Jonathan Blank's blog

Taoism can be traced back to shamanic practices at the origins of Chinese culture. In the historical documents, the wu (shamans) are masters of exorcism, healing, and divination who journey in the spirit world, employing a vine that allowed one to see spirits. With the rise of Confucianism and Buddhism, the wu practices fell out of favor, but persisted in Taoist practices such as dream yoga. (more)