The Tao of Acceptance - Be Kinder to Yourself Using Ancient Philosophy

Are you kind to yourself? Do you beat yourself up? In this video, I share two practical tips from Taoism, the ancient Chinese philosophy, that can help you be kinder to yourself.
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☯ RECOMMENDED READING LIST
🔸Best Book for Beginners - Tao of Pooh: amzn.to/2ERXE3p
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🔸Best Tao Te Ching - Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life: amzn.to/2BPDaWy
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🔸Supplementary Tao Te Ching - Tao Te Ching (Derek Lin): amzn.to/2GJ0Ivu
An accurate translation, getting you closer to Lao Tze's original meaning. Cross-reference with Wayne Dyer version.
🔸Zhuangzi: amzn.to/2tEvt2H
The second most famous Taoist text after TTC. Profound philosophy told through humorous stories.
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[@George-Thompson]

Next time you're beating yourself up: 1) Remember: You're No Different From an Otter - you can't judge an otter! 2) See the Tao in yourself. Look into your iris and be reminded of your complexity and beauty. You're not supposed to have everything sorted out - just being alive is a miracle. Hope these ideas help you! ✨ I know you love learning, so I invite you to join Master Gu’s FREE 4-week Taoist Wellness Course Learn meditation, Qi Gong and Tai Chi with Master Gu - Taoist Wisdom to help you Live Long and Live Well!: Click to get access- completely free: ⏩⏩ www.taoistwellness.online/free-course

[@HussRisingYT]

George Thompson great work bro. You're changing lives.

[@dankwizard8318]

How do I join

[@enkiikne4978]

hi, i would like to discust with you, about tai chi, life, if it's possible :)

[@kofiaboagye9191]

Thanks George I'm a wing chun practicioner with low self esteem how can I get in touch with u ? My phone numbers 07890202388 I can relate to a lot of things you talk about

[@annacsillag7247]

@@kofiaboagye9191 Kofi! We have to remember these thoughts are a broken record.. we have to learn to not take our "own" thoughts, seriously.. they can hijack us, take us away from our true potential.. such thoughts are ignorance, borrowed from others, who borrowed them from others... We are more than meets the eye... And remember these kind of negative thoughts, lack vitality and are not at all constructive... So let them come, let them go, meditate, make space in your being and joy will enter it... And you'll go beyond the limitations these fearful thoughts bring! And I say all this with compassion, for both of us, and all of us because we all have the same struggle to varying degrees... Til we overcome it at the root, instead of cosmetic solutions that mask the fact we are just not in touch with our source... Qi, prana, divine energy...

[@mastergutaichi]

George prove to be a born orator ! Atticulation, passion and inspiration! YES, be kinder to yourself ! Doesn't mean to advocate to be more selfish.It asks you to be more conscious about your self. A Taoist practiser 's task is to cultivate himself both physically and spiritually. The goal is to obtain harmony with three layers : harmony between him and himself, between him and others, between man and Nature. Among the three three types of harmony, the "within" harmony comes at first. So, since today on, be kinder to yourself. WELCOME to Taoist philosophy to find wisdom as how to live long and live well !

[@dattagrace]

Thank you for this wonderful insight.

[@thepochade5992]

George !! Yoga is not merely about flexibility. Tai Chi and yoga are very similar in the respect of not just slow intentional movement but are both practices that unite the mind, body and soul. So much more alike than you realize 😉 👍

[@Hali88]

yes, the roots are different (Tai Chi started as a defensive martial art to train for combat), but in contemporary life they have much in common.

[@casadekrishna6959]

i think he said that to narrow his topic, who knows maybe next george goes to india???

[@michaeldique]

Taiji and yoga do have those things in common, but taiji is also a martial art with practical martial applications.

[@howlinhoward]

And both incorporate breathing and meditation, an outlook that is compassionate and transcendent, and philosophies that have very deep roots historically and culturally. Both give us an alternative to the crazy self-centered culture we find ourselves in. Well done George :)

[@jgappy5643]

@@howlinhoward so true....

