Book Description

Addressing acupuncture form a unique perspective, Acupuncture: An Anatomical-Based Approach abandons the traditional oriental medicine approach in favor of a carefully analytic scientific presentation. The tightly-focused book describes the progression of chronic pain in the peripheral nervous system, demonstrating that points conducting pain impulses through the peripheral nerves become more tender to palpation throughout life in response to episodes of pain, and they do this in a predictable sequence. This sequence, expressed as a "pain quantification," has important prognostic significance to the person's response, not just to acupuncture, but also to any other intervention. ... Read more

Book Description

Pulse diagnosis, one of the jewels of traditional Chinese medicine, is a profoundly subtle instrument for the early diagnosis and prevention of disease. Yet far too often, in the haste of modern education and practice, it has become a neglected art. Chinese Pulse Diagnosis offers a clear and practical path toward a much deeper understanding of this traditional diagnostic method, while recasting its interpretation in the context of our own times.

The book is organized in seventeen chapters, which are presented in an advancing hierarchy of complexity. The early chapters consider such general issues as terminology, classification of pulse qualities, historical comparisons of positions and depths, the effects of age and gender, and a methodology for taking the pulse. The middle chapters provide an in-depth look at each of the individual pulse qualities, identified by felt sensation based on such characteristics as rate and rhythm, stability, volume, depth, size, and shape. The types of pathology associated with each of the qualities are also discussed.

Later chapters examine the significance of the qualities when found across the entire pulse, or large segments of the pulse (left or right side, across the burners), and at different depths. The relationship of the various pulse qualities to psychology and prognosis are addressed in separate chapters. A final summary chapter on interpretation, supported with case histories, draws everything together to show how this information can be formulated into a rational diagnosis.

Key information in the book is organized and richly illustrated in over one hundred tables and graphic drawings. Individual chapter tables of contents and extensive indexes provide convenient access to every aspect of this important subject. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

a new approach to an old skill
I was looking for a book that can teach me the secrets of pulse diagnosis but the problem was the terminology. I went to seek help from aryvedic practioners but could not comprehend. "Chinese Pulse Diagnosis" is a readable and highly informative approach on the subject. Pulse diagnosis is a difficult art to master and more difficult is its teaching. Leon I. Hammer has used the latest method of teaching for this ancient art which I hope will give a new life to art. I understood many things of the art for the first time though I read them in many other books before. ... Read more

Book Description

This text presents a thorough view of classical acupuncture alongside the modern approach. It has several unique features that have contributed to its popularity. First, the authors have applied a precise method of translation that allows the clinical experience of both modern and classical Chinese authors to be transmitted directly. Second, the text provides the most consistent information at the lowest cost. Third, it provides a more systematic arrangement of study material.

The authors have selected the best discussions available and arranged the text in four systematic sections:
Materials and Methods, Channel, Pathways, Channels and Points, and Approaches to Point Selection. The materials selections have been adapted to Western practice. However, the techniques presented are those used by Chinese clinicians and include some not usually taught to Western beginners.

The methods of needle manipulation and stimulus management are explained in clear, step-by-step procedures. The information in the channels section describes all the channels, including the extraordinary channels, the main, internal, branch, divergent, connecting, sinew, and alternate pathways as they are currently understood in China. The pathway-by-pathway descriptions are supported by sketches that follow the Chinese sources.

Main pathologic signs, therapeutic capacities, symptoms, and TCM pattern relationships are detailed. Information provided for each point includes Chinese, Pinyin transliteration, English translation, Western alphanumeric designation,anatomical location guide, and classical location. A full set of point functions used in TCM to link diagnosis and treatment are detailed. Each function organizes the symptoms presented using TCM concepts. The classical signs and symptoms from which the modern indications and functions were derived, and primary and secondary indications and supplementary functions are also presented.

The technical information for each point includes needle stimulus, contraindications, needling depth and recommended technique, extent and duration of moxibustion. Special point groupings, such as the shu or mu points, are also included. The last section provides a systematic presentation of indications for a point. Reference tables summarize current Chinese clinical experience, emphasizing principal points and their relation to TCM treatment principles. However, the descriptions of classical methods of point selection render a dimension of information that is otherwise unavailable. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

AN ABSOLUTE ESSENTIAL!
This book is gold.
The beginning pages of the book state the essential in-depth theory of Acupuncture and Moxabustion. It talks about the needles, the acupuncture techniques, etc. -- all incredibly valuable & important information.
Each section begins with a picture of the full meridian and then proceeds to discuss EACH AND EVERY POINT on that meridian. For EACH point, this is what you get:
- location of the point (using modern anatomical terminology)
- classical location (using the cun measurements and/or descriprion on how to locate the point)
- Function of the point
- indications (what this point can be used for)
- Supplementary indications (even more indications on how this point can be used to relieve conditions and disorders)
- Illustrative point combinations and applications
- Stimulation (how this point is best stimulated, the depth of insertion of the needle, and any applicable moxabustion, such as number of cones and the length of time moxabustion can be applied)

As everything is easy to locate and use, this book makes for an excellent reference on ALL the acupuncture points in a very well-organized manner.

this is an easy and well built books in acupuncture.
Very easy to read and to make consultations on it for the road, as every branch of medicine one needs a helper and in acupuncture this is a friend, a very good one.

I like books like this...very easy and has every thing...
I like books like this in the medical aspect of acupuncture, it has every thing I need to know. Maybe it's price is too low to be real...I think it's a need for the serious student and for the old acupuncturist to remember the points and it's clinical relations on both western and eastern medicine.

The best acupuncture textbook in English
Fundamentals of Acupuncture is unique among English-language textbooks for beginning students in that it actually is a textbook, and it actually is written in English. Sadly, it has not received the recognition or application it so richly deserves.

Fundamentals was developed from a variety of modern and pre-modern sources, and seamlessly incorporates those sources into a coherent work that honors the past and imparts present-day acupuncture simultaneously.

