Complex Trauma and Chronic Pain

IN Classical Chinese Medicine

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In this course, we will explore meridian relationships, as described in Classical Chinese Medicine, to better understand how to effectively treat complex trauma and chronic pain. We also will examine the relationship between emotional trauma and physical pain.

This class synthesizes our understanding of acupuncture meridians, with concepts from our current biological understanding of the human body, ie. blood vessels, nerve pathways and connective tissues and the neuroendocrine system. 

We will deepen our understanding of complex trauma and develop our skills in trauma-informed manual therapy and communication. We will explore some of the most current approaches to working with complex (developmental) trauma, inspired by the work of renowned leaders in the field like Gabor Maté, Peter Levine, Bessel Van der Kolk, Bruce Perry, Lawrence Heller, Stefanie Klein and Brad Kammer.

Our primary treatment modality will be direct moxabustion, burning moxa directly on the skin. We will also practice some indirect moxabustion techniques, burning moxa without touching the skin. 
We will learn how to use exclusively distal treatment (meaning we do not even touch the area of pain, but instead treat related meridians not even close to where the pain is) for miraculous and instantaneous pain relief and nervous system regulation.

Prerequisites: Previous training in Shiatsu or Chinese Medicine is required to register. 
Students must have a basic understanding of meridian theory, so that we can begin to deepen our understanding of the more complex relationships and focus on effective treatment techniques.

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