Lao Tzu is often regarded as a contemporary of Confucius and lived in a time of significant social and political upheaval in China. His life details are shrouded in legend, and there is considerable debate about his historical existence and the accuracy of the accounts of his life. Lao Tzu is best known for the "Tao Te Ching" which translates to "The Book of the Way and Its Power" or "The Classic of the Way and Virtue." This text is considered the cornerstone of Taoist philosophy. Lao Tzu's teachings laid the foundation for Taoism, a major philosophical and religious tradition in China. Taoism emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao and includes practices such as meditation, Tai Chi, and traditional Chinese medicine.