The Tao of sexology book cover

The Tao of sexology

Stephen Thomas Chang
3.92 (223 Reviews)

Key Themes in The Tao of sexology

  • sexual energy cultivation
  • taoist internal exercises
  • hormonal health optimization
  • spiritual sexuality
  • longevity and rejuvenation

Quotes from The Tao of sexology

  • Sex–a natural force as vital as breath itself–holds the key to spiritual elevation.

  • The sexual organs became known as the 'stove.'

  • Sexual energy represents the most potent force in the human body.

  • These glands produce hormones-the 'fire' that rejuvenates cells.

  • The anus [is] a prime indicator of biological age.

Characters in The Tao of sexology

  • Stephen Thomas ChangAuthor and researcher of Taoist teachings
  • Dr. Alexis CarrelNobel Prize winner who studied the wheel of life

About the Author

About the Author of The Tao of sexology

Stephen Thomas Chang, author of The Tao of Sexology: The Book of Infinite Wisdom, was a renowned Taoist physician and herbalist whose work bridged ancient Chinese medicine and modern wellness. Born into a family with over four centuries of medical practice, his great-grandfather served as physician to Emperor Tung Tse and Empress Tse Shi, while his grandmother was a master-physician.

Chang held degrees in medicine, law, theology, and philosophy, and taught Taoist principles at institutions like Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley. A former president of the Chinese Medicine Research Institute, he authored multiple seminal works, including The Complete System of Self-Healing: Internal Exercises and The Tao of Balanced Diet, which remain foundational texts in holistic health circles.

His books, translated into over ten languages, have collectively sold more than one million copies, with The Tao of Sexology offering a groundbreaking exploration of sexual energy as a pathway to spiritual and physical harmony. Chang’s formulations, including herbal remedies and acupuncture frameworks, continue to influence both practitioners and enthusiasts of Taoist medicine worldwide.

Download Summary of The Tao of sexology

Get the The Tao of sexology summary as a free PDF or EPUB. Print it or read offline anytime.

FAQs About This Book

The Tao of Sexology explores Taoist principles applied to sexual health and holistic well-being, blending ancient Eastern philosophy with modern interpretations. Stephen Thomas Chang discusses energy conservation, spiritual balance, and practical techniques for sexual vitality, framed through concepts like Yin-Yang harmony and Qi (life force). The book emphasizes integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual practices for improved relationships and longevity.

This book suits readers interested in alternative approaches to sexuality, Taoism, or holistic health. It appeals to those seeking non-Western perspectives on energy management, intimacy, and longevity. Critics note it may resonate less with readers prioritizing strictly scientific or secular views.

With a 3.92/5 average rating, readers praise its unique insights into Taoist sexual practices and energy cultivation. However, some criticize pseudoscientific claims and religious overtones. Those open to spiritual-physical integration may find value, while skeptics might prefer Jolan Chang’s works.

Key ideas include:

  • Sexual energy as life force: Harnessing Qi for vitality and longevity.
  • Yin-Yang balance: Achieving harmony between partners.
  • Taoist techniques: Breathwork, meditation, and controlled ejaculation.
  • Holistic health: Linking sexual practices to mental and spiritual well-being.

While both authors explore Taoist sexuality, Stephen Thomas Chang focuses on medical and philosophical frameworks, whereas Jolan Chang emphasizes emotional and relational dynamics. Some readers find Jolan’s The Tao of Love more accessible, while others appreciate Stephen’s integration of Eastern-Western medicine.

Yes. The book provides Taoist techniques like internal exercises, breath control, and dietary advice to enhance sexual energy. Examples include the “Crane Exercise” for core strength and methods to redirect sexual Qi for holistic health.

Critics highlight:

  • Lack of scientific rigor: Some claims lack empirical support.
  • Religious undertones: Overemphasis on Taoist spirituality.
  • Outdated views: Certain gendered or anatomical descriptions feel archaic.

It frames intimacy as a path to mutual spiritual growth, advocating for patience, emotional alignment, and energy exchange. The text warns against excessive sexual depletion and encourages mindful connection over purely physical gratification.

The book suggests Taoist practices may address issues like premature ejaculation or low libido by balancing Qi. However, readers are advised to consult medical professionals alongside its teachings.

Notable lines include:

  • “Sexual energy, properly cultivated, becomes the elixir of life.”
  • “The union of Yin and Yang transcends the physical—it is harmony of souls.”

Stephen Thomas Chang’s training in Chinese/Western medicine and theology informs his fusion of Taoist philosophy with anatomical insights. This dual perspective aims to bridge cultural and medical divides.

While the book addresses male and female energetics, some readers critique its heteronormative framing. Modern audiences may find its binary Yin-Yang model less inclusive of diverse sexual identities.

Explore Your Way of Learning

The Tao of sexology isn't just a book — it's a masterclass in Health. To help you absorb its lessons in the way that works best for you, we offer five unique learning modes. Whether you're a deep thinker, a fast learner, or a story lover, there's a mode designed to fit your style.

Personalize Mode

Experience The Tao of sexology in your own learning style

Ask anything, choose your learning style, and co-create insights that truly resonate with you.

Personalize Mode

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

See More Stories?

How people are talking about BeFreed across the web
1.5K Ratings4.7
Start your learning journey, now