the Complete Brochure Online

Postgraduate Clinical Shiatsu Studies
A one-year program of shiatsu mastery
Learn to address immune
dysfunction, trauma and
life-threatening illness with
the divergent channels &
extraordinary vessels
An AOBTA-Endorsed
Educational Event
Postgraduate Clinical Shiatsu Studies
A one-year program of shiatsu mastery
Four Intensive Weekends - September 2016 - July 2017
Zen Shiatsu Chicago, 825A Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202
A one-year training with master instructor Michael DeAgro.
•
Students attend an intensive weekend every 2-4 months for 10
months. The time in between is devoted to application and practice of
the methods, with online study and supportive mentorship.
•
All hours approved for NCCAOM PDA credit and NCBTMB CE hours (30
hours per weekend, 120 hours for the full program including 4 hours of
ethics).
•
All classes also count towards CE hours for renewal of IL licenses for
massage therapy, acupuncture, physical therapy, naprapathy, nursing,
occupational therapy and social work.
Program participants must be professional Asian Bodywork Therapists or
Acupuncturists, or have at least 100 hours of student training in ABT.
For practicing Asian Bodywork Therapists, one of Michael’s passions is
elevating the clinical and economic success of dedicated Asian bodywork
practitioners. Clinical results are the key to developing a thriving word-ofmouth practice. This program is designed to help you deliver clinical results
across a broad spectrum of pathologies and achieve the practice of your
dreams. The Ling Shu says of the Divergent channels: “...they are the very
breath of the superior physician.” Come learn why this is true.
For acupuncturists, you will learn to practice using empathic ability
and your body’s guidance. You will learn to perceive and affect qi directly
through touch and clarify the unique benefits of treatment with touch in
contrast to needling technique. This curriculum also gives detailed protocols
for using the Divergent channels and Extraordinary vessels to treat chronic
and life-threatening illness far beyond the depth explored in entry-level
acupuncture training.
Register by phone or online:
847-864-1130
www.zenshiatsuchicago.org/postgraduate_studies/
Schedule
All weekends run Friday-Monday, with timeframes as follows:
Friday/Saturday 8:30am-6:00pm, Sunday/Monday 8:30am-5:00pm
Intensive I: Sinew Channels
Intensive II: Primary Channels
Intensive III: Divergent Channels
Intensive IV: Extraordinary/Integration
September 16-19, 2016
November 4-7, 2016
April 28-May 1, 2017
July 14-17, 2017
Pricing (Save $100 when you register before 8/16/16)
Full Seminar (120 hours): $3500 via payment plan, $3350 paid in one sum
Per Intensive (30 hours): $1095
Payment Plan 1: $500 at registration, $300/mo. 9/1/16 - 6/1/17 (0% APR)
Payment Plan 2: $500 at registration, $136/mo. 9/1/16 - 8/1/18 (8% APR)
Introductory Offerings for Prospective Students:
The Primacy of Touch and the Life Principle
Free Lecture - Friday July 8th, 7-10pm
In this presentation, Michael DeAgro discusses the extraordinary capacity of touch and how
it is uniquely suited for restoring and nourishing the connection to life. Sharing insights
from both classical Chinese medicine and modern neurobiology, Michael explores how
human touch offers possibilities for growth and healing that cannot be matched by
any other instrument. Human touch both receives and transmits force, resonance, and
information, enabling the integration of diagnosis and treatment into a unified activity.
He shares his discoveries about the internal dynamics of touch as a direct transmission
of the Heart, which allows it to harmonize the life principle of Heaven and Earth. Michael
shares his findings and reflections on what it means to sense “Qi” directly through
touch and how to regulate the “channels of Qi” with effortlessness and immediacy.
His insights into the practice of touch as medicine come from twenty-five years of practice
as a shiatsu practitioner and somatic psychotherapist. Following the lecture will be a
question and answer session about the content and objectives of the Postgraduate
Clinical Shiatsu Studies Program.
