Review of Shiatsu and Pregnancy practitioners course with Suzanne Yates

(taught Vancouver April 26/27, 2001)

first printed in Shiatsu Practitioner Newsletter of British Columbia

By Moneka Yardley, R.S.T.

Much of the workshop was based on the Extraordinary Vessel theory of Du Mai (Governing), Ren Mai (conception), and Chong Mai (Penetrating) meridian lines. These lines represent the deeper treatment of the circulatory system essential to the process of birth. These connect to the "wells or reservoirs"- the Source. In times of great changes these systems send more or less energy than the 12 regular meridian lines. Suzanne especially pointed out the use of the Penetrating vessel, following from ST30, up the KD line-1/2 tsun from midline to mid-thoracic then 2 tsun to KD 27. The pressure is quite light but with intention and the thought of depth. Then she introduced the Heart-Uterus connections to vitalize the Kidney Jing, for the increase blood production that is associated with the growing baby. This required the kyo/jitsu balance of the heart and uterus. Mother hand on the jitsu and working hand on the kyo, following again the penetrating vessel line, from the heart to the uterus or vice versa, dependant on the client.

The information kept coming and coming. We touched upon the best time between pregnancies – seven years, and disadvantages and remedies for caesarian birth. Other topics were In-vitro fertilization, blocked milk ducts, relaxin, and symphysis pubis disturbances. As well as giving us all the potent information, Suzanne encouraged us to work with our clients to do meridian stretches, being on ‘all fours", and how to tackle being in the labor room. She gave us the ability to be effective with pregnancy and enjoy sharing the great process of birth with our clients and their families. We were extremely grateful to Suzanne for traveling so far to speak to us and we look forward to her quick return for a longer stint.