The human body, the human condition intrigue and fascinate me. I remember taking my first anatomy and physiology class in nursing school. Studying the heart, I discovered the wonder of the 12-lead EKG. Twelve different views of the heart. The instructor said, ‘picture a room where you can see in through twelve different doors and windows three dimensions, 360 degrees — same room, different views. That day in 1973 began my Zen drive to examine people, health, society from many perspectives, looking both in and out of the windows. My Uncle Leon introduced me to the Metaphysical Dictionary and dream studies, my Uncle Arthur to the Medical Letter, a ‘consumer reports’ of drugs and therapeutics, and my Aunt Lea to home birth, Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and reiki. There are more than three dimensions! These diverse views of the human condition fed my curiosity and wonder. In this bizarre, alternate universe of Covid19, I find that the ability to shift dimensions and views helps me to create new perspectives and reach for wonder while I freak out. Valerie Smith, the acupuncturist on my health team, has offered me a Chinese medicine perspective and treatment for more than ten years. Valerie and I recorded our conversation before Covid19 became a pandemic. We spoke again. Listen through the word from our sponsor, Abridge, for the second half — the most recent conversation about the coronavirus through the eyes of Chinese medicine.
