Helen Lee - The Tao of Beauty

This book is dedicated to my mother, who guided me with her deep wisdom and always encouraged me. She is the most loving and caring person I know, giving to all in need without expecting any recognition or reward.
My goal is to be as great a person as she and as good a mother to my daughter, Samantha, who gives me my greatest joy.

I wish to thank my mother, all my sistersBetty, Doris, Fanny, Janice, Lisa, and Robinand my brother, Tim, as well as my late father, for sharing their knowledge, providing references, and giving support and encouragement, especially when I needed it most. Thanks to Dr. Jie He Li, Dr. Yue Chan, and Dr. James Ji, who were wonderful advisors and teachers. This book would not have been possible without them.

Thanks to all the staff of the Helen Lee Spa, particularly my manager, Tina, and assistant, Arlene, for their help. I also wish to thank the spa clients who contributed to this book. My friends Cydna Moore, George Sing, George Fan, Peter Regna, Scott Shellstrom, Steve Prezant, Steve Forrest, and Joe Zaino, were always there when I needed them.

A special thanks to my agent, Katharine Sands, who helped in so many ways to make this book possible, and to Sallie Batson for her help in writing the text; Kimberly Blackwood for helping with the recipes and for her writing assistance.

Thanks to Tracy Behar, my editor, for believing in me and for having the understanding and vision for this book and for all her time and patience. This book would never have been possible without the guidance, editorial support, understanding, and patience of Tracy and her assistant, Angela Casey, of Broadway Books.

Before beginning any new exercise, diet, or health regimen, such as the program described in this book, you are advised to consult with a physician to make sure the new regimen is appropriate, especially if you have a pre-existing illness or health condition. The author and publisher disclaim liability for any adverse effects that may result from the use or application of the information contained in this book.

The Tao

is the breath that never dies.

It is a Mother to All Creation.

It is the root and ground of every soul

the fountain of Heaven and Earth, laid open.

Endless source, endless river

River of no shape, river of no water

Drifting invisibly from place to place

it never ends

and it never fails.

LAO TZU

Many Western people have difficulty in understanding the Chinese philosophy of health and beauty. Writing this book has given me a genuine appreciation for having this ancient philosophy as an integral part of my upbringing. As an adult I was inspired to study Chinese herbal medicine formally so that I could broaden and deepen my knowledge and understanding. I moved to the United States in my early teens, so I was exposed to the ways of the West at a relatively early age. By experiencing both Eastern and Western cultures, I have gained an appreciation and respect for what each has to offer. These two philosophies are very different, and it is my hope that I increase your understanding.

The Tao of Beauty is a primer of the most basic and general information on Chinese concepts of health and beauty, made relevant and accessible for the modern woman.

Please read this book with an open mind. Our bodies are miraculous. Depending on how we nourish and care for them, they can heal themselves as well as produce toxins and spread disease. The Chinese concept starts with prevention, then emphasizes proper nourishment to attain balance. Harmony and balance are in every aspect of our lives. It is my hope that this book will help you on the path to a healthier, more beautiful, and happier life. Enjoy.