Write a note on the concept of Shanshui as given in the ‘Landscape of the Soul? Explain the concept of Shanshui and the fundamental yogic practice.

Shanshui literally means ‘mountain and water’, which used together represents ‘landscape’. These represent two complementary poles, reflecting the Daoist view of the universe. The ‘mountain’ is Yang which reaches vertically towards Heaven. It is stable, warm and dry in the sun. The ‘water’ is Yin, which is horizontal and rests on the earth. It is fluid, moist and cool. Yin is feminine and Yang is masculine. The interaction between the two is the fundamental notion of Daoism. The third element, called the ‘Middle Void’, is often overlooked. But, it is essential as there takes place their interaction. This can be compared with the Yogic practice of pranayama. Nothing can happen without this element. Man is the conduit of communication between Heaven and Earth. He is actually “the eye of the landscape”.