What is the meaning of Nature 自然？

Nature is the law of Dao. Laozi wrote in Tao Te Ching: "Man takes the earth as his model; the earth takes heaven as its model; heaven takes Dao as its model; and Dao takes nature as its model." In other words, the inherent nature of Dao is spontaneity (nature), and the law of Dao's spontaneity is what both heaven and earth follow. Since humans live between heaven and earth, the highest principle for their actions should also be to follow the law of Dao's natural spontaneity.

Nature has no fixed patterns. Dao gives birth to and transforms all things, and all creatures grow naturally according to their own inherent natures, without any imposed factors. This ensures the harmony of nature. When humans cultivate the true Dao, they should imitate the natural spontaneity of Dao, conform to the laws of natural changes in heaven and earth, respect the characteristics of all life in nature, and strive to maintain the harmony of nature.

Regarding all things in the human world, one should not force outcomes but comply with the natural laws of the development of things. One should know contentment, know when to stop, and know the constant principles, so as to keep the mind calm and the spirit elevated.