Wu Wei

Taoist concept of effortless action aligned with the natural flow (Tao). Wu wei literally means "non-doing" but implies acting without force, strain, or ego. It's spontaneous action that doesn't interfere with natural processes. Water exemplifies wu wei—soft yet powerful, flowing around obstacles. Wu wei requires releasing control and trusting natural intelligence. The practice involves observing when to act and when to refrain. Wu wei produces better results with less effort than forcing. Applied to governance, wu wei suggests minimal intervention. The concept challenges Western emphasis on willpower and control.