Lessons from the yokojun
Item
Title
Lessons from the yokojun
Description
NAJOM (2022), Michaelsen, E.
Journal Publication
Date
Language
English
Japanese
Author(s)
Abstract
The Yokojun is a Tokugawa-era text on wellness written by Ekiken Kaibara (1630-1714), a samurai trained in science and medicine. The title means "Lessons on self-care." Among texts about healthcare, it is unique in two regards: it is public-facing, and it focuses on maintaining wellness rather than curing disease. As such, a review seemed fitting for this issue of NAJOM. The practice of allopathy is focused on pathology. Acupuncturists are less likely to view the body through that lens exclusively, though we are still biased towards fixing problems. Ekiken's text provides a lens for wellness that begins with the patient at home, reframing both our advice for patients and the business model that defines our practices.
volume
28
issue
84
Abbreviated Journal Title
NAJOM
page start
3
page end
4