After 2 weeks of almost total retreat in a classical furniture warehouse/showroom on the outskirts of Shanghai, I have returned back to Beijing with much to think about. I will, undoubtedly, be posting insights gained from this amazing Acupuncture Without Borders training workshop for some time to come, as I grapple to assimilate the mountain of information that was delved out over almost 90 hrs of classroom lecture and practice.
But first, I would like to begin with a few brief words of gratitude to those who made this training program such a success. First, many thanks to Drs. LiXin and Jason Yang of Insight ACM for hosting the program, and to all of their students who so warmly welcomed us to Shanghai. Thanks to AnLi for such a great place to stay and the wicked classroom setup, replete with antique Chinese furniture and delicious meals and snacks throughout the course. And cheers to all the fellow participants, especially my roommates who toughed out the cold together with me and made it a truly enjoyable learning experience, with long, heated discussions about the nature of Chinese medicine deep into the night. It was everything that a Chinese medical education should be.
Most importanly, I would like to thank Silvie and Claudine from AWB for assisting, MeiLing for her tireless translation work, and of course, our chief instructor, Mr. Jacques Pialoux. The direct and open way in which he shared his insights into the nature of Chinese medicine and the Book of Changes pieced together from 50 years of clinical experience was truly something amazing. He left me puzzled, intrigued, and at times, frustrated and exhausted. But more than anything, his concise presentation of such a comprehensive system of energy flow and acupuncture has challenged me out of the complacent, materialistic mindset of modern TCM I was in danger of sinking further into. The practice of acupuncture is first and foremost, an investigation into the subtle energy structure of the human system and its relationship to the awesome power of nature. And as such, it needs to be undertaken with an equally subtle, discerning mind. This is the only way we can ever hope to raise ourselves up to the level of the ancient creators of this art and apply the knowledge we have been left.
So what then, is acupuncture? Such a simple question; yet one I feel that few can truly answer. These past 2 weeks represent Jacques answer to a lifetime spent asking that very question - and a truly awesome, inspiring answer it is. I look forward to pulling it all apart and working my way through the many ideas that are now floating around in my still slightly-numbed consciousness and putting them into practice.
Further posts to come soon...
2 comments:
Ah as I too bask in the glow of our shared experience I am beckoned to act upon this new knowledge with the courage of a child learning to walk. Yesterday upon my arrival back in the west I was thrust into action with 5 clients. Upon each I embarked to utilize my new skill. Qi was now on the left and Xue on the right and all seemed so peaceful and perfect. My intent was clear and the room felt as if the clouds had parted the sky. It is a feeling akin to watching my child's birth. The clear expression of true healing unfolding before me. A gift I have received and one I give out to all that come to receive. I look forward to watching the progress unfold and sharing it with all who are interested. I too am grateful to all who participated and look forward to our future learning. Be well. Stuart Dimson LAc, DOM. awakeningacupuncture.com
Sounds like a great experience Bryan.
Let me know if there are going to be any similar retreats in the future: they sound like something definitely worth attending.
Tim Sibbald
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