Purple Cloud Podcast

In this episode we talk to Yan Liu about the long history of the use of poisonous medicine in the Chinese medicine tradition, particularly in the medieval era. We delve into topics such as the similarities and differences in the use of poisons in the Western and Chinese traditions, the use of poisons in alchemical practices and the role it played in religious healing practices. The book is open source, and available for download at : https://uw.manifoldapp.org/projects/healing-with-poisons

In this episode we talk to Tsai Ling-yi and Chen Po-Hsun, two Taiwanese Chinese medical doctors and academics in the field of Chinese medical history. We discuss how they have simultaneously navigated the Chinese and Western medical worlds, and discuss how the Chinese medicine exists in Taiwan within and outside of the official system. We also talk about the training of Chinese medicine in Taiwan, and similarities and differences with Mainland China and the West.

In this episode we talk again to Cheng Feng, this time about musical healing in the Chinese medical and Daoist traditions. We discuss how music can be used to both heal and harm, and the benefits of chanting the Dao De Jing. We also delve into how the 5 tones outlined in the Huang Di Nei Jing relate to the 5 phases, and how to use them in the clinic to help patients with a variety of conditions. For those interested in attending Cheng Feng’s forthcoming online seminar on the subject, more information is available at: https://pt.globalbranches.com/bookings-checkout/daoist-music-healing?fbclid=IwAR0Wk5MxWAWxDYQm_JdmyXTp68rrRa5zkgo-sF_GFz78zYLhMlo1rdOEElY

Join Food Therapy and Chinese Medicine specialist, Zoey Gong, as she discusses the role of cooling foods, damp constitutions, fad diets, medicinal dumplings, and picking a healthy soy sauce in a fascinating exploration of Chinese medical dietetics.

In this episode we talk to James Flowers, practitioner of Chinese Medicine, Research Fellow at Kyung Hee University and PhD from Johns Hopkins University, about his journey that has taken him from Australia to live in Korea, China and the USA. We discuss in depth the practice of traditional East Asian medicine in Korea, touching on why integrative medicine is rarely seen there and why Shen 神 (Spirit) is such an important factor in health and healing. We also delve into how Korea dealt with the Covid pandemic, the influence of Korea on the development of Japanese Kampo medicine and some misunderstandings of Confucianism and its relationship to East Asian medical traditions.

In this episode we talk to Tyler Rowe, practitioner of Chinese medicine, martial arts and specialist in the practical application of classical Chinese geomancy and astronomy texts. We explore the relationship between climate and illness, and dive deeply into the often poorly understood Wuyun Liuqi (Five Movements and Six Qi) system from the Huangdi Neijing, discussing its history and practical usage in clinic. We also delve into how applications of the system, and Chinese medical theory in general, might differ in the Southern hemisphere, and possible relationships between the system and the current Covid-19 pandemic.

In this episode we interview Mattias Daly about his most recent translation for Purple Cloud Press, The Heart Treasure of Taijiquan by Ren Gang. Written for the modern reader, this book thoroughly illuminates the authentic inner teachings of Yang family taijiquan. From detailing contemporary misunderstandings of taijiquan and its place in Chinese culture, to explaining the correct meanings of fundamental concepts; and from elucidating classic writings, to recording an extensive Q&A with students, The Heart Treasure of Taijiquan enables the reader to understand the essence of this path. Master Ren Gang of Shanghai is a true inheritor of Yang style taijiquan. The translator, Mattias Daly, is a twenty-year student of Chinese martial arts, spiritual practices, and traditional healthcare. In order to ensure a highly faithful translation, he made numerous journeys to Shanghaito discuss the complexities of taijiquan philosophy with Master Ren and personally experience the training methods and martial applications he describes.

In this episode we interview Marta Hanson, Associate Professor of the History of Medicine at Johns Hopkins University about the concept of medical bilingualism and what it means for practitioners of Chinese medicine. We also delve into the history of epidemics in China, differences and similarities in responses between SARS and Covid-19, as well as her work on the influence of Chinese medicine in 17th century Europe and issues of translation between languages.

Mattias Daly and Dr. Ilia Mozias discuss the alchemical teachings of Lu Xixing, a Confucian who learned from Daoist immortals. They explore Taoist elements in martial arts novels and alchemy practices, the transition of a Taoist figure to Buddhism, ancient practices and traditions within Taoism, the power of emotions for personal growth, and the unique influence of a figure in Chinese culture.

n this episode we talk to Prof. Volker Scheid, academic and clinical practitioner of Chinese medicine. We delve into the Covid-19 pandemic, the various ways it has been approached by practitioners of Chinese medicine and what it means for the Chinese medicine global community as a whole. We also discuss the ideas of fire and desire as explored by Chinese medicine physicians such as Zhu Danxi. Volker's blog posts can be read at: https://www.volkerscheid.net