Different forms of contemplative practices have been one of the key elements in Daoist tradition. This essay will appear in four parts dealing with:1. History and definition of contemplation in Daoist texts2. Contemplative practices and concept of body-mind3. Contemplation and dietary practices4. Contemplation and art of medicineIn these short essays I define contemplative practices, look historical relevance and how has it affected the development Chinese medicine and what does it has to do

The Eight Auspicious Buddhist Objects: If you wish to insure complete good fortune to all your household, you may want to display all eight auspicious objects together to seal your intent for good times and good fortune for your home and all who inhabit

An recent article in the journal Ophthalmology reported the results of a clinical trial that evaluated acupuncture as an adjunctive treatment for anisometropic amblyopia. In the abstract, the authors conclude:Acupuncture is a potentially useful complementary treatment modality that may provide sustainable adjunctive effect to refractive correction for anisometropic amblyopia in young children. Further large-scale studies seem warranted.A little background information is in order.In a healthy

Laser acupuncture helps metabolic syndromes patients lose weight, achieving reductions in hip and waist circumferences. This type of needle-free acupuncture also reduces cholesterol and insulin levels. These results were documented in a study of obese post-menopausal women with metabolic syndrome.Laser acupuncture and control groups were randomly divided to avoid bias and the results were confirmed with objective measurements: anthropometric, fasting blood glucose and insulin levels

Most people know that feng shui can be used to decorate a home with a better flow, but what about using feng shui for your garden? Instead of your garden layout functioning as a random plot of land, try considering the placement and purpose of the space.Feng shui can transform your garden from a utilitarian hobby to a sanctuary of peace. These tips from this Pottery Barn infographic are a great way to get started.by Ashlyn Kittrell For

Prolonged use of mobile phones, playing games for hours and slouching can affect development of spine, says leading practitioner Lam Chung.Traditional Chinese medicine could hold the key to treating an increasing number of children and teenagers with abnormally curved spines in a city increasingly populated by “smartphone zombies”, according to practitioners.The condition of a 14-year-old girl diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), an abnormal curvature of the spine, had

There can be little doubt that herbs are very potent and powerful. Although, as yet, research is limited on herbs, it is growing and many are shown to have powerful anti-cancer properties without the damaging side-effects of drugs.Here are twenty herbs that just might help your fight against cancer. You will be pleased to know, even after May 1st 2011, you can still have them prescribed and made for you by experts working with CANCERactive. This article was prepared with help from two of the

Herbal stimulants can be defined as herbs that increase the energy of the body by quickening and enlivening the physiological functions. They are herbs that work to enhance and nourish deep energy that is long lasting and life supporting.These roots, leaves and spices do not contain caffeine yet are therapeutically activating to the body systems, providing what some herbalists like to call "the inner tingle." Some of these herbs are particularly helpful for counteracting the sometimes

China is well-known for its alternative medical treatments. Despite being used for thousands of years in the East, it doesn’t prevent the average Westerner viewing such behavior with a sense of wonder and occasional condescension: ‘So, let me get this straight…you drink snake liquor to… cure your arthritis?’While many Chinese people I have met seem to swear by such alternative methods, I wasn’t particularly up for digesting snakes, sea horses and the like. One friend, however, recently asked if

Yoga and acupuncture really can relieve pain, according to new research.Some of the most popular complementary health approaches - including yoga, tai chi and acupuncture - appear to be effective at managing painful conditions.Scientists reviewed clinical trials in the US to come to their conclusions - which could help millions of people whose pain may not be fully relieved by conventional medications.Until now, a lack of evidence around complementary approaches has meant health professionals

Rational Activities vs. Magic Power or Superstition The Neo-Confucian and Taoist scholar Kunio Miura concluded in his research, which happens to be one of a handful of serious studies in the West on the contemporary Chinese Qi Gong practices: “The modern age of science and technology has brought changes in the understanding, description, and evaluation of the practices. Transcendence or immortality is out of the question. Spirit and spirits don't play any significant role any more. Trance