[@juggle_g7579]

Coolest guy ever, great talk.

[@George-Thompson]

💓

[@neromoore]

I came across your channel after deciding to do some research on taoism as I have been trying to find a sort of inner peace through meditation. I have been very depressed for some time but your videos, as well as reading the tao te ching, have really been helping me deal with my depression. I'm beginning to exercise more and just have a happier outlook in general. Master Gu and yourself have both inspired me to try to be a better person and I hope to one day visit the Wudang Mountains myself. Thank you for telling your story and best of luck on your continued journey.

[@emilemontiere6128]

Good luck on your journey.

[@TheMrchillz]

Yoga is not just about 'flexibility' . Yoga means 'Union' with the consciousness. Everyone who consciously uses Chi is a Yogi in nature. Although your subject focus on Taoism is appreciated, I would recommend you to widen your understanding about ancient philosophies of Yoga which are far beyond the scope of body alone. Thanks for all the precious videos .

[@yourtrustedpersonalityguide]

Thanks for sharing. It is very true that many women think they are not good enough especially with their body image. It is a conversation that they need to change in order to lead a happier life.

[@higgsfieldinthefield9916]

Otters like to keep a special stone under their arm, some keep the same stone for many years.

[@MelissaDeleen]

George learned how to accept himself in all aspects: physically and mentally and he's teaching what he learned because it felt amazing to him. He's very genuine about everything he said. The issue is going from a total unbeliever to feeling like George. Impossible if we don't go into an inner journey like he did. It is not necessary to go to a mountain in China for that. He actually found out about the beauty of this doctrine ("The Tao") while in his journey. So here is my suggestion and it worked for me too. First step, be uncomfortable. Many times we're already feeling uneasy with our current situation, so if you feel that way it's great! It's literally the first step to move forward to a different state of mind. Second, find something exciting or search for something different. It could be traveling to another place, but if you don't have the financial conditions to do it like me, then learn a different philosophy or culture or join a group, read about it, meditate about it, enjoy while doing it, if after a while it's not your thing, then move on to a different thing. That's the idea: exploring the world until you find your place. Don't give up! And most importantly, like George said, you are unique. So don't copy what others do but be inspired by them. Travel if you can but if you cannot, don't sit still doing nothing. There's a world of learning experiences when we are searching for our Truth. Keep moving, keep exploring! Life is movement. The time we stop moving, we die. George's story is truly inspiring and if you are like many of us, uncomfortable or unhappy with your life, keep going, explore the world 🌎 The only risk you'll have is to find your truth in the process. The worst case scenario, at the end of your life, you'll look behind and you'll be proud of yourself of all the experiences you had.

[@munihmuni8814]

Excellent talk, I love the Allen Watts reference. His last book, "Tao, The Watercourse Way" has really helped my understanding of Taoism and I highly reccomend it. His voice is very soothing and his words are very eloquent.

[@dochai2819]

actually tao can not be explain, only can be awareness

[@dochai2819]

there is a sentence "Water benefits everything without evoking conflicts or resistance" in the book(DAO DE JING).we know water can be peace, flow, rage flood, .... frozen, vapor... so what about rage flood!!! that is why the first chapter of DAO DE JING said" The heaven knows that Tao that can be spoken of is not true one"

[@matthewhoward-white463]

Great job buddy. As a teacher, not easy sharing your beliefs with a school audience, nicely done!

[@lunarose6714]

Awesome vid, I'm 28 and still have this teen girl insecurity about appearance within me although I have awareness of it now - glad to discover Taoism recently as a tool to help see the reality and see how we create it! Awesome share and what a great blessing to share with young girls and the world ❤️ thanks for sharing, keep shining!

