Feedback from previous participants:
"The Interpreting the Zangfu workshop was unquestionably a return to the source of classical Chinese Medicine. I found a new kind of clarity and appreciation for the medicine we practice. Having key classical Chinese characters clearly explained was so valuable. Students dive into the classics to get an expanded understanding of the richly textured layers of meaning that exist in the heart of Chinese Medicine theory and practice. A cultural journey through time and space was made easily accessible by Deborah’s clear and engaging teaching. I would recommend this workshop to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of Chinese Medicine."

I thought that this would be a simple lecture on the zangfu and their function, however this was so much more, by interpreting the Chinese characters for the zangfu. Everything I expected to be addressed was, in a fascinating delivery. Compelling and enjoyable. [ I could not stop and was totally immersed in this… an excellent way to deepen my understanding of Chinese zangfu theory.]


"The Interpreting the Zangfu workshop was unquestionably a return to the source of Oriental Medicine. Having key classical Chinese characters clearly explained was so valuable. Participants of this workshop will dive into the classics to get an expanded understanding of the richly textured layers of meaning that exist in ancient Chinese characters. A cultural journey through time-and-space made easily accessible by Deborah’s clear and engaging teaching. I would recommend this workshop to anyone interested in expanding and deepening their understanding of the Zang fu organs, and learning the original Chinese characters that described them. "


This CPD created so many links that has given me a better understanding of Chinese medicine and how it flows, therefore giving me a better understanding of how to diagnose and treat. Very good teacher.


“Fascinating content and engaging and lively teaching; incredible depth of knowledge. An extremely interesting and well taught course that deepens the understanding of the Chinese medicine approach to the internal organs. Best taught in 3 separate days as it covers a very wide and deep knowledge of the subject.”


“An inspired and amazing teacher who deepens your knowledge and understanding”.

Deborah studies and translates Classical Chinese medical texts, with a particular interest in the background and roots of Stems and Branches, divination and calendars, astronomy and astrology.  Her undergraduate dissertation was on spirals and their applications in acupuncture, drawing on her earlier studies in pure mathematics and nature.

She has extended her Stem and Branches understanding with further study with many great teachers including Elisabeth Rochat de la Vallée and Dr. Ed Neal (Neijing acupuncture). She is a keen student who is often seen at CPD events. 

She has completed an MA at University College London, with a dissertation on numbers and divination in Chinese Medicine and is currently studying for her PhD. 

Explore key characters and phrases related to the twelve zang fu organs to deepen your understanding of their function and dysfunction. 
This three day workshop looks at Chinese Medicine through the characters to reveal their meaning and uses. 
Each zang fu organ has a 'cluster' of Chinese terms that are used specifically with it: for instance, the classics state to 'firm the spleen' rather than the looser idea of to 'tonify the spleen'. 
Chinese medical terminology represents a vital link to our interpretation of the Chinese Medicine itself.

​Day 1 covers Liver and Heart, day 2 covers Lungs and Kidneys, day 3 covers Spleen and Fu organs.

You can watch one or all three, as standalone or interlinked lectures.

Click here to purchase the audio & video recording of Day 1:  Liver and Heart.

Click here to purchase the audio & video recording of Day 2:  Lung and Kidneys.

Click here to purchase the audio & video recording of Day 3:  Spleen and Fu organs. 

About your tutor: Deborah Woolf

Deborah is passionate about Classical Chinese medicine, and has taught Chinese Medicine, Philosophy and practical skills for over twenty years at the International College of Chinese Medicine. She combines her teaching with a very busy clinic, applying her understanding of the Classics in the practical realm. Her studies strengthen her clinical practice, and the clinical experience is a valuable tool and focus for her studies. A lively and inspiring teacher, Deborah's knowledge and love of the Chinese language enables direct interpretation for practitioners of Chinese Medicine.

Interpreting the zangfu 臟腑 organs

of Chinese Medicine

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Moxa & rollers click here

Specialised Japanese products click here


 Courses in 2024


Intro to Thai Tok Sen massage*

Saturday 21 September 2024


Intro to Korean Hand Therapy *

Sunday 22 September 2024


Recorded Courses​​​

​Interpreting the zangfu 臟腑 organs
of Chinese Medicine​*

​learn about the Chinese characters which form a semantic cloud around each organ

 - a great way to deepen your understanding of organ functions


An afternoon with a Jiao​*
look at the tripartite division of the trunk - and learn more about acupoints in each jiao


Twenty four Solar fortnights​*
​these 12 separate 2 hour recordings are applicable to one month or a full year - including astronomy, astrology, food, ceremonies, acupuncture channels, acupoints, seasonal exercises and more


*open to students or anyone with an interest in this area *