The Touch of Intrinsic Qi: Maximal Effect with Minimal Effort
Hands-On Introduction - Saturday, July 9th, 9am-4pm
Tuition: $120 - The cost of the workshop can be credited towards the program
downpayment.
In this workshop, Michael teaches a clear and simple method for achieving tangible
results in the “channel qi” with effortless touch. We will explore the effects of light touch
combined with specific changes in spatial perception that achieves immediate changes in
the patterning of qi. This process teaches the participant how to take the gross motor skills
of any shiatsu technique and transform them into the refined touch that elicits an intrinsic
qi response. We will also examine what it means to work with the channels within
an antipathogenic qi model. Instruction will include lots of demonstration and practice,
practice, practice. Following the workshop will be a question and answer session about the
content and objectives of the Postgraduate Clinical Shiatsu Studies Program.
Interview with Michael DeAgro - Why Postgraduate Studies?
...”To have a successful clinical practice I think you’ve got to be able to accomplish
two things. You’ve got to make good relationships with people and you’ve got
to get them results. And then beyond that the building of a private practice is word of
mouth. If you’re getting people good results and they’re going out in the community and
talking about it then you’re getting referrals. So, I really think the key to business success
is getting good clinical success. To get good clinical success I think you have to train
with teachers that are getting good clinical success. That’s the start right there. I think
Shiatsu is really an extraordinary healing practice, an extraordinary medicine, and I think
a lot of Shiatsu practitioners are doing really wondrous things in their practices.
But, from my interactions with lots of therapists across the country, I think they’re
also just scratching the surface. They can do a whole lot more.”
Watch the whole interview at http://www.zenshiatsuchicago.org/postgraduate_studies/
Student Karen Broyles shares her experience from the introductory
class: The Touch of Intrinsic Qi (2014)
“Michael DeAgro is a great teacher. His pragmatic and cogent explanations of
theory that might otherwise seem arcane were a joy to write in my notebook. (I’m
still enjoying re-reading my notes.) I’ve been able to apply the theory and technique that he
discussed in just this introductory workshop, and am already seeing positive results in my
practice. Michael is engaging the practice of Shiatsu at all the levels I find so intriguing – the
art and poetry of the practice, the philosophy – deep philosophy – and science behind it,
and the sheer joy of movement, energy and healing. I have been practicing Shiatsu for
20 years, and I can already see that this study will deepen and expand my practice
to a level that I can only guess at now. This is why I study shiatsu.“
- Karen Broyles, AOBTA CP, Dipl. ABT (NCCAOM)
Program Objectives:
Learn how to choose the most appropriate channel system for
restoring life in the presence of a given pathology.
The program investigates the multiple systems of channels and vessels at the core of
classical channel theory. Entry level training in shiatsu or acupuncture typically
emphasizes the study and use of the primary channels for treatment. This program
explores the use of all the channel systems within the classical tri-level framework of
the three qi levels: wei qi, ying qi, yuan qi. These three levels encompass the total channel/
vessel network: sinew channels, primary channels, lou vessels, divergent channels, and
eight extraordinary vessels.
Learning to work with all levels of the channel systems offers practitioners more
dynamic treatment options, which are especially valuable for addressing the
deepest roots of disease, mobilizing antipathogenic qi and empowering radical
transformation in the growth and healing process of an unfolding life. Study of the
distinct functions of each channel system provides practitioners with a broader framework
for sensing - through empathic touch - the most optimal place to catalyze change. Our goal
is not to focus on altering disease manifestations but to elicit the total dynamic functioning
of the life principle as it expresses through the life cycle. This approach aligns us with the
strongest potential for spontaneous healing according to the client’s natural momentum.
We will discuss the psychophysiology and distinctive pathologies of each channel system,
and the appropriate shiatsu methodology for optimal treatment of each channel system.
Each intensive includes basic instruction in both the theory and clinical application
of one or two channel systems. Emphasis will be given to translating Chinese medical
concepts into tangible, observable phenomena. The aim is to develop an embodied
understanding of the material through experiential training and clinical practice.
