The 5 Central Teachings of Alan Watts

The influence of Alan Watts on the spiritual and philosophical world is greater today than ever before. Thanks to the release of his lectures on YouTube, his recognition has grown enormously. Many of his speeches are used creatively, such as in music. Watts was mainly active from the 1950s to the 1970s, a time when many young people were searching for alternatives to the traditional Western way of life. His philosophy, influenced by Daoism and Buddhist Zen philosophy, was explained in a way that made it understandable and relevant to Westerners. Here are the 5 central teachings of Alan Watts, in English.

The Unity of All Things (Non-Dualism)

One of Alan Watts’ central teachings is the idea that everything is one. Eastern philosophies emphasize the deeper connection of all things. In Daoism, it is taught that the universe is permeated by a fundamental principle: the Dao. This natural, universal law underlies everything. What we perceive as individual things are, in reality, not separate. Our language and our concepts make us believe in this separation, but in fact, everything is part of a single, vast, vibrating pattern.

Watts often used the image of Indra’s Net from Indian mythology to illustrate this interconnectedness. In this net, every node is a perfectly polished jewel that reflects the movements of all other jewels. Thus, every human, animal, and plant is connected to everything else. This image clarifies the interdependence and unity of all things.

The Illusion of the Self (Ego-Self)

Another important teaching of Alan Watts is the idea that the self/ego is an illusion. We tend to see ourselves as separate units, which can lead to a deep sense of alienation. Watts explained that this notion is a delusion. In reality, we are not separate from the world but an inseparable part of it. Awakening to the realization of this unity can lead to a deeper sense of belonging and necessity.

Watts often used the image of a wave in the ocean to explain this idea. A wave may appear to be an independent phenomenon but is inseparably connected to the ocean. Without the ocean, the wave could not exist; it is an expression of the ocean. Similarly, we are expressions of the world around us.

Alan Watts x The 5 Central Teachings – Everything Flows

Life is not a journey with a specific goal but a continuous flow, another teaching of Alan Watts. He criticized the Western tendency to view life as a sequence of goals. Instead, he described life as a game, a dance, or a piece of music. The point of a piece of music is not to reach the end but to enjoy each moment of the melody. Life should be enjoyed and experienced, not seen as a problem to be solved.

Watts often referred to the Daoist concept of Wu Wei, action through non-action. It means acting in harmony with the natural flow of life and thus finding harmony and balance.

The Here and Now (Present Moment)

Watts emphasized the importance of the present moment. The art of living consists of viewing every moment as unique and keeping the mind open and receptive. When we surrender to the here and now, we experience life with new depth and intensity. This presence in the moment can lead to profound, immediate experiences.

Meditation as a Path to Understanding

Meditation played a central role in Alan Watts’ teachings. He saw it not only as a technique to calm the mind but as a profound practice to explore the true nature of reality and the self. Through meditation, we can learn to let go of our thoughts and experience the essence of our existence. Watts emphasized pure observation as the core of meditation – a practice that can lead to a transformation of consciousness. Alan Watts’ philosophy remains timeless and relevant. His teachings offer valuable insights and tools for leading a more fulfilling and conscious life.