This work bridges the measurable and the mysterious aspects of the heart with remarkable intelligence, clinical depth, and humanity. Rooted in both modern cardiovascular science and the wisdom of Chinese medicine, it offers a rare synthesis that feels equally rigorous and deeply compassionate.
Professor von Elgg writes with the discerning eye of an experienced clinician and the tenderness of someone who understands that healing extends far beyond physiology alone. A thoughtful, beautifully articulated exploration of what it truly means for the heart to be well.
— Dr. Bianca Di Giulio, LAc
Author, Bridging the Gap: Integrative Oncology and the Practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dennis von Elgg is a highly respected medical practitioner and a beloved teacher who blends ancient theory, modern research, and decades of clinical expertise with a delicious dose of personal warmth and humor.
In Heart Stories, Dennis turns his holistic lens towards heart disease so we can treat cardiac pathology while also finding deeper meaning and enjoyment in our lives. This book is a written treasure that will inform and delight practitioners and patients alike for many generations to come.
— Robyn Adcock, DACM, LAc, CMT
Director of Integrative Medicine, UCSF Stad Center for Pediatric Pain, Palliative & Integrative Medicine
This book builds bridges. For practitioners of East Asian Medicine, we find here a fascinating re-framing of our tradition which respects the roots. Drawing from decades of hard-won clinical experience, Dennis von Elgg also adds to our tradition by considering the classics in the context of modern research and cardiovascular therapy. Most importantly, the text brings dynamism to that oft-quoted maxim that “all disease begins with the emotions.” He carefully explores, expands, and clinically elucidates how all of the organs, with their associated emotional excesses and deficiencies, can affect the heart. With case studies that read like stories and invitations for us to reflect on both ourselves and our patients, this is one of those books that will make going to work all the more interesting and rewarding.
— Dr. Jason D. Robertson
Seattle Institute of East Asian Medicine
It is unusual for a book to give both the EKG and the shen equal weight. Dennis’ book bridges the gap between the cardiologist’s instruments and a tradition that understood the heart long before we could image it. With clinical clarity and a teacher’s warmth, the book makes the case for psychocardiology as a way to meet the whole of a patient’s being. For practitioners working where biomedicine and East Asian medicine meet, it’s a thoughtful map of a territory that is too often left unexplored.
— Toby Daly, PhD, LAc
Author, An Introduction to Chinese Medicine, The Saam Acupuncture Tradition, and Tracing Our Lineage
