R – A Complete Book of Chinese Health Balls

By Jodi Lee
Originally Published 2002
(see author/copyright info below)

Title: The Complete Book of Chinese Health Balls
Author: Ab Williams
Publisher: Binkey Kok Publications
Pages: 112 (incl. back matter and journaling area
ISBN: 90-74597-28-9
Release/Copyright: © 1997 Binkey Kok Publications

This little book is an amazing collection of history, types, sizes and methods of use for Chinese Health Balls. I’m quite impressed with the author’s knowledge of the subject, and the extensive history is a pleasure to read. There is so much more here than the little booklet that comes with most sets, that I believe this book should be standard issue from now on!

Quote from page: 45; para. 2 & 3

“No doubt, you might be confused about which type you should buy. If your intent for using Chinese Health Balls is primarily therapeutic, the metal balls are the most suitable choice. Some of these chime when they move, and while many people like this feature, if you are sensitive to sound, consider whether or not you want to hear this chiming while you practice. The metal and cloisonne balls that are commonly found in shops also have different designs, which may influence your choice.

“The size and weight of the balls play an important role in choosing the right set of health balls. Generally, the larger and heavier they are, the stronger the effect on the acupuncture points and reflex zones. However, it is advisable to start with small balls. As you become more comfortable with using them, you can get a larger size, and even practice with three or four balls at a time (snip page information).”

The book is well illustrated with line drawings and photos, but I’m more impressed with the line drawings/diagrams. Everything from energy flow in the body to reflexology, to positions for the balls themselves are here; clearly and understandably represented so one hardly needs the extra text in the chapters. But, the extra reading is a pleasant browse, and anyone interested in the effects these balls have will find this book a worthwhile investment.

The exercises in the book are quite in depth, making it much more practical a purchase for the beginner, than simply settling with the insert in the package. For those that would like to test an exercise out before purchasing a book, here’s another brief look at the book:

Quote from page: 76; para. 2

“Take one ball in the palm of your right hand, and press it against a place on the right side of your face, keeping your hand outstretched. For example, start with your cheek. Your fingers are not used in this exercise. Exert enough pressure so that the ball stays in place. Shut your eyes, and then massage every part of the right side of your face with light, rotating movements. In this way discover your face without leaving out any areas, taking particular care around the eyes. Change hands for the other half of your face. The next logical step is to massage the neck. Don’t be alarmed if massaging the jaw and neck area leads to increased production of saliva. This massage can be carried out on every accessible part of the body.”

Let me tell you – this was an utterly, nearly spiritual experience, and has become my favorite exercise!
–
Jodi Lee – is a freelance writer/editor living in southern Manitoba, Canada.
© 2002 – present All Rights Reserved; Republish notice excluded.

This article can be republished elsewhere in its entirety so long as the author is notified (see contact information), a link is provided to the website, and this notice is left intact.

R – The Herbal Medicine Maker’s Handbook

By Jodi Lee
Originally Published 2002
(see author/copyright info below)

Author: James Green
Publisher: Crossing Press
Pages: 384
ISBN: 0-89594-990-3
Release/Copyright: © 2000 James Green

On a regular basis, I am checking this book to find remedies for the rashes, scrapes and bruises that children often get when living in the country. This is one of the many books sent to me for review that I will cherish always, as a constant companion rather than just pages between a cover.

James Green has quite obviously spent a great deal of his life in the study of herbalism – not only the often complicated blending and testing of various remedies, but also in the ground work – the growing of the herbs needed to produce the final product.

The book he has chosen to bring forth is an amazing combination of practices both modern and past, including the harvesting of, drying of and wildcrafting of many native North American herbs. But he doesn’t stop there, he goes on to detail the kitchen items the hopeful herbalist will need, and those that are nice, but not entirely necessary. Juicers, blenders, mortars and pestles – even the odd product is narrowed down to yes or no in the needful department. Finally – the storage of herbs, salves, oils and more are discussed (which I was particularly interested in!)

Honestly – my only complaint with this book is the size. It’s quite large, and as it’s paperback, it’s difficult to keep in position when reading and taking notes, or working with the herbs etc. That doesn’t seem like much of a complaint though does it? *grin*

Quote from Prologue:

“The ever-engaging green-melodies of herbal medicine-making are sung by the seductive voices of your neighboring leaves, roots, barks, rhizomes, flowers, and seeds, while the rhythm you move to is composed entirely within yourself, by the cadence of your creative enjoyment. You’ll find yourself swinging to the pleasures of simple fun, personal independence, and a renewed connection with Earth’s natural beauty an perpetual abundance. And that’s feelin’ good, which is the essence of health. The making is the taking of herbal medicine.”

Once again, I am delighted to present this book to my readers. As the Earth renews her life in green perhaps we all can take a moment and reflect on her offerings of plant and tree, and the possibilities they carry inside.

‘Til next time, be blessed with health and warm weather!
–
Jodi Lee – is a freelance writer/editor living in southern Manitoba, Canada.
© 2002 – present All Rights Reserved; Republish notice excluded.

This article can be republished elsewhere in its entirety so long as the author is notified (see contact information), a link is provided to the website, and this notice is left intact.