This book clearly presents the foundations of acupuncture theory, including all aspects of the channel system, from primary, connecting, divergent, and sinew pathways to channel communications and extraordinary vessels. It describes a variety of needle techniques as well as moxibustion. Entries for individual points include functions, indications, both classical and modern instructions for location, a translated name, the Chinese name in characters, the Chinese name in Pinyin with tone marks, regional anatomy, insertion depth, stimulation methods, and where applicable, a description of acceptable qi sensation.

What most sets Fundamentals apart from similar books is its pragmatic orientation and inclusion of translated Chinese disease-diagnoses, with a useful glossary of terms. A large portion of the book is devoted to point selection, combinations, and therapeutic principles, all with an emphasis on real-life clinical applications. This is the only beginner's book to properly translate and give the meanings of disease-diagnosis terminology, which makes the specific character of each point and the structure of acupuncture treatments much easier to understand for beginning students. By comparison, other similar works have been so terminologically vague as to be useless.

If I could only recommend one acupuncture book to beginning students, Fundamentals would be it.

It's a useful supplement.
Since the contents of the book are thoroughly described by the staff at Amazon, I won't delve into them. I agree that F.C.A. is better organized than most textbooks. Each section on the meridians contains diagrams illustrating the main pathway, important points along the meridian such as luo points, divergent pathways, the corresponding channel sinews, and more. After several pages of diagrams, the authors describe that meridian's points. The information includes the point's name (alphanumeric code, simplified chinese characters, pinyin, and english); its location from scientific and traditional perspectives; its functions; disorders that can be treated with that point; the methodology of treatment; cautions and prohibitions if they exist; and combinations with other points for treating a particular illness. The section ends with a chart for selecting those points that will most effectively treat particular disorders.

Additionally, there is enough space on each page for lecture notes.

Overall, I am very impressed with F.C.A. It is excellent and best of all, cheaper than other books of this calibre. ... Read more

Book Description

There are many books about acupuncture points, but what is lacking are descriptions by expert practitioners of how they themselves actually go about selecting, finding, and using the points. This type of book would allow the reader to "peer over the shoulder" of the expert to find out what they really do in the clinic.

Finding Effective Acupuncture Points does just that. Shudo Denmei, author of Japanese Classical Acupuncture: Introduction to Meridian Therapy, and a leader of the meridian therapy movement in Japan, has selected about 160 of his favorite points, the ones he actually uses in the clinic. Here he describes in specific detail how to use palpation to find each of the points on the body, and to determine whether or not they are "active." Then he identifies the particular conditions for which each point is best suited, rather than merely reciting a laundry list of all possible indications.

With insightful stories about his own discovery and use of the points in a practice that has spanned nearly five decades, this master teacher brings each of the points to life for other acupuncturists. The book is organized by body region, which makes it especially convenient for finding appropriate points on particular parts of the body. There are also over 90 drawings which illustrate the locations of the points in relation to anatomical landmarks and other points and channels.

This is a book that belongs in the pocket of every practitioner, where it will become a well-thumbed treasure. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A must have in any Acupuncture Library
Shudo Sensei is a true gift to the Acupuncture community. It is rare to find and acupuncturist with such great skill and even more rare to find one who is willing to share his information and personal experiences so openly. Shudo Sensei provides a practical look at points which are commonly used and explains proper needling technique, location and indications. He still stresses the need for a proper root treatment, but also provides "symptomatic" uses for points, along with stories of personal experience. Steven Brown does an amazing job translating this book and makes me think that his skill as a translator is only matched by his abilities as an acupuncturist. If you want your acupuncture treatments become more effective you must read this book.

A true master
I have been fortunate enough to attend a seminar with Shudo Demei and his ease, technique and understanding of acupuncture blew me away. I highly reccomend this book to anyone who wishes to improve their abilities as an acupuncturist. Shudo Sensei fills the pages with alternative point locations, alternative uses for common points, case histories, and clinical experience. The information in these pages can be found no where else as Shudo Sensei himself has based the majority of this information off his many years of clinical experience. I must also thank Stephen Brown for his great work in translating this book. His translation skills are matched only by his skills as an acupuncturist. ... Read more

Book Description

Acupressure Self Help Book ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Well illustrated and lots of symptoms covered
I recently purchased both this book and "Say Good-Bye to Your Allergies" by the same author. This is the much better book - actual information on treating particular symptoms, rather than an extended apology for her NAET system of allergy treatment. The only thing that I really found more distracting than helpful was the use of medical terms when navigating to particular pressure points. I've read several books on accupressure, and this is the only one that requires a decent knowledge of 'Gray's Anatomy' to understand much of what she is saying. The illustrations go a ways to helping that, but I couldn't escape the feeling that the author was trying to make sure that readers knew she REALLY is a medically trained doctor.

Again, aside from that caveat, a good book with lots of maladies addressed.

An Excellent Self-help book!
This is an excellent self-help book. Page "58" is very helpful to overcome immediate allergic reaction temporarily. On the very first visit, Dr. Mala taught me how to use these points. Every morning when I wake up I massage these points before I get out of bed. That gives me tremendous energy all day along. During my initial NAET treatments, I was advised to massage these points every two hours. That helped me pass my treatments without any unpleasant reactions. I love this book.

Best Accupressure Manual
This book has been a godsend. With some experience in accupressure my wife and I have been able to use this book to address all sorts of ills. She once brought down a 104 F fever to normal in 2 hours using the pressure points in this book.

The only downside is that QA on the book is sorely lacking. Points on diagrams are missing in the narratives, the index does not include many common ailments that that are actually covered and can be found by browsing through the pressure point descriptions. There are many other editing mistakes. If this is cleaned up in the second edition, as a working manual this will be second to none.