[@sandraseeper]

George you said it right, the eyes takes us to that place of beauty.....sharing this type of thought provoking inner concept is simply beautiful. thank you

[@rickrab842]

I love it! Life is truly a constant ongoing miracle! Great heartfelt video. It was so wonderful to hear someone else saying these things. Suscribed and Thank you

[@GradyGillis]

Well done, mate. Well-organized and presented. Looked like you quite thoroughly had their attention. I hope they took away something from your talk. You never know when you are really reaching someone and making a difference. As a classroom teacher, sometimes I don't find out until years later that I made a difference for someone. 99% of the time I just never really know. With people - especially young people - self-image and self-esteem are both fragile and massively important. People get into very bad things, such as addictive substance abuse, for many reasons, but low self-worth is one of the big reasons. Sometimes the feelings of worthlessness can lead to suicide. There is the real possibility that you've reached someone and given them tools to take a more positive path. Good on you! 做得太好了。

[@trailerkru9520]

I want what you have George , thank you for sharing

[@clydekelvinandthesinners.3977]

Thank you for bringing master Gu's wisdom to us George, .interestingly my dog is called 'Gu' I am lifelong Taoist, Peace be upon us all my friend.

[@ainomirailario5491]

Thank you for this George. You are so humble.

[@katherineheatleycoaching5918]

“I am an otter”. I love this. It puts the focus back on the fact that you’re alive and you’re a miracle and that is the most important and amazing thing. I Love your channel. Happy new year! 🎉🙏🏼

[@florencekokoris]

George, I love your message and how you deliver it.

[@freddieduquet2065]

You are so great, George. Thank you!

[@SneezyHound]

You made me smile a lot during this video. The Tea Time Taoism playlist has really been ejoyable and insightful

[@vikgrisel]

this is beautiful, this is what i was looking for all the time, thank you

[@theteasessions]

Another wonderful video, George! I feel like young people really benefit by exposure to philosophies! What a wonderful thing to share with them.

[@LunaGatuna888]

Thank you for your contribution to this world through your channel. Great message!

[@marymcmullen8287]

Good to chat to girls about all of this, but as a Yoga teacher, with a deep appreciation for what Vedic Yoga philosophy has to offer the world, I was very disappointed to hear you say Yoga is just about flexibility. Those girls will remember that!! Also an alternative approach to taking your underminer down is to have tea with him, befriend him and see what his motivation is. Less violent and much more therapeutic. Other philosophies also must be respected for what they have to offer. Best of luck with your important work. 🙏

[@anniele3241]

Just discovered your channel George, at the right moment in my life, realising I have been being the underminer recently and that I stopped believing in myself. Be kind, thank you George!

[@RevolutionOfTheMask]

Thank you so much!! Thank you for the beautiful journey!! Because of youre journey i discovered taoism. You helpt me out my depression. I look up to you and i think everyone can learn from you!! Thank you so much!!

[@alegce4497]

You are beautiful ❤️ Beautiful speech. I’m sure you have made a great impact on their perspectives just like you have impacted my perspective after watching your beautiful videos. Thank you for sharing the Tao with the world! 🙏🏽❤️

[@AbbieThoms]

Absolutely excellent well done George

[@Librarypencils]

7 months ago I found you online! Thank you for helping us!!!

[@jojuntgen7393]

HAYA GEORGE THANX a lot to you. I‘m glad that you bring Tao to me. Its Nice to See that you bring such thoughts to us. We can learn a lot from the East. You bring East and West Minded together. Nature Rules. CHEEEERS Jo

[@ramithnanayakkara9864]

You have become really wise George!!

[@sitabayalkoti4228]

I really liked your videos because the way you shared your experience and insight are so helpful. Very simplistic, logical and practical. Please keep it up.

[@MV-ug9xd]

Great video George. I hope you return soon and make more videos. I am hoping to go there myself for a month as soon as I can do it.

[@normaquesada7307]

great talk!! thanks for your effort to build a kinder world

[@patriciahowellcassity767]

Thank you. I'm so happy your here sharing yourself with us. Blessings. Maybe consider becoming active in Toastmasters.

[@LightUpNancy]

Great speech, George!! Well done! Thank you!