Expand your range of energetic perception for diagnosis, and learn
techniques to radically shift the patterning of qi.
Special consideration will be given to the cultivation of empathic sensitivity and treating
with intrinsic qi. Treating with intrinsic qi is the ability to treat through touch without relying
on the physical movement of touch, often referred to as “qi before strength”. It enables us to
achieve maximum effect with minimal effort. When combined with a refined understanding
of the total channel network, we can stimulate radical shifts in the patterning of qi.
Michael will introduce his own shiatsu method, Zenki Soho Shiatsu, which he originated
from the combined influences of his long-time studies of Quantum Shiatsu with Pauline
Sasaki, his contemplations of the classical teachings, and Daoist internal martial arts
practice. Zenki Soho Shiatsu approaches diagnosis as a perception of spacial dynamics
rather than a “movement of qi”. Treatment is approached as the regulation of contraction/
expansion of the spatial field through empathic resonance. His method often produces
tangible and immediate results with seemingly no effort.
Learn the Dao Yin qi cultivation practices that prepare you to give
bodywork at a master level.
Dao Yin translates as “guiding and leading”. Dao Yin practice is the specific skill cultivation
of “guiding and leading” qi in the body. Our Dao Yin practice will involve specific internal
movement processes that train the unique sensitivity required for facilitating the optimal
movement of qi with the least amount of physical effort. This self-cultivation process is
key to directly perceiving and differentiating the channel networks and infusing our
shiatsu technique with intrinsic power.
Intensive I: Sinew Channels, Wei Qi & the Exterior
The first intensive provides an investigation of surface energetics, which is regulated by
the sinew channels. Unblocking the sinew channels facilitates the flow of wei qi as it is
expressed through the sensory orifices, the skin, and the myofascial network. Successful
treatment of the sinew channel system supports our exchange with the world around
us. The free flow of wei qi is essential to creative expression and the management of
boundaries in life. Effectively treating the sinew channel complex is critical to healing
many immunological challenges such as allergies and infections, neurological and
orthopedic conditions such as pain syndromes and musculoskeletal injuries, and
psycho-emotional disharmonies involving chronic myofascial constriction. Sinew
treatment enhances resiliency and expressivity in our basic movements in the world.
We will discuss the classical six divisions of yin-yang zones (taiyang, shaoyang, yangming,
taiyin, shaoyin, jueyin) as the fundamental movement patterns of life. Focus will be on
assessing the six divisions and finding the most dynamic points for immediate release of
the sinew and unblocking the flow of wei qi. Focus will be on the application of shiatsu
technique to release holding patterns in the sinew channels without the need for
physical manipulation of the tissue, restoring the responsiveness of life in the surface.
Intensive II: Primary Channels, Luo Vessels & Functional
Illness
The second intensive extends our understanding of the functional energetics of the ying qi
level, which is expressed through the primary channel and luo vessel system. The primary/
luo channels are responsible for generating and managing the flow of ying qi (post-natal
qi/blood) and closely associated with the zang-fu organs. Learning to effectively treat the
primary channels helps us support the continuous creation of life, restore health to visceral
disharmonies, and nourish all of the body’s tissues. We are most familiar with the functions
of this channel system from our foundation studies in TCM models of physiology.
This intensive presents lesser-known models of physiology from classical Chinese
medicine such as Six Spheres of the Shang Han Lun and the Fire and Water model of
the Fire Spirit school. These models increase our understanding of the regenerative cycle
of life and how to restore the innate momentum of the qi dynamic. Effective treatment
of the primary and luo channels is especially important in resolving illnesses of the
body’s qi and blood production such as digestive, respiratory, gynecological, and
sleep disorders.
Our shiatsu training with the primary channels will explore a unique and alternate method
of quickly restoring the post-natal cycle of ying qi for self-healing and nourishing life.