Pretty good...
This book is so easy to follow. Anyone can follow his directions as far as the acupressure techniques. I have no knowledge of physiology or the acupressure. Overall, it is a great book. I really recommend this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Dao of Chinese Medicine is the first Western text to shed light on the reality of the ancient healing arts of China, revealing that Chinese medical theories are based on important physiological findings.This is in contrast to the Western interpretation, popularized since the 1940s and 50s that Chinese medicine and acupuncture involve undefined energy and blood circulating through imaginary meridians.Unfortunately, the energy-meridian idea condemned Chinese medicine to be viewed in terms of metaphysical beliefs, limiting its acceptance into mainstream health care.It also led to a growing frustration to reinvent acupuncture in Western terms before understanding the true way (dao) of Chinese medicine.Dao of Chinese Medicine sets the record straight, explaining how ancient Chinese physicians eveloped a physiologically based medicine with the theories supported by human dissection studies and how Chinese medical theories are consistent with 21st century explanations about how acupuncture works. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

WOW- The Best English CM Book in At Least a Decade
I'm an acupuncturist, AND an author who puts Chinese medicine (CM) into layman's terms (see PulseMed.org). One of the most difficult things to explain is "What is qi?" and it's not fun responding to objections that Chinese medicine is unscientific or even occultic.

Kendall's book is an academic and scientific answer to these problems, a more accurate revision of our Western understanding of Chinese medicine, and a resource for all future western improvements on this ancient system.

As Philippe Sionneau says, and Kendall echoes, we must know Chinese medicine - what it really was in the past - before we can innovate intelligently.

Both Kendall and Paul Unschuld are doing a great service to English-speaking acupuncturists by using their scholarly skills to uncover more truths about Chinese medicine, and to question some of the popular conceptions of CM in the West. Of course, I don't take everything they say as gospel - I wonder about Unschuld because it's said he doesn't really like Chinese medicine, and we know he doesn't practice it. Yet, Unschuld's being an outsider can be a good thing, because criticism often leads to "iron sharpening iron," an improvement in our knowledge and understanding, or at least in our ability to cogently argue one side of an issue. Kendall, on the other hand, has practiced and taught Chinese medicine for decades.

I think some people in my profession will hate this book. Many of the "traditional" acupuncturists in America, as in France, are hopelessly enamored with the false idea of energy circulating in meridians, and some have even made this an integral part of their personal spirituality. They may not listen to Kendall's findings.

Some of my peers do not embrace "medical" acupuncture, an approach that Kendall claims and I agree is common sense: that we should learn Chinese medicine, then understand its parallels in Western medicine, and even subject CM theories to scientific validation.

Kendall explains what damage our misconceptions about CM have done to the system itself, and how it has slowed the Western medical community's ability to take it seriously and examine its insights.

I haven't read the whole book yet... indeed, some of it must be studied, and may be beyond those without a good grounding in neuroscience and immunology, but I think learning them in this context is well worth the effort. I'm happy to have a lot of the information about the neuro and immunomechanisms of acupuncture all in one place - I've seen some of this in various essays or studies, but this presentation includes drawings. And that is one strength of the book- most people are visual learners, yet so many books use only words. Kendall includes a plethora of charts and drawings.

This may not make it easier to explain acupuncture, but it will make our explanations a lot more credible. My patients always respond better to my explanation of acupuncture, which is based on neuroscience and PETScan findings, than they do to theories of energy circulation, and those I've told about Kendall's tying meridians/vessels in with blood vessels and qi with nutrients (ying) and oxygen immediately said, "That makes more sense."

Thank you Deke!

A MAJOR ACHIEVEMENT ...BEYOND EVEN JOSEPH NEEDHAM
As a Western-trained biochemist and a critical commentator of Chinese Medicine, I read Donald Kendall's book with keen interest. For more than two decades since the rise of popularity of acupuncture in the West, Chinese Medicine has been regarded as any other folklore medicine derived mainly from empirical experience with little scientific basis, despite the fact that it has been practiced for over two thousand years and has long been the only mainstream healthcare system in China until recent century. Even today, this healing art is still practiced as a complementary medicine in China and in overseas Chinese communities.

In recent years, the quest for herbal-based alternative medicine in the West has made Chinese Medicine increasingly appealing not only to the ordinary populace, but also to western medical professionals. This ancient healing art is said to have embraced the environmental, nutritional as well as emotional influence in its etiology and be capable of providing individualized therapies which could only be realized by the future pharmacogenomic approach.

However, to most westerners Chinese Medicine is as mysterious as the Chinese Ancient Civilization it belongs. The reasons could well be that the classical cannons of this healing art are all written in very concise and hard to understand ancient Chinese, and its underlying therapeutic principles are shrouded in the ancient Chinese worldviews of Five Phases and Yin-Yang. Furthermore, most attempts in the past to interpret the principles of Chinese medicine either do not properly recognize the ultimate consistency of its functional organ concepts with modern physiology, nor all together misunderstand its essential theories of disease etiology and balance of Yin & Yang due to inaccurate translation of the some of the critical concepts. All these have led to the misperception that Chinese medicine is a totally outdated traditional therapeutic system passed down merely by generations of empirical healing experience, with little scientific basis for verification and hard to reconcile with nowadays mainstream western medicine.

It is therefore an intellectual delight to find in Dr Kendall's new book "Dao of Chinese Medicine" a fresh interpretation of this oriental healing art in terms of modern physiology. The content of this book is logically laid-out in fifteen chapters starting from the quest for the Dao, i.e., the way, and the ancient beginning of this healing art, to the interpretation of many important concepts and principles of Chinese medicine, and finally to the different approaches in diagnosis and treatment which were adopted by the Chinese physicians over the centuries and are still practiced today.

From the start, what makes this book different from most existing English texts on Chinese medicine is that Kendall derived his source material by taking on new and more accurate translations of Huangdi Nei Jing, the most reverend cannon of Chinese medicine, and successfully demystifies the misleading idea that Chinese medicine is on based energy circulation through invisible meridians. As the readers will discover, ancient Chinese medicine is not just based on an ancient philosophy of Five Phases and Yin-Yang, but is firmly rooted in empirical physiological studies, which includes, against common customs of the time, post-mortem dissection.

