Turtle and Snake, symbols of Wudang Mountain Taoism. From TCCII Journey to China
Today our group began their studies with Master Wang Li Sheng, a Longmen Daoist Priest and Xin Yi master who lives on Wu Dang Shan (武當山). He taught the original Wudang Daoist version of the Eight Pieces of Brocade called Shen Gong Ba Duan Jin. He taught the internal aspects of it well as it relevance to Yang Sheng (Life nourishing). Throughout the day he discussed Taoist beliefs, practices and history.
Lunch at our hotel was fabulous. The food was very simple, but all the ingredients were sourced locally, from local farmers using organic farming practices. We have had more elaborate meals in China, but this was one of the best in terms pure simplicity and quality.
Master Wang resides at the Purple Cloud Temple when he is not wandering the land. After lunch and a rest, we headed up to the temple for a visit. As his guests, we were well received and he personally guided our group around the temple complex.
Wudang Purple Cloud Temple. From TCCII Journey to China
The temple was calm and peaceful. It is one of only two temples left on the mountain that are fully staffed by Taoist priests. The silvery mist obscuring our view from the temple summit only made the atmosphere more sublime. It almost seemed like the Dragons and Immortals of old were about to materialize in front of us.
As Yinong and I enjoyed the peace of the temple, we ran into several Taoist priests and priestess that we know but have not seen in a few years. It was great to catch up with them. In the evening we participated in the evening ceremony and chanting.
Meditation and sleep came easily on the tranquil Taoist mountain.
[...] Symbol of Wudang Mountain, the Xuanwu tortoise-dragon at Purple Cloud Temple Photo: Silent Tao [...]