Authoritative books on complementary and alternative health, Tai Chi, Qigong and ancient wisdom traditions for health, wellbeing, and professional and personal development.
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Drawn from two of the most important ancient texts on the subject, the Natya Shastra and the Abhinaya Darpana, this attractive set of user-friendly cards shows the 52 fundamental hand mudras used in Indian dance and theatre. These gestures provide the basis for an entire language of hand articulation. Each card presents a full-colour image of the mudra with Sanskrit name, transliteration and English translation, as well as concise information on origins and applications. The cards are arranged in the traditional order with 28 single-hand and 24 joined-hand gestures, as described in the Abhinaya Darpana. From storytelling to representations of human emotion to spiritual symbolism, hand mudras are one of the most potent and expressive features of Classical Indian Dance.
This card set will enrich the practice of students and teachers of Classical Indian Dance and theatre, and will be invaluable to anyone interested in Indian mudras.
Keywords: Indian temple dance, mudras
Chair yoga is a revolutionary concept designed to make the numerous benefits of classical yoga available to a wider range of physical abilities. This step-by-step program can be practiced by virtually anyone, anywhere, in any chair, to stimulate physical and mental well-being.
The DVD's two 40-minute sequences contain easy-to-master exercises that have been specially developed for people without the range of movement necessary for mat work. The exercises provide a gentle approach, whilst still retaining the numerous physical and mental benefits of classical yoga. The clear voiceover instructions and visual onscreen demonstrations guide the viewer through the routines, which can be carried out safely without any previous knowledge or yoga expertise.
This DVD can be used alone or in groups and will be popular with anyone wanting to experience the health benefits of an easy, versatile form of yoga, particularly older people, people rehabilitating from illness or injury and those with physical disabilities, as well as the professionals who support them.
Keywords: adults, bodywork, cerebral palsy, complementary therapies, disability, energy work, health care, massage, movement, occupational therapy, older people, yoga
Hand mudras have been used for centuries in yogic traditions to promote health and wellbeing, and they are considered valuable tools on the path of spiritual awakening.
This card set provides 72 of the most important hand mudras used in yoga. The gestures presented support mental and spiritual development, and have a wide range of health benefits. Each card presents a full-colour image of the mudra with the Sanskrit name, transliteration and English translation. The back of each card includes concise information on technique and applications as well as the physical, energetic and spiritual benefits of the mudra. The accompanying booklet contains background information on the mudras, how to practice them at home, and details on how each of the 72 mudras can be used to address a variety of common health complaints.
This card set will enrich the practice of students and teachers of yoga, and will be of interest to anyone looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of hand mudras.
Keywords: Indian temple dance, mudras, yoga
Based on Five Elements theory, this practical, fully illustrated guide to performing facial enhancement acupuncture (also known as cosmetic acupuncture, facial revitalisation or facial rejuvenation acupuncture) shows in detail the acupuncture points, techniques and equipment used in this procedure. Facial enhancement acupuncture targets points and muscles of the face in order to improve the elasticity of the skin and general overall appearance, as well as addressing constitutional points on the legs, arms and body to balance and harmonise the inner elements. The author clearly explains the rationale behind the needling of each face and neck point, which are shown in colour illustrations. He also discusses the advantages of acupuncture over surgical intervention in dealing with wrinkles and sagging jaw lines, and a chapter is included on discussing treatment with prospective patients, follow up and after care.
As well as significantly improving the cosmetic appearance, facial acupuncture also has a strong whole body effect on the health and wellbeing of the person treated, and has a long and distinguished history in Chinese medicine. The book is the perfect introduction for acupuncturists and acupuncture students who want to learn how to incorporate this alternative to surgical procedures into their practice.
Keywords: acupuncture, Chinese medicine, complementary medicine, complementary therapies, five elements, meridians, traditional Chinese medicine
For thousands of years fragrance has been used, across many varied cultures, for altering mental and emotional states, and as part of spiritual practice. This book explores the impact of fragrance on the psyche from biological, anthropological, perfumery and aromatherapy viewpoints.
Beginning with an exploration of our olfactory system and a discussion of the language of odour, the book examines the ways in which fragrance can influence our perceptions and experiences. It introduces us to a broad range of fragrance types – woody, resinous, spicy, herbaceous, agrestic, floral and citrus, as well as the attars that form part of Unani Tibb medicine. Traditional and contemporary uses and the mood-enhancing properties of fragrance types are presented. The book then provides an overview of the theoretical and philosophical frameworks that have been used to analyse how and why we choose fragrance. Finally readers are given guidance on how to cultivate their olfactory palate, which reveals a new dimension in the use of fragrance to enhance wellbeing.
This book offers a wealth of knowledge on plant aromatics and the powerful influence of fragrance on wellbeing. It will be of particular interest to aromatherapists, perfumers, psychotherapists, ethnobotanists and anthropologists.
Keyword: aromatherapy
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