The Extraordinary Fu

The six extraordinary fu, the brain, marrow, bones, mai, gallbladder and uterus, are a set of remarkable systems within the body which can act as ordinary fu but which also have the ability to store essences.

The extraordinary fu represent a special link with the origin because these six organs or functions reflect the complex relationships which are established between the essences when a new life is engendered. They enable us to connect with a level in the body which is more fundamental and more primitive than that encompassed by the ordinary zang and fu. The extraordinary fu ensure the continuity of life as it moves with and through the essences which are stored within them.

The vast knowledge of classical texts and medical philosophy possessed by the authors make this a rich and useful book for the student and practitioner eager to understand the energetic dynamics of the body in more depth. Each of the six systems is examined in detail, and an introductory section provides etymological insights to give the reader a thorough grounding in the concept of 'extraordinary'.

This is an inspiring book, and one which addresses an area of Chinese medicine too rarely mentioned. The authors' insights and perceptions are always aimed at awakening our sensitivity to the profound mystery of an individual's vitality, and thereby bringing us closer to what is extraordinary, surprising and wonderful about life itself.

Elisabeth Rochat de la Vallée: The extraordinary fu manifest the way in which the essences create one's life and body (brain, bone and marrow), the possibility of expressing this life for oneself through time (the mai), and finally in the making of a new life through sexuality and fertility (gallbladder and bao). They trace and guide the essences from beginning to end, passing on through the continuation given by creating other lives. They really are extraordinary, and assure the constancy and continuity of life.