... I consider Dr. Kendall's book a major achievement in introducing Chinese medicine to the West in ways even Dr. Joseph Needham could not achieve in his monumental work of "Chinese Science and Technology". With over 200 citations to more than 80 treatises of the Nei Jing, this book reveals the rational basis of this ancient healing art with modern insight which will be instrumental for future application, research and acceptance of Chinese medicine in the West. The Dao is a must read for students, practitioners of Chinese medicine as well as other health specialists and individuals who would appreciate the fascinating story of the great indigenous medicine of China.

By: Kenneth J.T. Li, Ph.D.,D.Sp.
Former Assistant Director, R&D, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong University

Five Stars and Two Thumbs Up!
Wow! What a tour de force...scholarship, readability and impact! Someone finally makes acupuncture and Chinese Medicine REAL! If this were widely read, the medical profession would be more likely to give Chinese medicine the respect it deserves and the public would be even more enthusiastic about it. The western medical profession has largely patronized Chinese Medicine. The Dao of Chinese Medicine makes a strong case that this dismissal of Chinese medicine is misguided, and based upon flawed interpretations. Western writers early on misunderstood the historical origins of Chinese medicine and popularised the idea of an unknown "energy" coursing through imaginary "meridians". Dr. Donald Kendall in the Dao of Chinese Medicine sets the record straight in this refreshing book.

Dr. Kendall has long been respected in the international acupuncture community for his lucid explanation of the physiological mechanisms of acupuncture and for his attempts to bring the educational standards of the western medical model to the profession. Kendall is a scholar who reads the ancient texts in the original Chinese, and a highly successful Chinese Medicine practitioner and teacher. In the Dao of Chinese Medicine, he extends his reach to the full scope of Chinese medical theory and practice. Kendall has the gift the late Isaac Asimov had of making the complex and esoteric understandable. Primarily a textbook for western and Chinese medical students and doctors, it will also find an audience with healthcare decision makers and the public. Those who are inspired by a vision of a healthcare system integrating the best of conventional and traditional medical systems, will find their spirits soaring after reading Kendall's book. Medical doctors, academic and clinical researchers and medical practitioners of every stripe will feel far more confident about the rationale and validity of Chinese Medicine.

This is an academic book but it is also a great story. Kendall's documentation is meticulous and his style is engaging. The Dao of Chinese Medicine reveals an ancient medical system that stands up well to scientific scrutiny. Chinese medicine comes off as the equal of western medicine in many respects, and as its superior in other respects, particularly in its emphasis on prevention through attention to building immune function. Kendall traces the development of Chinese medicine from its roots in physiological studies including post-mortem dissections. This lead to a number of pioneering medical "firsts" including detailed descriptions of the cardiovascular system, the original discovery of blood circulation, the earliest descriptions of the immune system, information about the spinal cord, sensory and motor nerves, and the organization of the musculoskeletal system.

William Harvey's explanation of blood circulation in 1628 is considered the greatest single event in Western medicine. His work led to an era of scientific exploration in medicine and to the rejection of the mistaken ideas of Greek and medieval medicine embodied by Hippocrates and Galen. The fact that Chinese physicians made this discovery two millennia before Harvey does not diminish Harvey's extraordinary breakthrough, but it does put it in historical context.

The Dao of Chinese Medicine repudiates the notion that Chinese medicine is inscrutable, nonsensical or illogical. Kendall accurately translates the original source material and crosschecks it against contemporary scientific research, and so unveils the genius of the ancient Chinese physicians.

HMO administrators, clinical directors, and medical doctors now have the ability to appreciate the expanded range of valid options available for patient care. Other implications are the enhancement of patient choice and reduced healthcare costs, as safe, non-invasive, drugless alternative modalities of Chinese medicine can be justifiably and responsibly selected where they are appropriate. Students of Chinese medicine have a way to explain what they do in terms accepted by the consensus reality and to achieve more consistent and repeatable results through a deeper understanding of how the body and its internal and external aspects interact. The health-conscious public now has available a definitive source for gaining better understanding a medical system which may significantly improve the quality of their lives.

This groundbreaking book serves the international community well and enhances the concept of an integrative "world medicine". Five stars and two thumbs up!

Steve Paine, OMD
Listed Chinese Medicine Practitioner (Hong Kong)
Licensed Acupuncturist (Hawaii) ... Read more

Book Description

Meridian therapy is a school of Japanese acupuncture which is distinguished by its emphasis on the classics, its utilization of the five-phase points in treating the root of disease, and the importance which it attaches to palpatory skills in diagnosis and point location.

Japanese Classical Acupuncture: Introduction to Meridian Therapy is noted for the clarity and simplicity of its style, and is the most highly regarded introduction to this subject in Japan. The theoretical and historical basis, diagnostic framework and treatment strategies of meridian therapy are discussed in detail.

The author provides a step­by­step introduction to pulse and abdominal diagnosis, and explains how to incorporate the concepts and techniques of meridian therapy into other styles of acupuncture. The text is interwoven with case histories and anecdotes from the author's lengthy practice.

Extensively edited in collaboration with the author to fit the needs of Western acupuncturists, this book opens the door to Japanese classical acupuncture for Western practitioners. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

meridian therapy
Relevant, pragmatic, an excellent reference for clinical libraries, Introduction to Meridian Therapy is ideal for the beginner and experienced practitioner alike. Well rounded information on meridian therapy that is highly applicable to clinical practice combines with numerous charts and diagrams for easy reference. ... Read more

Book Description

For the first time, a single pocket atlas covers all the major body and ear acupuncture points, as well as the most commonly occurring trigger points.It is ideal as a quick reference in your daily practice or as an exam preparation guide.This wealth of information makes it invaluable to experienced practitioners and to those new to acupuncture. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Good, but not for beginners
Caroline's review is true, but this book was not what I expected. It describes only some selected points after showing all points on a full human picture. That is why it is not for beginners.