This antipathogenic approach to primary channel treatment is not based on the
perception of disease manifestations. It follows the perception of the ying qi cycle itself
and targets the channel that will most effortlessly restore its intrinsic movement.
Intensive III: Divergent Channels, Trauma & Chronic
Degenerative Illness
The third intensive in the series will explore the role of the divergent channels in
psychophysiology and pathology. The divergent channel system is often the least
understood of the channel systems and the most important system for regulating our
instinctual nature and increasing our spontaneous adaptation to life’s challenges.
The divergent channel system governs the interaction between yuan qi and wei qi. It is
responsible for the balance between spontaneous expression of our essential self (yuan
qi) and the innate protection (wei qi) of our life cycle. As such, it is both the source of our
core power and the place of our deepest tensions and unresolved conflicts. Learning
to work with the divergent channels is key to resolving a wide range of chronic
and degenerative illnesses including auto-immune diseases, post-traumatic stress
disorders, endocrine diseases, cancer, and many unexplainable psychosomatic
conditions. Some of the most dramatic healing responses are a direct result of affecting
the divergent channel network.
Intensive IV: Extraordinary Vessels, Life-Threatening
Illness and Integration of the Channel Systems
In our final intensive we will examine the extraordinary vessels as the constitutional
foundation for life. Being conduits of yuan qi (or jing), they represent the primal innermost
organization of life and key developmental cycles. Traditionally, these vessels were not
used to deal with ordinary circumstances. They are called upon under extraordinary
circumstances such as life-threatening illnesses, major life altering events, or critical
developmental transitions in the life cycle of birth, growth, and completion. We will
develop adaptations of our shiatsu technique to invoke the special influence of these
primordial vessels.
Also in our final intensive we will practice a method of multi-dimensional diagnosis through
hara and channel scanning using the empathic sensitivity cultivated through the program.
With new understandings of the total dynamic functioning of the channel networks, we
will practice designing a treatment process and long-term treatment plan that facilitates
greater integrity in the restoration of health and human potential. Time will be given to
learning how to behold and tell the story of an individual’s transformation as reflected in
the embodied spirit’s movement of qi.
Online Assignments and Mentoring
Online tutorials are offered bi-weekly, allowing for regular supportive mentorship
throughout the program. Each online session is 2 hours of live streaming providing visual
review of technique, clinical case discussions, and ongoing coaching. The online support
offers an additional 30 hours of contact time. Optionally included in the program is
access to supervised practice in Michael’s teaching clinic in Traverse City, MI. (Students are
responsible for their own travel and lodging.)
Perspectives from Graduates of the 2014-2015 Program
Ninetta Keenan - Recent Shiatsu Graduate
“To anyone who is just finishing their shiatsu training and
wondering if their ready to take this next step, I say you
are ready! Take it! I feel there is a benefit to taking
this program right after or while still in an entry-level
program because I didn’t have a set way of doing
things, I was still learning and still trying to figure things
out. And this practice expanded my horizons. I didn’t
have any preconceived notions about anything and it was
just a natural progression for me.”
Karen Broyles - 20 Years in Shiatsu Practice
“Shiatsu is poetry! Shiatsu is philosophy. There’s never a
time at which the line of inquiry stops. This is a fascinating
line of inquiry. It has deepened and enriched my practice,
and I feel I have many many more years of inquiry to
pursue along this line. This whole program has just
been really fun for me. I’ve really enjoyed it and my
kids are tired of me talking about it. I do not regret one
moment of it. It’s been wonderful.”
Courtney Cowie - Tui Na Therapist
“Initially coming into it, I thought ‘Oh gosh, I don’t
know if I could do this without the shiatsu background’.
I think if you’ve got the basic Chinese Medicine foundation
as any Asian Bodyworker, you’re going to be fine. Not only
that but I think that it really does open your perspective up
as a therapist as to what’s possible.”
