natural aesthetics: general 691

In old Chinese traditions like 內功 Nei-kung, music, painting, calligraphy and poetry, aesthetics is an inherent component. Traditions practiced within a Taoist perspective are not interested in aesthetics for aesthetics’ sake. It is not just a formal interest. It is an exploration of an inherent aesthetic. The beauty lies in being. When practicing, you tune in with all of your senses, and when things fall (more) into place, the aesthetic is internal as well as external. When you get to the point where you experience and sense your movements, for instance, as aesthetic, you know that you are on the right path. Natural aesthetics in these arts is the result of going along with (natural) intelligence. It is an important guide to meaningful functionality.