[@RewiredforJoy]

Just discovered your channel and am loving every video I've watched so far!! Incredible content 😍

[@lucygraham12]

Hi George, just wanted to say thank you. This is a really helpful channel and an especially useful topic. Very greatfull for all your hard work in creating this content

[@rosetam8598]

George, Love your presentation! You are great!

[@simplica1]

Great talk. This is useful for all. Even adults need to be reminded of not to be judgemental.

[@kemp5402]

this was an amazing video! helps me think about it in a better way

[@user-jv5vo3pz8k]

So moving when watch all those again

[@luke-oakley]

super confident and inspiring. Great progress. MORE

[@soulofnature6126]

Thanl you for your energy thank you for sharing great wisdom you are appreciated

[@karenharker1790]

This is amazing well done see the good in everything x

[@VisionYpensamiento]

Amazing stuff!! Your channel and you are great!

[@LailaFrancis]

That was brilliant.

[@HealthyHairJourney]

Great speech. Thank you!

[@Way827]

George that is amazing!!! Good on you. Well done in teaching English kids about Taoism. The UK, in fact the Western World needs more lessons on Taoism. We need to teach Western people about Taoism. I have dreamed of doing what you have done. I hope that everyone can learn more about the Tao and it's Virtue!!!

[@danielchaudoin6420]

Really enjoyed this!

[@LotusYeshe]

Beautiful use of your own journey and the philosophy of the Way. Taoism has played an absolute crucial strong and peaceful role in my own upbringing, growing up in the mountains has set me for success to such philosophical enlightenment. However moving to the UK is absolutely easy to lose the way and get sucked into a spiral of nonsensical disconnection. How can you not fall in love with George! Teaching, passing on knowledge in that genuine way is what we all should aspire for.

[@PaulnJenna]

Great speech!

[@melissa48]

Lovely presentation George! Thank you! 🙏🏻🥰

[@George-Thompson]

I’m so glad you enjoyed it 🙏

[@adriennesmith200]

You did an amazing job teaching those girls.... 🙏

[@TheNiveaman]

Yo George :) First I wanna thank you for all the great content you are sharing with us. Watching your videos which are both, informative and funny, at the same time, is such a big pleasure. If you're going to have another speech like this, I'd have just a little funny suggestion for you. When speaking of looking at the human eye in the mirror, you could tell them to think: "Wow, eye am beautiful!"...you get me ;) All the best! sam

[@philmcdonald6088]

⭐️ YES.

[@josyjosy7495]

Very useful speech to the young.

[@Jsmithyy]

i love you master you.

[@davebeecher6579]

Thanks George, friend

[@androidenthusiast4943]

I also want to go on the place that i can start to re-build myself, for a months i've been anxious and depressed, full of doubt, regret, guilt and shame.😢

[@TLuijpen]

well rounded talk, George....like the TAO ;)

[@SC-vb2ui]

Beautiful☘️ 🌸 🍀🌺😍 Energy 🙏🏼

[@durhiguin2926]

Proud of you by brother.

[@yolandatejedor214]

Love your story :) You will inspire many people

[@thamaragerig9587]

Your journey feels like it came out of an 80s action movie! 👏🏼

[@Way827]

Mentioning Alan Watts is a good idea too!!!

[@noureddineziani9067]

Thanks for this inspiring lecture

[@Tomas33392]

Awesome! I'm sure this was very useful for many of the girls.

[@Jundiracir]

Just waiting for your TedTalk someday hahaha. Great video man!

[@tonygombas491]

Thank you and I love you 😍

[@melindadz2519]

Love your talk. I am also planning to talk to junior girls about the same topic. I love your examples.

[@betterpol]

Great channel. Thnak

[@arinavogelbacher7262]

Well said, beautiful ideas ☺️🙏🏻

[@nugley]

Ultimately the most beautiful curve on any woman is her smile.

[@sarafritsch123]

nugley 10/10 wholesome

[@michele18schmidt]

THAT IS BEAUTIFUL, I'll have to use it.

