DEEPENING YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH THE WU SHEN

 

As I've studied the Wu Shen over the years, I've stumbled on many books and videos. I believe this is a life-long journey. The more I learn, the more I realize there's much more. Exploring concepts, I ask questions. 

Allow yourself to ask, stop, consider your question and look up a satisfying answer. Then, give yourself time to reflect and integrate. 

BOOKS

This was the first book I stumbled upon containing invaluable information, and it's an pleasant read. The descriptions of each of the Wu Shen are almost poetic. 

Dechar, Lorie Eve. Five Spirits: Alchemical Acupuncture for Psychological and Spiritual Healing, Lantern Publishing and Media, 2021

Again, a pleasant read. Each of the Wu Shen is described by function: Physical, Energetic, and Spiritual. 

Exercises to cultivate each of the Spirits are offered. These include movement, breathing, and reflection. 

Nosco, Stephanie, Follow your Tao: A Simple Guide to Banking Your Energy for Inner Harmony. Headline Publishing Group, 2024

Another book by Lorie Eve Dechar along with Benjamin Fox. The elements are explored regarding their place in Inner Alchemy work. Knowing the association of the elements with the Wu Shen brings it all together. 

Mention is made of Kunlun Mountain and Xi Wang Mu, Queen Mother of the Western Paradise. 

The role of archetypes are explored. And healing modalities including acupoints and essential oils are discussed. 

Dechar, Lori Eve and Fox, Benjamin. The Alchemy of Inner Work: A Guide for Turning Illness & Suffering into True Health & Well Being, Weiser Books, 2021. 

While this book addresses Chinese Medicine along with Yoga, the Wu Shen are explored as they accompany the elements and the seasons. 

Raye's approach is holistic, including diet, movement, breath-work and meditation. 

Raye, Jennifer. Wisdom of the Earth, Wisdom of the Body: a Seasonal Guide to Chinese Medicine and Yoga for Balance and Vitality, Shamble Publications, Inc. 2025

Very much a clinical text book, I was able to glean information about the elements and the Wu Shen. 

Each of the Spirits are referenced throughout the book as the psyche is explored. 

I use this as a reference book. It's not a light read. 

Maciocia, Giovanni. The Psyche in Chinese Medicine: Treat ment of Emotional and Mental Disharmonies with Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs. Churchill Livingston Elsevier, 2009. 

There are also numerous videos available. Some are very basic, some explore a bit more, quenching my appetite to learn. 

Dr. Richard Lai is an acupuncturist. Watching his videos I get the impression that he's teaching as a seeker, a learner. I appreciate that. 

Lorie Eve Dechar has a number of videos available on YouTube. 

I hope I've planted some seeds that may grow and blossom into a deeper understanding of your Self as you navigate the world of the Five Spirits.

May you be happy, healthy and always curious,

Brian