Pain-Free Joints: 46 Simple Qigong Movements for Arthritis Healing and Prevention

Pain-Free Joints: 46 Simple Qigong Movements for Arthritis Health and Prevention by Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming offers information and exercises to help treat arthritis. The book acknowledges that both Western medicine and Eastern medicine can be helpful, and suggests practical, clear, symptom-relieving steps for anyone suffering from arthritis pain. The book is brief, well organized, and very clear, featuring exercises that almost anyone can do. Yang discusses massage, acupuncture, and cavity presses, and explains how each can be used to improve the flow of qi, the natural energy that circulates throughout the universe and also through the body. The book includes an informative and interesting comparison of Western and Eastern healing philosophy, focusing on treatment versus prevention. It does not assume that one is right while the other is wrong, but instead suggests that both can be used together to achieve overall good health. Though the concepts being explained are quite complex, the book is very easy to understand. Qigong, or the study of qi, is central to the lessons, as is learning to affect how qi moves through the body. The author explains that "traditional Chinese physicians believe that since the body's cells are alive, as long as there is a proper supply of qi, the physical damage can be repaired or even completely rebuilt." The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the theory behind the suggested exercises and the need to make them part of a lifelong practice. There is just enough basic information to get started exploring this path to healing. There are also references for further study, and the book concludes with a very helpful glossary of Chinese terms. Abundant photographs demonstrate the recommended exercises, depicting a model performing each one. Despite being still, black-and-white forms, these images do a remarkable job of illustrating how to move through each activity. The accompanying descriptions are clear and easy to follow, with instructions on how to move the body through the exercise, how to breathe with the movement, and recommendations for the number of repetitions needed to be effective. Those who suffer from arthritis know that it can feel like an endless cycle of pain with little hope for improvement. What is perhaps most remarkable about Pain-Free Joints is that it offers hope for more than just pain management. Though the author warns that these exercises will take diligence and patience, with continued practice sufferers may see improvement, or even a reversal of their condition.--Catherine Thureson "Foreword Reviews, June 12, 2017 "

If pain-free joints are the goal, qigong movements can help According to the Centers for Disease Control, over fifty million Americans struggle with doctor-diagnosed arthritis. Obesity and inactivity are proven aggravating factors, limiting mobility and making everyday activities difficult and painful. For many, arthritis progresses to the point where they will have to manage pain for years to come. Some will have little choice but to rely on prescription medication. But for the millions of others with joint pain, there is hope. By committing to a series of simple exercises, we can remain loose and flexible. We can prevent and heal injuries to maintain flexible, healthy joints. Motion is the key, and in this book Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming will get you moving. You will regain natural, pain-free motion, and suppleness with qigong, a timeless Chinese art that promotes healing, flexibility, and balance. The gentle, meditative movements emphasize proper motion in coordination with breath, making qigong the right choice for preventing, treating, and even reversing arthritis. This book presents 46 movements to help you loosen, stretch, strengthen, heal, and maintain comfortable, flexible joints for a lifetime. You will learn what qigong is and why it is a good choice for treating arthritis and maintaining healthy joints *4 gentle torso-loosening movements*9 hand massage movements and techniques*6 massage methods for immediate relief*3 qigong movements for neck, spine, and waist*7 qigong movements for fingers, hands, and wrists*8 qigong movements for elbows and shoulders*4 qigong movements for toes and ankles*5 qigong movements for hips and knees Many people who live with joint pain rely on acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, and even surgery. By committing to a simple qigong practice, you can begin to take care of your own joints, with less reliance on others.