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A GOOD READ: Tai chi, quigong, reiki & some new-age books

Have you ever wondered how you can heal yourself and others by working with energy?
book

Have you ever wondered how you can heal yourself and others by working with energy? If so, you may want to check out some of these great resources that are available at your local library.

A great book to start with is The Path of the Dreamhealer: The Quantum World of Energy Healing by Adam McLeod. McLeod was born with the ability to see energy blockages and illness in a person’s energy field and then help the person heal by manipulating the energy with his mind. In his book, McLeod discusses the field of information, auras, energy exercises and visualizations, and how we can all become powerful healers. Also known as Adam Dreamhealer, McLeod is now a doctor of naturopathic medicine in Vancouver.

Reiki is a healing technique founded in Japan by Mikao Usui in which the therapist activates the body’s natural healing process by channelling universal energy into the patient through touch. The Reiki Bible by Eleanor McKenzie explains the origins of reiki, the three degrees of Reiki, the various hand positions, and so much more. Enjoy the multitude of full-colour photos in this attractive and comprehensive book.

The popular Hindu practice of yoga includes breath control, simple meditation and the adoption of specific postures for health and relaxation. In the DVD Yoga for Beginners, Rodney Yee and Colleen Saidman provide detailed training for the basic yoga poses, tips to overcoming common yoga mistakes, and two complete workouts. If you’re finally ready to experience the incredible benefits of yoga, this DVD is for you.

Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that increases health, wellbeing, vitality and longevity. Chi is a vital force that animates the body and it is believed that using tai chi to circulate this energy throughout the body brings increased balance and health. In , international martial arts champion Tiffany Chen teaches a 60-movement Yang-form practice she learned from her father. This DVD is appropriate for both beginners and advanced students wishing to improve their practice.

Qigong is also an ancient Chinese health care system that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques, and focused intention to cultivate energy and heal the body. Francesco and Daisy Lee Garripoli demonstrate the gentle poses, breathing rhythms, and visualization techniques that enhance the flow of energy throughout the body in the DVD Qigong for Beginners. Also included is a fascinating documentary that reveals the origins of Qigong.

Enjoy learning how to heal with energy with a little help from the Coquitlam Public Library.

--A Good Read is a column by Tri-City librarians that is published on Wednesdays. Heather Hortness works at Coquitlam Public Library.