Five Elements and Ten Stems: Nan Ching Theory, Diagnostics and Practice

By Kiiko Matsumoto & Stephen Birch
Trade paperback book
ISBN 9780912111254
236 pages

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This is the first attempt in English to describe the basic Nan Jing theories and place them in the clinical context of Keiraku Chiryo or “Japanese meridian therapy.” Although it is rich in theoretical content, it also has useful clinical information. It is a valuable primer for the foundational theories underlying Japanese meridian therapy.

In this essential text, the authors explore concepts from the Su Wen, Ling Shu, and Nan Jing to present ideas that flowered in an age rich with Chinese medical history. They discuss the philosophical and theoretical development of the five-phase system, particularly the relationship of the five phases to the I Ching, Tao Te Ching, and other classical Chinese texts. Correspondences that practitioners can apply to diagnosis and treatment are clearly presented.

The diagnostic section provides a complete and practical discussion of technique, including pulse diagnosis, body type assessment, visual diagnosis, and hara (abdominal) diagnosis. The treatment section describes basic exercises, breathing techniques, treatment principles, and methods drawn from eminent classical texts. Modern treatment protocols are presented in clear, easy-to-use tables. It is one of the best sources of technique currently available, reaching beyond technique to the art of healing.

Publication Status: This is a legacy Paradigm Publications title that is currently out of print. While not scheduled for immediate reprint, reader interest and waitlist requests help inform future printing decisions.

About the Authors:

Kiiko Matsumoto, BS, Tokyo Kasei University. Ms. Matsumoto studied acupuncture at the Japan Central Acupuncture and Moxibustion College of Tokyo. Her additional studies included classical and modern Chinese as well as Sotai, a specific practice of manipulative therapy. Currently, Ms. Matsumoto resides and practices in Boston, Massachusetts, and lectures and teaches worldwide.

Stephen Birch, BA, University of Hull, PhD, Exeter University. Dr. Birch is a graduate of the New England School of Acupuncture (NESA). He undertook private study in Japan with Yoshio Manaka and with Kodo Fukushima. After teaching at NESA for many years, he moved with his family to Amsterdam, where he currently resides and maintains his clinical practice. He lectures and teaches worldwide and is extensively published in the field of acupuncture.