The Tao of Seduction: Erotic Secrets from Ancient China
Yi's translation of the oldest existing treatises on human sexuality-some of the texts date as far back as 453 B.C.-receives a fittingly lush treatment in this impressive Taoist guide to sexual health and well-being. Though the passages are brief, much of the ancient advice is as relevant today as it was centuries ago. Readers may be pleasantly surprised by how much attention is paid to pleasing both partners, as well as the book's sophisticated guide to positions and techniques. Emphasizing a holistic approach and the acquisition of proper balance, much focus is put on breathing, sleep and a proper diet. Yi does a fine job of letting the material speak for itself, choosing to comment only when it's necessary to clarify or expand upon a given passage. Supplemented with elegant color illustrations of courtship and lovemaking from the 16th to 19th centuries and a selection of recipes to alleviate symptoms as varied as fatigue, digestion and (of course) impotence, this thoughtful, elegant treatment should delight those interested in Chinese art, medicine and philosophy.Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.