A sourcebook in Chinese longevity /

Ancient Chinese traditions relating to health and medicine, such as Qigong and Tai Chi, are increasingly popular in Western society, but very few primary texts discussing them have been translated into English. Kohn (emer., Boston Univ.) is a world-renowned Daoism specialist. Having authored many other books and scholarly articles on Daoism, Eastern mysticism, and the Chinese view of health and the body, she is well qualified to compile this guide. The book comprises 13 chapters on topics such as "Healing Exercises" and "Eating for Long Life." Weaving historical and cultural observations with her own translations of primary texts, the author offers comprehensive guidelines for healthful aging. Primary sources cover the main periods of the "longevity tradition" from the fourth century BCE to the late Qing period (221-206 BCE), when special techniques for women were developed. Valuable both for research in Chinese traditions of longevity and as a practical guide to healthful living. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All levels/libraries. J. Saxton Bastyr University