Class Descriptions




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The Jin Shin Do® Foundation is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) as a continuing education Approved Provider (# 026771).

These CEU certificates may only be given by Authorized Jin Shin Do® Teachers.


Introduction:

"Jin Shin Do" means "The Way of the Compassionate Spirit". Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® uses gentle yet deep finger pressure on specific acu-points and verbal Body Focusing techniques, to help release "armoring" or chronic tension, balance the "Qi" or energy, and improve vitality. This clothes-on method helps relieve stress- and trauma-related problems. A unique synthesis of a traditional Japanese acupressure technique, classic Chinese acu-theory, Taoist philosophy, Qigong (breathing and exercise techniques), Reichian segmental theory and principles of Ericksonian psychotherapy, Jin Shin Do® acupressure was originated by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden.


Class Descriptions:

Short Introductory Classes
JSD Acupressure Facial
Module I: Acupressure Theory and Technique
Module II: Modality Technique and Practice
Module III: Experience Hours
Module IV: Bodymind Acupressure® (includes Bodymind Trancework and Trauma/Abuse issues)
Intensive Teacher Training Program
General Statements



SHORT INTRODUCTORY CLASSES

These classes are taught by approved Registered Jin Shin Do® Acupressurists
as well as Authorized Jin Shin Do® teachers.

5-Step JSD Neck-Shoulder Release - 2 Hours

Learn to find key neck and shoulder points, plus distal points to help release stubborn tensions. Practice the relaxing Basic JSD Neck Release on oneself and others, holding 5 key neck & shoulder points bilaterally.

Class Materials: JSD chart reduction (8 1/2" X 11") Can be taught by Registered JSD Acupressurists.

Fundamentals of Self-Acupressure - 8 Hours

  • The simple, effective Basic JSD Neck/Shoulder Release, and how to do it for yourself and others.
  • Qigong breathing and stretching exercises: Pal Dan Gum (the Eight Silken Movements) and Hara Breathing.
  • 25-point self-acupressure pattern and Basic Central Release.
  • Self-care points to help relieve the tension and discomfort of headache, backache, jaw pain, constipation, menstrual problems, "heartburn" and nausea.
Class Materials: Fundamentals of Self-Acupressure, © 1978, 1990 by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden; JSD Chart reduction (8 1/2" x 11"). Can be taught by Registered JSD Acupressurists after passing practical exam by an Authorized JSD teacher.

Fundamentals of Acupressure - 14 Hours

The above class plus the technique and point finding skills needed to practice the patterns on each other.

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The following classes are taught by Authorized Jin Shin Do® teachers only.

JSD Acupressure Facial - 8 Hours minimum

This facial works with the main neck points, called "Windows of the Sky," as well as with other points on the face and head, releasing tension and aiding circulation of "Qi" up and down the body, to open the "windows." This 12-step JSD facial, originally developed for cosmetologists, uses only points on the face, head, neck, arms and hands. Wonderfully relaxing!

Class Materials: Jin Shin Do® Acupressure Facial Handbook, © 1982, 2009 by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden.



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MODULE I
150 Hours of Acupressure Theory and Technique

Parts 1, 2, 3 and 4

These classes present theories and techniques necessary for effective practice of Jin Shin Do® acupressure, beginning with 55 main Jin Shin Do® points, progressing to over 200 important points, and correlating point location with anatomy. Exact angle of point stimulation is emphasized. Students begin to practice by following release examples, and later learn to improvise based on tension patterns and energic assessment. Approximately 75 hours is devoted to demonstration and practice.

Part 1:  BASIC Jin Shin Do®: 40 Hours minimum

Objectives: participants learn to:

  • Locate 55 acu-points in relation to surrounding anatomy.
  • Describe how Jin Shin Do® acupressure can be utilized for general relaxation and to release specific tensions.
  • Demonstrate acu-point combinations for common problems, including tension in the head, neck, shoulders, back, chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities.
  • Process, in a simple way, the feelings and images which may arise from the body during acupressure release.
  • Perform simple movements which facilitate relaxation and structural-energic balancing.
  • Identify the 8 Strange Flows or extraordinary vessels, and demonstrate their use for energy balancing and general relaxation.
Content:
  • Unit I. Principles of acupressure. Traditional Eastern and modern Western mindsets. Qi (energy). Acu-points defined and described scientifically. Pressure technique. 3 signs of release. Location of 16 acu-points, with anatomical detail and individual attention. Practice: general relaxation pattern and the basic JSD neck release.
  • Unit 2. Basic acupressure theory, including yin-yang polarities. The armoring process. Local and distal point theory. Location of 16 acu-points, with anatomical detail. "Pal Dan Gum" movements. Practice: simple color-coded release method and basic neck release.
  • Unit 3. Pressure technique. Segmental Release Method. 3 essential qualities of therapists. 7 additional points. Practice: release of the head, neck and shoulder segments.
  • Unit 4. Segmental exploration (bilateral acu-points in the head, neck, shoulders and chest). Bodymind associations of the chest segment. Body Focusing techniques to facilitate tension release. Contact. Effects of language. Practice: JSD, Body Focusing and breathing techniques to assist chest release; basic neck release.
  • Unit 5. 6 additional points. Diaphragm, abdominal and pelvic tension patterns and associations. Hara Breathing Meditation. Hygiene; ethics. Practice: body focusing and breathing techniques to assist release of the abdominal and pelvic segments.
  • Unit 6. The 8 Strange Flows, or extraordinary vessels. 10 additional points (on the central channel). Demonstration of sessions utilizing "strange flow" release patterns. Practice: assessment and Strange Flow release patterns for general bodymind relaxation.
Required Class Materials: Color-coded JSD "8 Strange Flows" wall chart © 1981;
Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® Handbook, part 1, © 2009;
The Acupressure Way of Health: Jin Shin Do®, © 1978 by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF / Redwing; originally published by Japan Publications).
Recommended; Chpt. 1-3, A Complete Guide to Acupressure, Revised © 2003 (1st version © 1996) by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications).

