Shiatsu Theory and Practice or Start Fresh

Shiatsu Theory and Practice: A comprehensive text for the student and professional

Author: Carola Beresford Cook

This book provides a clear and complete introduction to the theory and practice of Zen Shiatsu, presenting vivid detail on the theoretical foundations of both Traditional Chinese Medicine and five element theory. It offers remarkably clear, high-quality illustrations and photos that support text discussions. The all-encompassing 2nd Edition takes the reader through an exploration of the various approaches to treatment routines, with case studies, explanations, and step-by-step descriptions of techniques.
• Clear and readable text allows even beginners to build knowledge and practice with confidence.
• Thorough explorations of the various strands of theory - TCM, five elements, Zen - are presented to make their integration into practice clear and rational.
• Detailed text descriptions and illustrations of meridians, point locations, and functions are presented together with the relevant underlying anatomy.
• Step-by-step descriptions of treatment routines and appropriate touch techniques enable readers to apply what they've learned.
• More detail has been added to the points covered in each meridian section.
• Greater mention is made of other styles of Shiatsu practice, giving the reader a frame of reference with each style in context alongside Zen Shiatsu.
• New case studies emphasize practical applications and solutions.
• More material is presented on diagnostic techniques and the interpretation of diagnoses.
• New line illustrations and photographs enhance the text.

Table of Contents:

Section One: Practice
1. The Basics — Why, When and How
2. Recommendations for the Shiatsu Practitioner
3. Shiatsu Tools and Techniques
4. Shiatsu Treatment Routines in the Four Positions

Section Two: Theory
5. Traditional Chinese Medicine for the Shiatsu Practitioner
6. Zen Shiatsu Theory

Section Three: Harmonizing TCM and Zen Shiatsu Theory
7. The Water Element — The Kidneys and Bladder
8. The Wood Element — The Liver and Gall Bladder
9. The Fire Element — The Heart, Small Intestine, Heart Protector and Triple Heater
10. The Earth Element — The Spleen and Stomach
11. The Metal Element — The Lungs and Large Intestine

Section Four: Bringing Theory and Practice Together
12. The Four Methods of Diagnosis
13. Interpreting the Diagnosis
14. The Treatment
15. After the Treatment

Section Five: Appendices

Books about: British Columbia Wine Country or Viticulture and Brewing in the Ancient Orient

Start Fresh!: Your Complete Guide to Midlifestyle Food and Fitness

Author: Diane Clement

A complete program for a rich, rewarding and healthy mid-lifestyle.

Healthy eating combined with a realistic exercise plan is key to maintaining optimal health and avoiding chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. The authors, a chef and an MD -- and both former Olympians -- join forces to provide a tailored mid-life plan for embarking on a solid path to good health and well-being -- and, most important, for staying on track.

Start Fresh! provides the basic tools to assess health and fitness levels, to set practical and realistic goals, and to create a personal exercise model. With this plan in place, the authors add a careful selection of nutritious and easy-to-prepare recipes that complement the exercise program and lead to the sustainable fitness and good health that every mid-lifer wants and needs.

Special sections in the book include a HealthSpan fitness guide and a HealthSpan 10 km power walk program. There is also a section on the new staples -- for pantry, fridge and freezer.

Some of the tasty recipes are:

• Italian mozzarella and fennel salad


• Spanish almond tart with orange and date compote


• Sangria blanca.

Getting fit and staying healthy is hard work and requires a solid program. Staying with that program really pays off with benefits that will last a lifetime.