[@michele18schmidt]

PIN GUS LMFAO!

[@savvysista14]

That's beautiful😊

[@Tinyteacher1111]

I forgot that saying. Thank you!

[@terencesue9634]

Excellent performance

[@jeremywendelin]

Wonderful talk and edited

[@TheGamingTubies]

This is an amazing presentation, George don't forget that you are beautiful and incredibly, universally magnificent.

[@maximorumba]

Will you be going back to China? I am planning on going to study Tai Chi and Taoism in 2019. I would be honored to meet you.

[@ChildOfFury]

That picture at 21:06 is AWESOME!! I want my own XD

[@RichardIIfan]

Brilliant. One word.

[@George-Thompson]

👊✌️

[@n1ghtflow3r23]

"I am an otter!"... "I am alive!" Great talk. Xie xie, George! :)

[@nandaveerum4399]

It might sound exaggerating but, tai chi is just a part of yoga. Yoga really is the way we can flow with nature, fill like water. Its not just flexibility you see on youtube channels, its the path set by ancient civilization and is discussed in the vedas. You'll have great time learning them all.

[@selah7702]

please learn more about yoga!!

[@Storm_.]

Goes to school, tries to reproduce Georges talk, comes out with 'When you bein ugly, instead be otter'

[@Jaybird196]

Loving the Chakachas music :) .

[@hikingharryTIROL]

Hi, I liked the stories. Good talk. Good ideas how to deal with the underminer. They give me new things to ponder. So thank you.

[@George-Thompson]

my pleasure! glad you enjoyed!

[@lesleydonnelly2622]

Inspiring

[@theartoflearning5961]

Are you going to do another Q and A? If so, I was wondering about your opinion and Master Gu's opinion on LGBT people and the seven object itself, because of the way you all talk it makes me think of you as very peaceful and accepting people so I wanted to know how this would all fit within Daoism and all. I love your videos, and I think that you are doing an amazing job! Love from the U.S..

[@SimplyStuart94]

lol throwing the head mistress under the bus there bud :P

[@fanikokkinopliti4919]

Love your videos!!! Do you have anything on procrastination? I would appreciate it!❤🙏

[@diskordia]

I always wondered, how do you get accepted to such martial art or zen schools? Did you have to pay anything or did they just take you as you were an interested wanderer? Really love how you related to each other, it looks like it's been a very nice time there. :)

[@KimbasKingdom]

Oh my gosh yes! I love otters, they're my favourite animals :D

[@paulthe2mikolajdupontsrens586]

Awesome video sifu

[@George-Thompson]

Thank you kind sir!

[@paulthe2mikolajdupontsrens586]

George Thompson no need to thank me sifu. I should be thanking you . You actually made me want to do martial arts again. I am going to be studying judo and aikido and hapkido and wtf taekwondo

[@raihankhan4374]

Buddy just roasted the cooking LMAOO

[@deciccio360]

I really love your channel. You're such an amazing person, here to show us how anyone can bring joy and knowledge in other people's lifes. KZbin has a really different taste since you're here sharing your experience. Thank you George, from Italy

[@flylikeafly0]

Dear George, all your videos are valuable as gold and your sincereness and energy can be felt even from screen ! i just wonder one thing not even as a beginner of daoism :) i thought all diciplines were against taking alcohol, from budism to daoism.. can you please inform us about what is daoist way of consuming alcohol ? thank you in advance :)

[@markchan8110]

There is no one thing that is totally good nor another thing that is totally bad. There are bad in the good just as there good in the bad. Is all about searching for the right balance.

[@drupimlott1300]

I have no idea how you didn't break down when you said "I spoke to your Head Master and she said you all think your ugly" or something to that effect. That aside I loved your video and I'm glad I found them

[@kiwikim5163]

Beautiful! You had a brilliant idea to combine living in another country with immersion into a native philosophy. Tip: it's not "Me and my dad..." when using a compound subject of a sentence. It is "My dad and I..."