachings of Taoism. Their beliefs are based solely on the individual. It is believed that Tao is the first cause of the universe, and that it is a force that flows through all life. Each Taoist goal ultimate goal is to be one with the Tao, to be transformed from a conflicting mode to a harmonious mode.
             The conflicting mode consists of the destructive cycle of the Five Elements (metal, wood, earth, water, and fire). Taoist believe that through reformation we can convert the destructive cycle into the creative cycle of the Five Elements. They believe each person must nurture the Ch'i (breath) that is given to them. They worry not of the after-life, but focuse on the promotion of good health and longevity through stillness.
             ------------------------------------------------------------------------
             ...