#65 Nigel Dawes on Japanese Herbal Medicine, Hara Diagnosis, and Classical Chinese Influence

Pacific Rim College Radio

Kampo is Japanese herbal medicine influenced by the classical Chinese tradition. In this episode, renowned Kampo and Shiatsu practitioner Nigel Dawes and I discuss all things related to its practice and so much more.

Nigel began studying Kampo in Japan forty years ago and has been practicing and teaching ever since. He is the founder of the London College of Shiatsu and NY Kampo Institute, the latter of which he still runs today. His most recent book published in 2020 by Singing Dragon is entitled Fukushin and Kampo and discusses the topics of abdominal diagnosis and herbal medicine.

Here we talk at length about the culture of traditional Japanese medicine and the influences of Han Dynasty Chinese classical texts such as the Shang Han Lun. We also explore both the energetic and physical aspects of harashin and fukushin abdominal diagnosis, compare the Japanese styles of herbal medicine and acupuncture practice to those of China, and touch upon the topic of Shiatsu. Nigel also narrates some of his personal journey living and studying in Japan and learning in hospitals in Beijing.

For the enthusiast of Asian medicine, this is a fascinating interview of unique styles, including their modern-day practice and their roots.

Please enjoy this episode of Pacific Rim College Radio with Nigel Dawes.
Episode Links:

KampoHerbology.com

Fukushin and Kampoby Nigel Dawes

Learning Links:

School of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine at PRC

Online Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine courses at PRCOnline

Student Clinic at PRC