Many books have been written about the “theory of macrobiotics,” the “Unique Principle,” and the “Order of the Universe,” by George Ohsawa alone, not to mention all the books written by his students and disciples. The George Ohsawa Macrobiotic Foundation provides an extensive list of these books, and they are in the process of adding more as they bring the older books back into print.
Although these books are mainly about the philosophy or theory of macrobiotics, they also serve a practical purpose, whether it be guidelines for choosing what foods to eat, learning how to read and understand your body’s signals, or providing positive inspiration and encouragement.
These are my favorite books on macrobiotic theory, ones that I like to read over and over again:
1. Zen Macrobiotics, by George Ohsawa. (I’ve found this book to be the most practical and very inspirational. See my related article, Re-Reading "Zen Macrobiotics.")
2. Cancer and the Philosophy of the Far East (formerly called MACROBIOTICS: The Way Of Healing), by George Ohsawa. (I’ve found this book to be the most inspirational.)
3. Acid and Alkaline, by Herman Aihara. (This book provides a much-needed tool for dealing with illness and hazards today. See also, "The Yin and Yang of Acid and Alkaline.")
4. Acid Alkaline Companion, by Carl Ferre. (Less theory, more practical — a very helpful, useful book indeed. See also, "The Yin and Yang of Acid and Alkaline.")
5. Essential Guide to Macrobiotics, by Carl Ferre. (Formerly called Pocket Guide to Macrobiotics. This is like the “Cliff Notes” of Zen Macrobiotics. It’s very handy to carry around and gives you a quick refresher course instantly. Easy to understand; it puts everything into immediate focus.)
6. Essential Ohsawa, by George Ohsawa and compiled by Carl Ferre. (This is a grand compilation of the works by George Ohsawa, Philosopher, that includes the principles of macrobiotics as well as a sampling of his many other ideas. The book is arranged in three parts: 1) Foundations of the Body, 2) Principles of the Mind, and 3) Dreams of the Spirit. This is another book that is very inspirational to me. I especially like the sidebars containing the recollections of people who knew George Ohsawa personally.)
7. Philosophy Of Oriental Medicine: Key to Your Personal Judging Ability, by George Ohsawa. (This book, previously published as “The Book Of Judgment,” is the most comprehensive book on macrobiotic theory, including a thorough explanation of the Unique Principle, the Order of the Universe, and the Seven Stages of Judgment. It holds a lot to think about and ponder over. Keeping this book at the base of your macrobiotic studies gives you the key to your own independence and freedom. You are in control of your own life!)
Related Articles:
Guidelines For Classifying In Terms Of Yin And Yang
The Color Classifications of Food
The Importance of Chewing
The Yin and Yang of Acid and Alkaline
What Is Macrobiotics? (January 2, 2011)
What Is Macrobiotics? (January 23, 2011)
