A Way through Pandemic: Daoist insights during the COVID-19 Crisis

Abstract

The COVID-19 crisis has made most Filipinos reconsider, rethink, and reprioritize various aspects of their lives. While they are well-known for their resiliency, they are not immune to experiencing fear, anxiety, uncertainties, and other disruptions, as these are inevitable experiences during crises, particularly pandemics. While the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a public health crisis, there is a fear that it also provoked an existential one. This paper explores the philosophical insights of Daoism and its practicality and relevance to navigating such crises. In what ways can Daoist insights guide us regarding the right way(s) to manage ourselves during the crisis? How can these insights help us reframe our perspective of life during a pandemic? The paper employs reflective analysis to examine the crisis brought on by the pandemic and argues that Daoist insights can offer a practical approach to managing oneself and coping with the pandemic. This paper will highlight two Daoist principles: the principle of wu-wei and the principle of yin-yang. These principles are vital in approaching life with flexibility and balance. Ultimately, this paper shows that adopting Daoist insights will improve our understanding of the crisis brought on by the pandemic and how this could serve as a practical approach to managing our lives effortlessly during this trying time.