A quality book
I was a bit dubious about buying this book as I have a lot of books on acupuncture already and no one had reviewed it. The reason I was considering it was mainly because of the ear acupuncture, which is often not covered in much detail in mainstream acupuncture books. Anyway, about a year after looking at it (since it was always popping up when I was browsing), I took the plunge - and it was well worth it.

The book is paperback size and weighs about 280 g (10 oz), mainly due to the glossy high quality paper used. The contents are extremely well organized and key information is presented clearly. The illustrations and photos are excellent. The introduction covers the body cun measurements. Part I covers the 12 main meridians and the conception vessel (Ren mai), governing vessel (Du mai) and extra points. For each meridian, all the points of the meridian are shown in one photo of a real human body, followed by detailed illustrations (showing bones, muscles and tendons), locations, actions, indications and needling of the major points. There are also blue boxes containing extra tips for locating points or warnings about treatment. Part II (50 pages) covering the ear is well done with reference to both the Chinese ear points and Nogier's ear points, including indications. The locations of points (or areas) in this section are depicted on photos of real ears. Part III (90 pages) on trigger points is equally well done. The references indicate a wealth of acupuncture research and resources in German. While this book may never become a recommended text in North America due to the already well-established texts available, it would be useful as a compact compendium for carrying around or as reference for both the student and practitioner. ... Read more

Book Description

Contrary to popular myth, the original purpose of dim mak was not the training of assassins. It was an intensive study of the medical arts that incorporated the martial arts, and its ultimate goal was to heal, not to destroy. True to the intent of the ancient Chinese masters, here is an undiluted, holistic study of dim mak as both a martial and a healing art. Included are a historical overview of dim mak and Traditional Chinese Medicine, discussions of the physiological mechanism and medical risks of acupoint strikes, an indepth introduction to the classical 36 Chamber training program traditionally used to teach dim mak; detailed analyses of the medical and martial applications of each of the acupoints on the 12 main meridians, complete with detailed diagrams outlining each meridian system and its acupoint locations; and an introduction to herbal pharmacology, which was an integral part of traditional dim mak training. Appendices serve as quick reference guides to the activation method and results of selected point strikes. For academic study only. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Wonderful ....
Fantastic Book, absolutely wonderful.

As a doctor of traditional chinese medicine, and a student of wu yi, it's hard to find the "genuine article" when it comes to books and authors. This book is fantastic. The chinese is done in modern pin yin, which makes things much easier. The herbal formulas are definately proper. The history is well written and accurate. They even do a good job including a western look, without taking away from traditional ways, which in my eyes will always be the most important aspects of dit mak.

All of these things have also been covered with the honour and respect they deserve.

Overall, this is definately a must have for any serious martial artist.

Yours,
Hastings

Great to see; Congratulations!
G'day Rick,

Been a long time mate and this was the only way I had of possibly getting in touch with you again because your e-mail went awol on me. I am very happy to see the long awaited book is finally published and while I have yet to find or see a copy I shall look forward to reading it and reviewing it at a later date. I'd very much like to get in touch again and find out how things are treating you both in training and your academic life. I look forward to hearing from you again and having some good discussions as in the past. Again congrats and I hope this augurs well for your future.

Best regards, Simon - psi_fan@yahoo.com

Both basic information and higher-level overviews
Collaboratively written by A. Flane Walker and Richard C. Bauer, The Ancient Art Of Life And Death: The Book Of Dim-Mak is an intense, thorough, authoritative, and holistic study/presentation of all aspects of the martial art of Dim-Mak, which was originally created as a blend of medical and martial arts with the goal of being used to heal. Cycles of rebirth and destruction permeate the teachings and philosophy of the art; The Ancient Art Of Life And Death presents both basic information and higher-level overviews by combining modern-day interpretations with reproductions of classical texts. Analysis of acupoints, the fabled 36-chamber training sequence, herbal pharmacology and much more fill this seminal reference for dedicated martial arts practitioners who are interested in learning more about this ancient practice.

Inside the 36 Chambers of Dim-Mak
First off, let me preface this review and recuse myself to a degree. I am the co-author of this particular book. After much consideration, I decided to post something to Amazon.com, to help give the reader a general idea of the scope and content of this book, since none is currently included with this listing. The Ancient Art of Life and Death: The Book of Dim-Mak, took a considerable amount of time to write. Conservatively, Mr. Walker and I spent almost four years writing the text; roughly equating to 15,000 man-hours of highly specialized research, review, and work. As part of the review process, we submitted large portions of the text to a number of Doctors in the medical community. The intent of this project was to provide the advanced martial arts reader with a host of important facts and information, concerning the effects of martial applications to the acupoint centers of the human body. The major chapter areas of the book include:

1. Historical Overview of Traditional Chinese Medicine
2. The development of Dim-Mak, Dim Hsueh and Dim Ching
3. The Mechanism of Acupoint Strikes
4. The Medical Risks Associated with Acupoint Strikes
5. The Three Ways of Dim-Mak
6. Introduction to the 36-Chamber Training Sequence
7. Overview of the Classical Acupoint System
8. An Introduction to Herbalism
9. Herbal Formula Preparation and Pharmacology

The section covering the classical acupoint system covers all the points on the 12 major meridians, including both medical and martial information, and health and restoration information. This information is derived from Mr. Walker's extensive martial arts training and professional background, under the direct study of Matsuetsu Kushubi. The coverage of the points will hopefully serve to augment / complement the high quality information previously published on this subject: most notably, the extensive catalog of material of Mr. Erle Montaigue, as well as Dr. Michael Kelly. The book also includes general anatomical drawings and TCM charts of the main meridian acupoints.

As a notation: the two midline collaterals are NOT covered in this book. There are some specific reasons for this. Most importantly, the physiological processes of striking the midline channels (the Governing Vessel and the Conception Vessel) are different than the triggering mechanisms of the main meridian points. The centerline points will be covered in the follow-up book, which Mr. Walker and I are currently in the process of writing.

