Book recommendation – Spark in the machine

3–4 minutes

I have created a list of recommended books to go alongside barefoot therapist training courses, you can find links to all of the books I suggest here. I love books on therapies, even reading different books about the same treatment, the repetition, different perspectives, and approaches all help to deepen the knowledge and understanding of the work we do and how to better help our clients get the most from their treatments. I aim to write a little about each book that I suggest in the hopes of guiding you to the right book for your study needs.

Todays book is – Spark in the machine – Daniel Keown (link to amazon - https://amzn.to/47zpiL7) also great on audible!

The specific relevant content for this request, if necessary, delimited with characters: This book explains the science behind meridians in an in-depth but easy-to-follow way, following the development of an embryo and how the fascia develops and connects our body systems together, with pathways between the fascia creating the meridians. While this book follows the development of the meridians used in traditional East Asian therapies, it is logical to extend this to the sen lines that we work on in Thai bodywork.

The concept of meridians and their connection to traditional East Asian therapies is Important for all bodyworkers to study. Understanding the intricate development of an embryo and how the fascia plays a crucial role in connecting our body’s systems through pathways that form the meridians is truly fascinating. This book presents this complex topic in an accessible and engaging manner, making it easier for readers to grasp the science behind meridians.

Furthermore, the extension of this knowledge to the sen lines utilized in Thai bodywork adds another layer of depth and relevance to the discussion. Drawing parallels between the development of meridians in traditional East Asian therapies and the application of sen lines in Thai bodywork offers valuable insights into the interconnectedness of these practices.

As readers delve into the content of this book, they will gain a comprehensive understanding of meridians, fascia development, and the broader implications for traditional therapies. The logical extension of these concepts to Thai bodywork provides a holistic view of the subject, enriching the readers’ knowledge and appreciation for the intricate connections within the body.

Overall, this book not only delves into the science of meridians but also bridges the gap between different therapeutic traditions, enriching the readers’ understanding of these ancient practices and their modern applications.

I have found this book so useful that I have read it at least twice and regularly listen to it on Audible, refreshing the knowledge and allowing more layers to sink in. The book gives us a greater understanding of how to translate Eastern teachings and how the science can back up the teachings from Eastern bodywork. The way the development of fascia and connections of fascial planes is described makes it easy to visualize and understand. By understanding the sen and meridians, we can identify blocks in them, understanding where to work so that we can work effectively, releasing or reducing blockages so that energy can flow more freely.

This book is great for bodyworkers, acupuncturists or anyone who is interested deepening their understanding of fascia, meridians and how the connections develop in embryos. For bodyworkers it gives us language and descriptions which we can use to explain how our treatments work and why. The author has experience in both western and eastern medicine, providing him with a great understanding of both approaches to healing as well as some great anecdotes to bring the knowledge in to practical reality.

I am going to work through the list of books that I have recommended, giving you an idea of what each one is about and why I think It is worth a read for all fellow barefoot therapists out there! Each time, if I can, I will add an amazon affiliate link to help you find the book.