[TCM] Remembering Pin Yin Herbal names

[bmp500 at earthlink.net]

Like Al, I find it helps to remember the English translation of the pinyin.
Helps with point names and formulas too.

Sometimes something about the look/taste/smell of an herb can be used to tie
it together with its name and/or function.

Also, I've been recently working with memory systems that use visual
associations connecting the words/names etc. that you are trying to
remember.  The more bizarre/exaggerated the visual, the better. These
techniques can take time and practice, but I found they can work well. I
save them for the thing I have the hardest time remembering.

The images don't have to match the words precisely; just so that the
words/images remind you of each other.

For example:

Mu Xiang...

sounds a little like Moo Shame, so...

picture a cow, hanging his head and mooing in shame, because he is stuck in
tar pit/quagmire (stagnation)

If you can think of something even sillier, that is better.

In your case, since you can remember the botanical name and
function/indications (maybe you should be telling US how you do that with
ease!) your images might be used to connect the botanical name, or an image
of the herb itself, with the pinyin.

You could also try creating images that incorporate the translation of the
pinyin, or something about the physical properties of the herb: whatever is
easiest for you to remember and connect to.

Spend a few seconds really picturing your chosen image in your mind. Make it
clear and vivid, and as preposterous as possible. Review the info and
associated image a few times. You'll find that not only do the images help
you work out the names/functions, but soon your brain will have really
memorized the info, and the images won't be necessary at all.

Braxton

-----Original Message-----
From: tcm-students-bounces at gancao.net
[mailto:tcm-students-bounces at gancao.net]On Behalf Of George Mandler

wondering if anyone has any tips for remembering the pin yin names of
the herbs.