Tai Chi for Depression: A 10-Week Program to Empower Yourself and Beat Depression

by Aihan Kuhn C.M.D DIPL. OBT.

Overview

This book is designed to help readers understand depression and make positive changes to overcome it. Dr. Aihan Kuhn teaches a unique tai chi form that combines elements of Chen and Yang styles as well as qigong and meditation. The form is easy to learn, easy to remember, and easy to practice. Dr. Kuhn’s multidisciplinary approach to mental health also focuses on positive thought, a healthy diet, and self-confidence.

Dr. Kuhn instructs readers on a unique tai chi form that is perfect for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. The circular movements create better energy flow in the body. The martial character empowers the mind, strengthens the body, improves stamina, and increases self-esteem. Slow, symmetrical movements promote balance and calm.

This book features:

• Detailed instructions and photos describing Dr. Kuhn’s 16-step tai chi form
• Personal reflections on using tai chi to overcome depression
• A 10-week plan to help readers begin their journey to wellness

With this book you will:

• Learn about the clinical features of depression
• Learn Dr. Kuhn’s 16-step tai chi form
• Discover the psychological, emotional, and spiritual benefits of tai chi
• Begin a holistic approach to mental health

“When I was just starting out as a doctor, my focus was mainly on treating disease,” Dr. Kuhn writes. “Now my focus is on teaching people how to prevent disease and treating patients in the early stages of their illness so they can avoid additional problems.”

In many ways, Tai Chi for Depression represents the culmination of her life’s work.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781594395208
Publisher:	YMAA Publication Center
Publication date:	06/01/2017
Pages:	176
Product dimensions:	7.20(w) x 9.30(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Aihan Kuhn, C.M.D., is a Chinese medical doctor trained in both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She is a graduate of the Hunan Medical University, Changsha China. In China, Dr. Kuhn practiced OB/GYN in Chinese hospitals (1983-1988), studied Tai Chi and Chi Kung (since 1978) and returns each year to advance her training in both Traditional Chinese Medicine and martial arts.

Dr. Kuhn is the director and owner of the Chinese Medicine for Health Clinic in Holliston Massachusetts. President and founder of the non-profit Tai Chi & Qigong Healing Institute which promotes natural energy healing and research for treating incurable diseases with Qigong.

Dr. Kuhn treats patients with various methods of TCM and Qigong at her Massachusetts clinic, lectures to both healthcare professionals and the general public, and offers Qigong and Tai Chi classes at her Holliston school.

Aihan Kuhn resides with her family in Sarasota, Florida.

Table of Contents

Preface xiii

Healing Is possible xv

Early Signs to Watch for to Prevent Depression xvii

Part 1 Understanding Depression and Emotional Imbalance 2

My Own Experience 4

The Importance of Treating Depression 6

Understanding Depression in Chinese Medical Theory 7

Disease and Healing in TCM 7

Yin-Yang and Five-Elements Theories 8

Yin-Yang Theory in Healing 9

The Causes of Disharmony or Imbalance 10

External Causes 12

Other Causes 13

The Nature of the Mind in Chinese Culture and Chinese Medicine 13

Part 2 Healing Depression the natural way 16

Nine Keys to Happiness 16

Ten Tips for Improving Stress Management 23

A Preventive Approach 27

50/50 Theory 28

Treating Depression with Chinese Medicine 29

Depression in Chinese Medicine 29

Healing with Chinese Herbal Medicine 30

Healing with Acupuncture and Tui Ma (Chinese Massage) 32

Healing with Diet 32

Yin and Yang Foods 35

Other Eastern Healing Modalities 39

Learning 39

Balanced Lifestyle 39

Daoist Study and Practice 40

Part 3 Taiji and Qigong 46

What Is Taiji? 46

Taiji Is Not Just for Senior Citizens-It is for Everyone 50

Healing Aspects of Taiji for Depression 51

Keys to Successful Taiji Practice 53

Taiji Sixteen-Step Form for Healing and Preventing Depression 55

How Taiji Helps with Depression 56

The Functions of the Brain Hemispheres 60

Fundamental Principles of Taiji Practice 63

State of Mind and Physical Postures for Taiji 63

Taiji Practice Requirements 69

Taiji Mental Requirements 72

Part 4 Planning Your Healing Journey 74

Ten-Week Plan to Help You Start 74

Taiji Practice (Taiji Sixteen-Step Form) 87

Warm-Up Exercise 87

Getting the Most out of Your Practice 94

Step-by-Step Learning 96

Cooling Down 128

Your Success 132

Testimonials 135

My Path to Natural Medicine 139

Acknowledgments 143

About the Author 145

Index 149