Excellent!
I've read many books on karate and pressure point fighting. This is the best book on dim mak ever! ... Read more

Book Description

This book is written to help the applicants to prepare and self-assess for the NCCAOM certification examination.However, those preparing for other standardized acupuncture examinations may also find this book useful.

This book includes 1000 multiple-choice questions with answers.The topics covered reflect the content outline of the NCCAOM examination. The questions follow the format used on the NCCAOM examination. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

NCCAOM ACUPUNCTURE EXAMINATION
HELPFUL WHEN YOU ARE NOT AT SCHOOL ANYMORE BUT HAS SOME ERRORS, ANYWAY CHEKING THEM HELPS DOING THE REVIEW.

Errors, not helpful
This is a horrible prep book. I took three of the tests and found, upon review, that over 10% of the answers were wrong! I can't believe that the previous reviewers didn't catch this. Difficult to use for test taking and scoring. Many of the questions are as poorly worded as the actual NCCAOM test. In this way, it is helpful.

the best book for nccaom exam
Before I read this book, I was not sure if I could pass. This book help me preparing the test. I passed it at the first time easily. There is new informtion about this book and some samples of questions at the web site namaa.org. check it.

Check it before you buy
Although it is a very good book for preparing any acupuncture examination, it may be not the one you need. Before I bought this book I checked the content and sample of questions on the website namaa.org to make sure that was what I needed. I believe that all reader should do the same to avoid disappointment.

A very helpful book
This is a very helpful book. I read this book couple of times and found out where my weakness is . My score is better each time I repeating the practice exam. I think this book is especially good for the people like me who are not in the school right now. It gives the chances to practice the exam before you take it, and it helps you to get an idea what level you are at and what score you are expect if you take the exam. ... Read more

Book Description

This revision reflects major updating, expansion of hot topics, and coverage of trends, current areas of research interest, and controversies in veterinary acupuncture. The book begins with the history and concepts of acupuncture and continues with the anatomic and neurophysiologic basis of acupuncture, research on acupuncture, practical techniques, instrumentation, and point selection. Part two covers acupuncture in small animals, including a canine atlas, avian acupuncture, and chapters that focus on disorders grouped by body systems. Part three is devoted to acupuncture in large animals. It begins with three different equine atlases, followed by equine acupuncture treatment according to body system, and concludes with acupuncture in cattle and a porcine acupuncture atlas. Part four covers failures in veterinary acupuncture and veterinary manipulative therapies. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A well written book on a complicated and ancient art
This book helped me save a horse's life. When I was far from veterinary care and had a horse stricken with colic, I was able to help him using the techniques learned in this book which augmented the veterinary acupuncture course I had taken years before. The illustrations and charts are very well done and they alone are worth the purchase price.

Excellent book
This book by Dr. Shoen is an excellent reference for veterinary acupuncture. His case studies are very helpful and the point locations are easy to follow. No veterinarian or acupuncturist should be without this book in their reference library. ... Read more

Book Description

Tap Your Troubles Away

It's that simple. Meridian Therapy is a self-healing system that can be learned in minutes and can relieve a lifetime of emotional pain. A cutting-edge technique based on the ancient art of acupressure, it involves stimulating the energy meridians in the body by tapping on specific energy points and awakening their healing power.

In Five Simple Steps to Emotional Healing, noted therapist Gloria Arenson explains the scientific basis of Meridian Therapy and teaches readers the five easy-to-follow steps that will allow them to break free from stress and negative emotions. Meridian Therapy can be practiced any time, anywhere, in order to

Improve performance in sports, work, and the bedroom
Stop the fears that limit activities and ruin relationships
Eliminate the urge to procrastinate
Conquer cravings and compulsions
Heal emotional scars and painful memories
Improve self-esteem
Dissolve panic attacks before they start ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Skeptics . . . put this to the test
This is one simple, yet powerful technique. All you have to do is put it to the test. Somehow the process cuts quickly to the core negative thoughts and can eliminate self sabotaging behavior that is the result of imprisoning beliefs. We all have internalized some misbeliefs along the way, this quickly frees one from those bonds. This is one book that should be in every library.

It works, it really works!!!
I wish this book would have come out years ago. Gloria Arenson's approach to healing is fantastic. It is fast, easy and you don't have to wait for days or weeks to feel better. It's truly amazing that you can feel better now. The content is thoughtfully laid out and easy to read. Arenson's approach makes me think that this really could be the last self-help book I ever need!

Highly recommended
I found this book to be extremely helpful both personally and professionally. It is written clearly so that busy people, such as myself, can use the technique easily. It is down to earth and basic and at the same time explains in a readable fashion, how and why this method works. I am a psychotherapist and teacher and have taught the technique to students and clients, both adult and children. But most of all, I use it on myself often. It has helped me to cut down on my obsession with chocolate. It has helped reduce pain in my back. It has helped me feel much better over a loss I recently suffered. I could go on and on. It almost seems to easy and simple to be true--but it really does work!!

A Gargantuan 5 Stars!
Okay, so this shouldn't work. It makes no sense. Meridians? Tapping? Where's the logic? At least, that's what I used to think. I've suffered from agoraphobia and found public speaking impossibly painful. But part of my work requires me to occasionally get up in front of huge groups and either give a talk or sit on a panel. I'd reached the point where I couldn't talk or breathe. I was turning down events, which hurt my business and worried me that I was going to end up so agoraphobic that eventually I wouldn't be able to leave the house. Desperation drove me to try Dr. Arenson's method. I used it in advance for a month, practicing just as she says in the book, imagining my getting up in front of the big audience I was scheduled (terrifyingly) to speak at recently. By the time I got there, I was worried but okay. By the time it was my turn to give the talk, I was still okay (when you're agoraphobic, "okay" is wonderful). When I actually opened my mouth, words came out. I could breathe. Even more amazingly, I actually discovered that I was enjoying myself. What a marvelous feeling. And that's the point. So, I give this book a gargantuan 5 stars. If you want help, it's right here.

