Exercise Prescription in Sui China (581–618 CE)

In a highly innovative medical endeavour initiated by Emperor Yang of the Sui dynasty (r. 604–618 CE), as part of his radical medical reforms, therapeutic exercises, known as daoyin, were brought together in a medical text entitled Zhubing yuanhou lun諸病源候論 (Treatise on the Origins and Symptoms of Medical Disorders). Essentially a nosological text, Zhubing yuanhou lun gives descriptions of 1739 diseases under 71 categories. It also details approximately 200 different daoyin exercises for treating various diseases. The inclusion of daoyin in this state-sponsored text created a more formal and standardised approach to the teaching and learning of these exercises and facilitated their prescription by doctors to their patients.Exercise Prescription in Sui China (581–618 CE) gives a complete translation by Dr. Dolly Yang of the daoyin exercises in Zhubing yuanhou lun with 250 illustrations by Mugen Chiang, transforming the written descriptions into visual guides for readers to explore and practise. With the original Chinese text alongside an English translation, this book will assist those seeking to immerse themselves in these ancient therapeutic exercises, previously accessible only to a Chinese readership, enabling a wider readership to unlock long-hidden treasures and discover their transformative potential. This translation of the entirety of the therapeutic remedies makes an excellent reference work not only for medical historians, but for contemporary practitioners of Chinese medicine, and could be the foundation for a number of therapeutic programmes.—Michael Stanley-BakerAssistant Professor, Nanyang Technological University, SingaporeWell-illustrated throughout, this book offers a new perspective on the functioning of the human body as an integrated system of complex energy structures and inspires toward applying a variety of healing exercises (daoyin) to alleviate conditions. Highly impactful. A must-read for anyone concerned with medieval Asian culture, traditional Chinese medicine, and healing in general.—Livia KohnBoston University, Three Pines PressThe early 7th century Zhubing yuanhou lun (Treatise on the Origins and Symptoms of Medical Disorders) is one of the most complete texts on the treatment of a wide range of symptoms and diseases through the practice of daoyin (the main precursor term to today’s qigong). Dolly Yang has performed an enormously valuable service in her excellent translation of this work.—Peter DeadmanAuthor of Live Well Live Long and Qigong: Cultivation of Body, Breath and Mind Read more