Bridget Schrank - Acupuncturist
The curriculum that Michael used, especially with the
extraordinary vessels and the divergent channels, has
been really helpful, and went far beyond the applications
and theory I was taught in acupuncture school. I now
understand how to perceive those channels energetically
and how to use them clinically. I would absolutely
suggest this to any type of practitioner. It can only
deepen your practice and your faith in the medicine.
Read the full interviews including stories of client results online at
http://www.zenshiatsuchicago.org/postgraduate_studies/
Michael DeAgro, Instructor
Michael DeAgro began his career as a visual
artist, psychotherapist, and expressive arts
therapist with a BFA from Rhode Island School
of Design in 1985 and an MS in counseling
psychology from Loyola College in 1990. Early in
his career he practiced psychodrama and many
somatic psychotherapies.
In 1993, he began his studies in shiatsu and
Chinese medicine at the Baltimore School of
Shiatsu, studying Zen Shiatsu with Rosemary
Scavullo and Integrative Eclectic Shiatsu with
Barbra Esher. He continued his studies with
Pauline Sasaki committing himself to the study
and practice of Pauline’s Quantum Shiatsu
method, which evolved from her direct studies
with Shizuto Masanaga and Akinobu Kishi.
Michael also researched the classical channel
teachings and roots of bodywork therapies in
Daoist medicine traditions.
In 2002, Michael began his studies in Chinese herbal medicine. He completed two years
of private study and mentorship with Gonzalo Flores of GroundSpring Healing Center
in Portland, OR. In 2014, he completed the White Pine Institute’s two-year Graduate
Mentorship Program with Sharon Weizenbaum. Currently, he is continuing his studies of
the Shang Han Lun herbal tradition with Dr. Feng Shi Lun of the Hu Xi Shu Classical Medicine
Research Association in Beijing, China and Yaron Seidman of the Hunyuan Institute. He has
also studied the Shang Han Lun tradition with Dr. Huang Huang and Alex Tiberi.
Michael also studies both Chinese and Japanese martial arts. He studies T’ai Chi Chuan
and Daoist internal martial arts with Scott Phillips of Northstar Martial Arts in Boulder, CO
and Aikido and Iaido with Roo Heins of Northwest Michigan Aikikai in Traverse City, MI. He
credits his studies of internal martial arts as key to his understanding of effortless power
and the spontaneous transformation of qi.
Michael is director of the Zenki Lotus Institute where he maintains a full-time clinic in
Traverse City, Michigan. He combines the practice of psychotherapy with Asian bodywork
therapies and Chinese herbal medicine. He also researches and teaches Asian bodywork
therapies as touch medicine. In addition to his teaching and clinical work, he provides
professional coaching and clinical supervision to both counselors and bodywork
therapists. Michael holds a special interest in elevating the clinical and economic success
of dedicated Asian bodywork practitioners. He is a licensed professional counselor in the
state of Michigan, a board certified Diplomat of Asian Bodywork Therapy with the NCCAOM,
and a Certified Instructor member of the AOBTA. He has served on the AOBTA board as
Director of Education and is currently a member of the AOBTA Peer Review Committee.
All hours approved for NCCAOM PDA credit and NCBTMB CE hours. (30
hours per weekend, 120 hours for the full program, including 4 hours of
Ethics). Complete all your NCCAOM PDA requirements!
All classes also count towards CE hours for renewal of IL licenses for
massage therapy, acupuncture, physical therapy, naprapathy, nursing,
occupational therapy and social work.
•
•
An AOBTA-Endorsed
Educational Event
Because this course is approved by the IL Acupuncture Board, all hours
also count for NCCAOM PDA credit, per recertification rules.
www.zenshiatsuchicago.org/postgraduate_studies/
Students attend an intensive weekend every 2-4 months for 10 months.
The time in between is devoted to application and practice of the methods, with online study and supportive mentorship.
•
A one-year program of shiatsu mastery with Michael DeAgro.
Postgraduate Clinical Shiatsu Studies
825A Chicago Ave
Evanston, IL 60202
Presort Std
US Postage
PAID
Palatine P&DC
Permit #7133