Tai Chi
T'ai Chi Ch'uan: A simplified method of calisthenics for health and self defence.
Cheng Man-Ch'-ing, paperback, € 14.40
When this book was first published in 1956 in English (it took 30 years to be translated) it was a great help to everybody as until then it had only been available in Chinese. It is no less valuable today as Cheng Man-Chi-ing's writing outlines the correct approach to T'ai Chi Ch'uan and is spelt out in the guiding principles which are essential for good practice. A simplified explantion of the postures of T'ai Chi Ch'uan is given, complete with black and white photographs giving the reader and student a clear understanding of each posture. So many of the books written today are for modern readership which makes this book particularly unique as the style of writing delves into the true roots of Chinese teaching.
Cheng Tzu's Thirteen Treaties on T'ai Chi Ch'uan
Cheng Man Ch'ing, paperback, € 21.00
This edition of the classic text contains 13 essays, and oral secrets from Yang Chengfu, Professor Cheng's master. Here he shares the secrets of his lineage and takes the reader to the heart of T'ai Chi Ch'uan, presenting it as a martial art, a medicine and a form of exercise and self-development. There is a Q&A section with commentary on functions and applications of each of the 37 postures of the short form. With examples from anatomy and physics, he demonstrates precisely how the postures and movements of T'ai Chi work, both internally as energetic principles and externally on opponents.
A Complete Guide to Chi-Gung - Harnessing the power of the Universe
Daniel Reid, paperback, € 28.80
The author is a leading Western authority on traditional Chinese medicine and Taoist healing practices. The simple body movements, breathing exercises and massage techniques that are the basis of Chi-Gung have both physical and spiritual benefits and in this book are explained so thoroughly that many readings of this book are needed to take it all in! For anybody practising Chi-Gung this is most definitely an extremely useful book to refer to in order to further enhance ones understanding and cultivate the energy of life with wisdom and compassion.
The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine: A new translation of the Neijing Suwen with commentary.
Maoshing Ni, paperback, € 28.80
The Neijing is one of the most important classics of Taoism, as well as the highest authority on traditional Chinese medicine. Written in the form of a discourse between Huang Di, (the Yellow Emperor) and his ministers, the text contains a wealth of knowledge not only of diagnosis, therapy and prevention of illness but also an in-depth investigation of such diverse subjects as ethics, psychology and cosmology. By revealing the natural laws of our holistic universe the book offers much practical advice on how to promote a long, happy and healthy life.
Eternal Spring
Michael W Acton, paperback, € 28.00
This book has been written especially for western readership in order to explain the essential theories and strategies of Tai Chi Chuan and Qi Gong. It details their immense value in our daily lives as a most effective means of combating the stresses, strains and illnesses so much part of modern day living and rightly champions these two disciplines as the most comprehensive strategy for health and rejuvenation. Core concepts are covered with an insight and wisdom borne out of many years of practice, study and teaching.
The Healing Promise of Qi: Creating Extraordinary Wellness Through QiGong and Tai Chi.
Roger Jahnke, hardback, € 28.00
What exactly is Qi? The answer to this if you try and explain it is impossible in a few sentences and this could well be the reason that this lovely hardback book is over 300 pages and covers every aspect of Tai Chi theory and practice. Whether you are new to Tai Chi and QiGong or a seaonal practitioner, Dr Jahnke's insights will add new understanding and depth to your practice as it will show you how to access the awesome power of the Universe within you and assist you in fulfilling your intentions. Understand Qi, Access Qi, Cultivate Qi, and Master Chi it's all in 'The Healing Promise of Qi'. Now all you have to do is 'sink and turn'!
The Complete Book of Chinese Health and Healing: Guarding the Three Treasures
Daniel Reid, paperback, € 28.80
The deeper one searches for knowledge and understanding the more there is to learn it seems when it comes to Tai Chi! Thankfully this book covers many of the questions that arise from wanting to gain further wisdom into the traditional Taoist approach to medical self-care, including the basic principles of physical and emotional health, nutrition and diet, herbal remedies, sexual yoga, meditation, breathing exercises and energy control. In the Taoist view, the Three Treasures upon which life depends are essence, energy and spirit and these aspects are all explained with simplicity and clarity so that the layperson can fully understand how to promote good health, longevity and spiritual awareness using these traditional techniques.
The Tao of Health, Sex and Longevity: A modern practical approach to the ancient way
Daniel Reid, paperback, € 14.40
People are increasingly looking to alternatives to Western medicine and stressful lifestyles. In this unique, comprehensive and practical guide we are introduced to the balanced and holistic system of health care used by Chinese physicians, martial artists and mediators for over 5000 years. Daniel Reid focuses on three practical aspects of Tao which have always been of vital concern to men and women everywhere: health, sex and longevity. All three are intimately related, and together they form the foundation of human happiness in this world. The purpose of this book is to provide the reader with a lucid introduction to the basic principles of Taoism, and to offer a practical programme by which men and women everywhere may apply those principles and tap the power of the universe to enhance and prolong their lives.
Confucius from the Heart: Ancient Wisdom for Today's World
Yu Dan, hardback, € 24.00
In the autumn of 2006, Yu Dan, a professor of media studies at Beijing Normal University, gave a series of lectures entitled 'Yu Dan's Insights into the Analects' which was broadcast for seven days on China Central Television. Her highly personal interpretation of Confucian thought was rapturously received, An edited transcript of the lectures sold 10,000 copies on the day it was published. Simply written, and with a view to taking the wisdom of Confucius out of the hands of the academics and the philosophers and making it accessible to the general reader, "Confucius From the Heart" gives us a contemporary Confucius, one who can teach us how to attain spiritual happiness, adjust our daily routines and find our place in modern life. Yu Dan argues that his sayings, or Analects - far from being merely interesting quotes from ancient lore, of little use in our hectic, stress-filled world. Instead, they are simple truths that can speak to each and every one of us and help us lead better, happier, calmer lives.
A Handbook of Chinese Healing Herbs
Daniel Reid, paperback, € 20.80
Traditional Chinese medicine is perhaps the oldest system of health care in the world and one of the safest and most effective. This first easy-to-use pocket guide provides everything readers need to know to explore Chinese herbal medicine for themselves. The book includes: A brief overview of the basic terms and concepts of traditional Chinese medicine. Simple instructions on how to prepare herbal formulas at home, and an illustrated guide to 108 of the most widely used Chinese herbs, with descriptions, therapeutic effects, preparation methods, and dosages. There's also a guide to dozens of readily available prepared herbal formulas for common ailments.