A principle of
Taoism, an ancient Chinese
philosophy. Wu wei is achieved when things work in their own way, to produce results naturally, without combative effort, like water flowing around the rocks in its path.
Wu wei can be seen in T’ai Chi, the most effective and powerful martial art, where the opponent is worn down by sending his energy back at him. Never is force opposed by force, instead it is overcome by yielding. This principle can be shown by striking at a piece of cork floating in water. The harder you hit it, the more it yields and the harder it bounces back.
A Wu wei approach does not add to the conflict, it does not fight fire with fire but with water. So with the least effort and with the most fun you can achieve the greatest results.
Quoted in part from the Taoist Schollar Jez Harding.