It really is simple
This technique really works! Don't let the cover fool you this is a great book for both women and men. The book is so easy to understand. The text flows in a logical progression. There are great examples of situations in which people were able to resolve their issue or problem with this technique. I enjoyed reading this book and the technique I learned so much, that I bought several more copies to give to friends. This is one of those "self help" books that actually works! Go ahead make your life better, check out this book. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Valuable Resource for Five Element Acupuncture
This book should be required reading for any acupuncture student. Ms. Connelly's thesis provides important and difficult-to-find information on Five Element Acupuncture. Her book is well-written and easy to understand. The case study and vignettes offer a unique glimpse into this type of treatment. As a student of acupuncture and chinese medicine, I found it to be a highly valuable resource.

This is a beautiful book
I gave Dianne Connelly's book on the Five Elements to my mother, an artist, because it clearly describes the art of Chinese medicine. It lifts the veil from the mysteries of a healing tradition that expresses a deep respect for nature and wellness. The British school of acupuncture often looks deeper than quick-fix Chinese medicine by reaching for the source of imbalance.. It is well worth looking in to. I recommend it to readers of ASIAN HEALTH SECRETS and anyone interested in PERSONAL RENEWAL.

Good, basic info. on five element acupuncture practice
There's surprisingly little info. "out there" about five element acupuncture, first taught by J.R. Worsley, originally of the U.K. This book provides some of the only written info. you'll find, and because of that, is fairly helpful. If more were written, this book might seem kind of basic/generic, but there's an absolute paucity of available info., so it's actually very helpful, by default. The author studied with J.R. Worsley in England, and breaks down what the five elements are like re: health and treatment through this unusual, rare form of acupuncture. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

You'll learn from a true expert
This book really gives the reader a great routine for Shiatsu Therapy. It also teaches which trigger points can be touched to heal symptoms like headaches, insomnia, sinusitis, etc.

The Bible of shiatsu and accupressure. Buy this book.
Take it from someone who knows; this book is exactly what any would-be practitioner of Shiatsu and accupressure needs. If your just starting out, or if you've taken years of classes on the matter as I have, Mr. Namikoshi will show you step-by-step exactly what points to hit, in what order for maximum effectiveness, and using what positioning of the body as well as the hands and fingers you are applying with. No homeopathic practitioner should be without this book; I only wish I had more stars to work with. I must emphasize that I am not acting on Mr. Namikoshi's behalf, nor do hope to see anything except more people writing reviews such as this one other than myself, for that will mean that more people have gone out and found a copy themselves. Buy this book. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Gua Sha: Atraditional Technique for Modern Practice
Gua Sha is a technique that uses a skin lubricant, such as massage oil and a simple chinese ceramic soup spoon (no sharp edges now!). It's a life saver for the tired figers of those who have to give massages to those with tight, fibrous, ropy or crunchy muscles. I first came across this book at an acupuncture conference in 1996. It was one of my best purchases of the year. The book covers in depth, a topic only glanced upon in most acupuncture schools. It's technique is not just for acupuncturists. I believe it's a must read for massage professionals, especially if your hands are starting to wear out from years of giving massage.

The beauty of the book is the pictures of the skin discoloration that may occur if you are very vigorous in your technique. They can be shown to clients as a form of informed consent. If you are more moderate in your technique, this extreme reaction will rarely occur past the first hour. However, a forewarned patient is one that will not sue you. Worth the price of the book right there!

Secondly, in most acupuncture schools, gua sha is largely taught as a technique for wind-cold invasion or stiff necks. My practice has included alot of chronic musculo-skeletal pain due to old sport injuries and the such. Before reading this book, I limited the technique to scapular and upper back pain, but after reading it, have confidentally expanded gua sha to every sort of muscular injury with great results. I have saved a number of people from exploratory surgery by removing pains of unknown etiology, thru the use of this technique and proper muscle knowledge. This is why I recommend it for massage therapists, physical therapists as well as Oriental and TCM practitioners.

This book includes a resource area that gives you ideas for what areas of the body to address for various ailments, if you are afraid to experiment on your own, or on yourself. I believe, if you add a recently published companion book by the same publishers concerning cupping (Cupping Therapy by Chirall), you will have a compementary set of low cost therapies for muscular aches (not to mention some other internal medicine applications), that are a very effective addition for any TCM or massage practice. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A practical guide & other stuff
This book gives very good guidelines and clear, precise instructions that will broaden the scope of treatment of any inquisitive TCM practitioner and/or student. Ilkay Chirali does an excellent job in presenting interesting applications of the cups, many of which will be totally new for a lot of people.

The book contains many clear pictures of cups, their different forms of application (ten methods of cupping, wow!), and also pictures that can help the practitioner explain to the patient the effects of the treatment. The section on treatment of specific conditions is very illustrative, and will be welcome by practitioners who are not afraid to try new things.

There are, however, a couple of weak spots. I acknowledge the effort of Mr. Chirali in researching and providing information on the background of cupping, but I would have liked to see more of that from the Chinese side. Most of the information in the first chapter dwells on cupping in the west. This material, although interesting, may not entirely be within the scope of the book (not at such length, anyway, in my opinion), and there are no quotes from Chinese books and only very little historical information on the development of cupping in the East. I would also have liked the author to discuss at length the Chinese theories on the workings of the cups, as well as to tie it in with the theories of chinese physiology TCM students are more familiar with.

There is a section on integrating cupping with other therapies, such as reflexology, aromatherapy, chiropractic, and so on. Although I agree that the benefits of cupping can very easily be extended to these other modalities of treatment, it also falls outside of the scope of a book entitled "Traditional Chinese Medicine Cupping Therapy". This information might well broaden the potential readership of the book in general, but to the acupuncture student (such as myself) these pages are not exactly useful.

