Keys to a Vibrantly Healthy, Long LIfe

Keys to a Vibrantly Healthy, Long Life is a highly useful and comprehensive book on Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, and other approaches to health and healing that complement these treatment forms. Written by Debra Gaffney, a busy, practicing Acupuncture Physician, it provides in-depth information on a number of modalities, yet does so in clear, easy to understand language that makes the book as engaging as it is informative.

Dr. Gaffney deftly lays out a clear path for dealing with health challenges, improving already good health, and enhancing vitality. While the material is anchored by her substantial experience with acupuncture, she goes far beyond that one approach because her medical practice encompasses a spectrum of healing forms, all of which are defined, described, and thoroughly discussed in this book. The reader is treated to both an in-depth explanation of the hows and whys of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, and a very holistic and all-encompassing view of practical, applicable information on a variety of health concerns and treatments.

Among the topics that are thoroughly covered in the book are:
Acupuncture – from needling and related practices such as cupping, gua sha and moxibustion to leading edge discoveries in electro-acupuncture
Nutrition – including explanations of food components, elements of Oriental nutrition, the value of nutritional supplements, and ailment-specific foods
Herbal medicine – how it works, why it works, and what herbs are frequently used in treating specific conditions Homeopathics – what they are, how they work, and when they are most effective
Allopathic (prescription) drugs and their place in healing
Lifestyle products like shampoo, toothpaste, cosmetics that can have a profound affect, not only on appearance but also on health
Stretching, prayer & meditation, breathing and other practices that have benefits far beyond the obvious
There is also a section containing an extensive list of physical ailments – from allergies to thyroid conditions – and descriptions of how they have been successfully addressed with acupuncture.

One of the more unique aspects of the book is the way Dr. Gaffney puts the many healing approaches and health resources into context, explaining how a variety of different approaches might be included in an overall health plan. She describes how her practice integrates a range of modalities so readers have a sense of what they might look for when considering medical help and evaluating a prospective practitioner’s approach and services.

The book covers a great deal of ground, and goes satisfyingly deep in its explorations. It is information-rich and well grounded in science as well as experience. Case histories and anecdotes add life, color and dimension to these discussions of alternative approaches to healing and health care. In many ways, this volume might best be considered a single-volume encyclopedia rather than simply a book.

Keys to a Vibrantly Healthy, Long Life is an easy-to-use reference that should be considered a foundation piece to any health library. It is a goldmine of information and insights that are found in only the most extensive of book collections.