On leaving full-time education Russell started to travel extensively and began to deepen his study of Taoism.

[2][3] He wrote twenty one books, including Barefoot Doctor's Handbook for the Urban Warrior, A Spiritual Survival Guide and Pure: A Path to Peace, Power and Prosperity.

[4][5] In addition to giving talks, leading workshops[6] and commenting on holistic and spiritual matters,[7] he made a series for BBC UK Style named "Barefoot Doctor" which was broadcast in 2003.

[3] Mainstream medical professionals have criticised the advice given in Russell's popular Observer column as being founded on traditional beliefs rather than science, and his books have been described as "health fiction".

Jonathan Coe of medical practitioners' standards charity Witness, said that they had received five complaints about Russell relating to patients in treatment.