Asian Therapies Resources

Asian Therapy covers a broad range of topics. The list at the right includes topics that are of special interest to me. Under each of these topics you’ll
find comments on books and websites I recommend, as well as comments on
local teachers, classes, and stores. (Local means the South Bay area,
south of San Francisco.) Each topic appears on a separate page.

On the rest of this page, you’ll find a brief note on each of the topics.

Note that the links below will open in a second browser window.

Chinese Medicine Basics Chinese philosophy and the principles of Chinese medicine are at the root of all Asian Therapies. Chinese Medicine & Lifestyle Chinese medicine is about being in balance and in harmony with Nature. Diet, exercise, and all aspects of our lifestyle have an impact on our sense of well-being. Five Element Theory The Five Elements refer to a process of transformation from one state into another. They’re named after categories found in Nature: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Chinese Medicine & Emotions Positive emotions are highly beneficial for the body. Negative emotions, including stress, take a toll on the body over time.  Acupressure Acupressure is a system of balancing the body’s energy by applying pressure to specific points along the body’s energy channels.  Tui Na Tui Na — a style of acupressure massage — offers all the benefits of traditional western massage, plus the ability to address and alleviate specific health concerns. Shiatsu Shiatsu — a style of Asian Bodywork developed in Japan — combines Chinese massage techniques with insights from Western physical therapy. Jin Shin Jyutsu Jin Shin Jyutsu is a uniquely powerful style of acupressure. Introduced to the United States in the 1950s, it is often used as a complement to conventional healing methods. Chi Nei Tsang Chi Nei Tsang practitioners use deep, soft, gentle touch in the abdominal area to relieve physical complaints and maintain health. Qigong Healing In Qigong Healing, the practitioner is a vehicle for directing universal life energy into a client’s body.  Movement Practices When practiced regularly, Asian movement exercises (Yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong, Do In, Makko-Ho) bring both predictable and unexpected benefits. Asian Nutrition In Chinese medicine, foods are classified according to their energy, flavor, and direction of movement. The qualities of foods, such as hot or cold, can directly affect corresponding conditions in the body. Wellness Topics A Chinese medicine perspective on common conditions: Headaches, Women’s Health, Allergies, Arthritis, Insomnia, Osteoporosis, Back Pain. Chinese Astrology Chinese astrology can provide insight into the cycles of our lives and into our basic character.  Students of Chinese Medicine Books and websites of interest to students of Chinese Medicine and to recipients of Asian Bodywork who would like to know more about Chinese medicine. Bodyworkers Books, videos, and classes I recommend to anyone considering a professional bodywork practice.