8 Steps to Living a Long Life - by Peter Newton (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A guide to healthy and happy longevity based on the wisdom of ancient Chinese sages

- Shares an eight-step process based on the life-prolonging and health-enhancing methodology of the Earth Path of Taoism

- Includes practices focused on posture, breathing, mental health, energy flow, and meditation, as well as eight mind-body Daoyin longevity exercises, complete with illustrated instructions

- Explores what causes premature aging and how to avoid it, along with longevity secrets of the legendary Eight Immortals

ACCORDING TO THE ANCIENT CHINESE SAGES, the way to achieve health, longevity, and enlightenment starts with the Earth Path of Taoism, which advises us to nurture the body, calm the mind, and stir the spirit.

In this practical guide, Sifu Peter Newton explains the principles and practices of the path and provides an easy-to-follow eight-step process to integrate this longevity wisdom into daily life. Drawing from tai chi and qigong, he explores how to avoid premature aging, highlights body posture as well as a flexible outlook on life, and looks at profound breathing. As we work with the rhythms of yin and yang in our bodies and lives, we discover the benefits of meditation and the practice of "stirring the shen"--the notion of circulating primordial shen, the root of life. Last but not least, eight clearly explained mind-body Daoyin longevity exercises show how to redirect and refine qi, the internal energy of the body.

Interwoven with longevity pearls of wisdom, this illustrated guide shows that regardless of physical ability or age, the Taoist Earth Path is accessible to everyone. Without doubt, we all share the ability to live a long and healthy life.

Review Quotes

"As a retired doctor of psychotherapy I am particularly interested in the psychological and physical impact this book will offer, ensuring good health and longevity. In addition to psychology, much of my professional career has been as a singer and singing teacher. The breathing techniques Peter teaches in this book are first-class for people who may suffer from a weakness in their breathing, typically caused by being physically blocked through poor deportment. These techniques will unlock, repair, and regulate the whole respiratory function. I suffer from osteoarthritis and myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), an incurable chronic disease, and Peter's teachings have enabled me to function far more positively and productively than otherwise would have been possible.

In summary, I recommend this book for any age or state of health, as one that provides gentle and easy movements, very clearly explained, to maintain good health and a sense of well-being; to aid healing or to restore good health after illness; to improve living where full physical restoration may not be possible; or merely to work toward a long and healthy life."-- "CHRISTINE SIMONS, M.D., DProf, DipPsych, Chartered Fellow CIPD"

"Peter's new book makes us look at ourselves through a different lens--the lens of longevity. He emphasizes the importance of 'health now for longevity later, ' and I believe all age groups and fitness levels will benefit from the sound work/life balance the Earth Path offers.

Elite sports would be wise to take notice of its guidance because super fit does not necessarily mean super healthy, and the truth is we all want to live long and die healthy. Having worked closely with Peter I know firsthand his knowledge and attention to detail, which shines through in this book."-- "TOM HEATON, Manchester United and England International goalkeeper"

About the Author

Sifu Peter Newton is a registered senior instructor and honorary vice president of the Tai Chi Union for Great Britain. An expert in his field, he specializes in medical tai chi, applying tai chi and qigong as a remedial therapy to alleviate ailments. With more than forty years of experience and training directly with Chinese masters, Peter lives in Llandudno, Wales.