What is qi, and what are the jingmai? How did the ancients view the practice of acupuncture, and how does that differ from our ideas about acupuncture today?

This groundbreaking work, with contributions from the leading voices in the field, explores these questions through historical insights, scholarly research, and practical exercises, bridging ancient perspectives and modern understanding. With an international panel of authors including Stephen Birch (Netherlands), Miguel Angel Cabrer Mir and Manuel Rodriguez Cuadras (Spain), and essays from Dianne Sommers (Netherlands), Mark Bovey (UK), Chip Chace and Dan Bensky (USA), the book provides insights from some of the most experienced practitioners in the acupuncture world. The foreword by renowned translator and author Elisabeth Rochat de la Vallée, underscores the significance of qi and the jingmai for acupuncture, herbal medicine, and beyond.

Drawing from decades of clinical practice, scholarly research, and historical texts, the authors unravel the history, development, and practical applications of these central concepts. Highlights include detailed discussion on:

• The role of qi in the body-mind and our actions.
• The arrival of qi (deqi).
• The development of the practitioner.
• Practical exercises to enhance inner skills.

Restoring Order bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary practice, offering an essential resource for students, seasoned professionals, and enthusiasts of qi-related arts and disciplines. Whether delving into qi for the first time or seeking to deepen your understanding, Restoring Order will empower you to transform your practice and open the door to new levels of insight and skill.

“We wish there were more books like this. A book that goes deeply into the very substance of Chinese medicine, remaining not only readable but enjoyable. A dialogue between this classical Chinese medicine and Western medicine can help to build the medicine of the future. This book is one of the foundations of such an appealing and needed project.”
— Elisabeth Rochat de la Vallée, Paris

“An incredible resource for the investigation of qi and its ramifications right from ancient China through until the present. Serious scholarship that is never dry; each chapter explores a facet of our medicine that can be traced back to the root: qi.”
— Steven Clavey, Melbourne

“If you are an acupuncture practitioner or a teacher, this book is a must-read. It will turn acupuncture education upside down—from Head-based to Heart-Mind based.”
— John Hicks, Reading