It shines through the text that the author knows and loves his subject, with which he has had contact since he was very young. It is, all in all, a great, practical book, and I hope many practitioners will read it and add its contents to their treatment repertoires.

Cupping Therapy
Cupping Therapy-Traditional Chinese Medicine Unique Reference for practitioners and students of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Welcome second print! 'First print' sold-out under 11 months of the first publication! I like to thank everyone, my Publisher (Churchill Livingstone-Harcourt Brace co Ltd), marketing staff, Agents, distributors and especially to those practitioners and students who purchased the book and found it be helpful in their practice. Editorial Roca is preparing Portuguese language edition, and the expected publication date is November 2001.

Dear reader, Chinese Medicine like any other medicine is an accumulation of tried and tested theories, experiments, remedies and treatment methods put together to help the unwell. Cupping Therapy is only one of the techniques amongst hundreds if not thousands offered today by the complementary/alternative practitioner. This book reflects my own research, experience and knowledge that I have gained over the past 15 years both as a practitioner and as a teacher of cupping therapy. 'Cupping Therapy -Traditional Chinese Medicine' title, is designed to assist both the students and the practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine and various other tactile therapists such as Massage, Aromatherapy, Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Kinesiology, Alexander Technique, Shiatsu, Reflexology, Polarity and Physiotherapy. I am privileged to be the first TCM practitioner/teacher to put together this unique and comprehensive Cupping Therapy manual. My ultimate aim is to help colleges and schools to include cupping therapy as part of their treatment programme or educational syllabus. While encouraging and promoting the practical use in clinics by way of structured seminars and workshops around the world. I would also like to hear your experiences and comments regarding cupping therapy, particularly on the section 1/7 Ten methods of Cupping. Your comments and criticism will only serve to enlighten me further on this ancient healing technique. Please feel free to get in touch with your enquiries using the cupping help line. Cupping Therapy Helpline E-mail: cuppinghelp@ilkaychirali.co.uk

With my best wishes Ilkay Zihni Chirali (Author) 7/July/2000 Cuppinghelp@ilkaychirali.co.uk

This is a well-thought-out book on a hard-to-find subject.
More people should know about this therapy - maybe this book will help. My wife's family used it in Vietnam, I experienced it during acupuncture treatment, and it turns out my father's nanny used it in Paris in the 30's! Mr. Chiraldi's 'History Of Cupping' section reveals its tradition reaching back to ancient Egypt or beyond and through all cultures.

This book is interesting, clearly written, authoritative, and would make a good reference for the professional and the well-informed patient. ... Read more

Book Description

This exciting new textbook gives a clear, detailed, and accessible presentation of the main features of constitutional five element acupuncture treatment. It covers the context and history of this form of acupuncture, as well as the relevant Chinese medicine theory. After examining the elements themselves, and the functions of the Organs, the book explores the basis of diagnosis in five element acupuncture, possible blocks to treatment, and the treatment itself. It puts this style of treatment into the context of other styles of acupuncture treatment - especially Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as it is used in the West today. * A clear and authoritative exploration of five element constitutional acupuncture. * An description of the principle aspects of diagnosis within this system, ironing out inconsistencies often present in discussions of these aspects. * An inspirational encapsulation of a popular style and approach in acupuncture, of interest to all schools of thought in Oriental medicine. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Acupuncture, Meridian Theory, and Acupuncture Points
This is the definitive book on the subject of acupuncture and will also be of use for those who practice acupressure and pressure points in martial arts. The book is invalueable- it provides the means of finding points in a simple and understandable way without alot of professional jargon. Another suggested book for martial artists would be The Layman's Guide to Acupuncture by Yoshio Manaka, MD and Ian A. Urquhart, PhD by Weatherhill publishers, NY

Acupuncture, Meridian Theory, and Acupuncture Points
One of the best books I've ever read about acupuncture. Li Ding is a real Master. ... Read more

Book Description

At the culmination of their professional careers, great Oriental physicians often write books setting forth the mature versions of their clinical vision, their creations and accomplishments. Chasing the Dragon's Tail is a book in this tradition, but one that also charts a course for future explorations. Thus, while it details Dr. Manaka's clinical system in its fullest and most effective form, it is also an invitation to further investigation by one of the most inventive Oriental practitioners of the preceding generation.

The text introduces Dr. Manaka's major clinical and theoretical accomplishments by describing how the "X-signal system'' is the foundation of human topology, function, and response. In essence, the X-signal system defines qi, yin-yang, and the five phases as clinical events, just as traditional Oriental thinkers recognized these ideas through right-brain pattern recognition. While Dr. Manaka references some of the most advanced scientific thinking of our era-information theory, holographic models and new paradigms-his explanations are full of practical tests which readers can use to confirm his ideas for themselves. The core of the text is a complete description of Dr. Manaka's treatment system. This is of great importance, not only because Dr. Manaka was recognized in both Japan and China as one of the foremost practitioners of his generation, but also because the system has already proven itself adaptable to many others. It is thus a clinical manual of unique value because it describes Dr. Manaka's most important techniques: ion pumping and other root treatments, as well as his distinctive use of fire needles, channel stimulation techniques, sotai, moxibustion, and other modern Chinese and Japanese clinical developments. Beginning with a step-by-step template for formulating and confirming a diagnosis, Dr. Manaka provides the instructions necessary to apply these techniques quickly and with confidence. The text concludes with case histories and appendices that provide supporting technical details. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

East meets West on common ground
Using ideas from chaos, quantum, systems, and information theory (and many more), this book is a truly fresh and much needed perspective on TCM. The X Signal System abandons the causal theory of western biological sciences to answer the questions of TCM and effective treatment, and draws explanations and theories of energy, information exchange, and life from modern physics.

I am a student of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and am young in the arts, but it is clear that the foundation laid in this book will be used as a framework for western science to gain a new appreciation for Acupuncture.

We have learned much since the Huang Di and his ministers, and now with the help of Manaka, we can focus on effective treatment in modern times, as well as the classics.

- Thomas