Acupressure techniques are simple to learn, but using them effectively requires a good understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This seven-day class (three days on, one day off, three days on) will provide you with a solid foundation in the theory and application of this three thousand year old massage method. Learn the meridian pathways with lots of hands on time to REALLY be able to find these unique acupressure points and apply the techniques!

Author, clinician, certified massage therapist and horsewoman Diana Thompson has spent a lifetime refining these techniques for their accuracy and value. She has spent countless hours researching and refining her acupressure charts and text to stand as one of the most precise references available to those seeking to learn this modality. In addition, Diana horsemanship with a good relationship as the intended outcome, massage and Bach Flower Therapy for horses and dogs internationally. You will find Diana enthusiastic, energetic, gentle and extremely knowledgeable. Diana was founder of the Whole Horse Journal - Guide to Natural Horse Care and Training. During The Journal’s first three years, Diana served as Editor-In-Chief, guiding the publication to eight national media awards and international readership. You’ll recognize her name behind numerous articles on massage and alternative training appearing in Horse and Rider Magazine, the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) Endurance News, The Anvil Magazine and Ride! Magazine. Currently, she is featured with her monthly column in Southern CA’s Riding Publication Magazine.

During this course students learn to effectively and professionally use acupressure on horses to strengthen correct flows of qi in order to create optimum equine health when appropriate.

OUTLINE OF COURSE:

An overview of the Traditional Chinese Medicine approach to health

Acupressure principles and hands-on techniques to include:

•    functions of the twelve organ systems and two extraordinary flows of Classical Chinese Medicine as they apply to optimum physical and emotional health in the horse

•    location of the twelve energetic pathways (meridians) and two extraordinary flows on the horse

•    location of over 120 equine acupressure points

•    exercises to feel qi energy and improve acupressure effectiveness

•    basic anatomy and bony landmarks

•    incorporating a variety of acupressure techniques in other types of bodywork modalities

COURSE SUMMARY:

 The student will learn how to apply acupressure and lifestyle management in order to support the correct flows of qi in the horse. From the Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, strengthening the correct flow of qi supports the optimum physical and emotional health of the horse including:   

•    the lungs and other structures of the respiratory system

•    overall immune function

•    the digestive system

•    the heart and blood vessels of the cardiovascular system

•    urinary tract system including the kidneys and bladder

•    the reproductive system

•    the muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints of the horse

•    the sense organs such as the eyes, nose and ears

•    the mind and spirit; how to help the horse maintain a calm spirit and the ability to think clearly

LEVEL ONE COURSE REQUIRED MATERIALS:

1) Acupressure Point Charts for Horses

An Illustrated Guide to 128 Point Locations and Uses, Diana Thompson, author

ISBN #978 0-9816741-0-0      (272 pages) Students can purchase directly through Diana Thompson at www.dianathompson.com or request one to pick up at the course.

2) All of Chapter One, and Section One and Section Three of Chapters Two through Chapter 15 of the Text manual written by Diana Thompson

Working Title: Acupressure for Horses

A Comprehensive Guide to Traditional Chinese Medicine    (441 total pages) This text is included in the cost of the tuition.

Prerequisite: Students must first complete the precourse study guide designed for the course before its commencement. Please register early to give yourself 60-90 days prior to the course to absorb the information. Students must complete the EQ800 Equine Acupressure Level One course and its externship.

This course is required for the Specialized Equine Body Worker ® Acupressure Series ( SEBWac). In addition you must be a qualified Equine Body Worker ® graduate for this certification.

For the certification outline, please click here:

http://www.equinology.com/info/certification.asp