Shamanic Origins of Classical Chinese Medicine: Manipulating the External Terrain

Shamanic Origins of Classical Chinese Medicine: Manipulating the External Terrain

In this class, Jeffrey Yuen will explore the shamanistic techniques of external manipulation and how we can influence the vibrations of the surrounding environment. As with internal training, the manipulation of the external environment had different levels. First, we explore the manipulation of the external environment through vibration, specifically through ritual movements. Next the prescribed external movements are replaced by spontaneous movements that are generated from internal cultivation. Finally the cultivator realizes that the border between the internal and external (the physical body), is an illusion and that internal and external are one. At this stage the shaman was believed to be able to directly manipulate the external environment merely through thought or intention. This training formed the basis of the Chinese medical technique of using intention within acupuncture and other techniques. It also formed the basis for Chinese medical qigong. 

While attendance at prior classes may be helpful, each weekend covers specific aspects of shamanic contributions to Chinese medicine and is a subject in and of itself.