Evaluation Method: Take-home test, attendance and demonstration of skills mastered. Teachers give a JSDF transcript, signing off each class upon completion.

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Part 2:  INTERMEDIATE Jin Shin Do®: 55 Hours minimum

Prerequisite: Basic JSD (with Authorized JSD Teacher)

Objectives: participants learn to:
  • Locate over 100 additional acu-points in relation to surrounding anatomy.
  • Describe the twelve organ meridians, differentiating according to location and psycho-physical associations.
  • Differentiate Western and Eastern understanding of physiology.
  • Identify specific acupressure point combinations for meridian release.
  • Demonstrate understanding of local-distal point theory.
  • Identify the legal-ethical role of the acupressurist.
Content:
  • Unit 1. Underlying principles of acupressure and introduction to meridian theory. The Six Divisions. Basic peer counseling skills like active listening, for processing feelings if they come up. Practice: release of the head, neck and shoulders, using the Gall Bladder Meridian.
  • Unit 2-7. Location and psycho-physical associations of the 12 meridians. Location of over 100 additional points in relation to surrounding anatomy. Defense mechanisms and defensive attitudes related to yang meridians; emotional spectra related to yin meridians. Transformation of Qi. Zang/Fu theory. Demonstration of sessions using meridian release patterns. Practice: meridian release patterns (GB/LV; LI/LU; SI/HT; TW/PC; ST/SP; BL/KI; ).
  • Unit 8. Demonstration of specific point combinations for energic problems indicated by muscle spasm, pain or tension. Legal-ethical issues. Building trust. Practice: Assessment of tense segments by palpating main JSD points in the neck, shoulders and torso. Basic pulse reading. Use of local-distal point combinations of appropriate meridians.
  • Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® Handbook
Required Class Materials: Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® Handbook, part 2, © 2009; The Joy of Feeling: Bodymind Acupressure®, © 1984, 2003, by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications). Recommended: Chpt. 4, A Complete Guide to Acupressure, Revised © 2003 (1st version © 1996), by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications).

Evaluation Method: List or chart of meridian associations; demonstration of skills mastered.

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Part 3:  ADVANCED Jin Shin Do®: 30 Hours minimum

Prerequisite: Intermediate JSD

Objectives: participants learn to:
  • Describe the "Five Elements" or "Five Phases" theory and its application to acupressure.
  • Locate 65 additional acu-points in relation to surrounding anatomy.
  • Demonstrate understanding of local-distal point theory using Source, Luo, Tonification, Sedation, Front Mu and Back Yu (Shu) points to relieve bodymind stress.
  • Assess energic imbalance; identify key tension areas through pulse reading and point palpation.
Content:
  • Unit 1. Introduction to "Five Elements" theory of energic inter-relationships; utilizing it in planning specific acu-point combinations. Practice: Combining particular local (Yu and "Windows of the Sky") and distal (Source and Luo) points for back and neck release.
  • Unit 2. Application of 5 Elements theory to energic and muscular hypoactivity or hyperactivity. Pulse reading. Practice: use of tonification and sedation points.
  • Unit 3. Bodymind applications of 5 Elements: the "Emotional Kaleidoscope." Point palpation to assess energic imbalance (Yu, Mu and Windows of the Sky). Practice: improvisation.
  • Unit 4. Demonstration of specific acu-point combinations for energic problems indicated by muscle spasm, pain or tension. Practice: planning interventions to restore bodymind energy balance.
Required Class Materials: Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® Handbook, part 3, © 2009;
The Joy of Feeling: Bodymind Acupressure®, © 1984, 2003, by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications).
Recommended: Chpt. 1-5, A Complete Guide to Acupressure, Revised © 2003 (1st version © 1996), by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications).

Evaluation Method: 2 case studies demonstrating understanding of understanding of meridian and 5 Elements theories.

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Part 4: BODYMIND PROCESSING SKILLS: 25 Hours minimum

Prerequisite: Basic JSD. May be taught by qualified Authorized JSD Teacher; focus varies. (Module IV, Pt. 1 meets this requirement.)

Objectives: participants learn to:
  • To learn simple verbal skills for responsibly dealing with feelings & images that may arise during sessions.
  • To demonstrate basic counseling skills like active listening.
  • To practice the Body Focusing Technique.
  • To describe conscious and unconscious levels of communication and the appropriate use of suggestions. (The unconscious doesn't hear negatives.)
Content:
  • Empathy. Active listening. Body Focusing techniques. Conscious and unconscious levels of communication, and the power of words.
  • Communication skills: including, congruence; avoiding labels; replacing "should-shouldn't" with "I messages" and use of the suggestive form.
  • Accepting: encouraging and following the release process.
  • Understanding the therapeutic relationship: transference and counter-transference (projection).
  • Implications of touch.
  • Ethics: emphasizing confidentiality and refraining from sex with clients.
Required Class Materials: The Joy of Feeling: Bodymind Acupressure®, © 2003, 1987 by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications); Chpt. 6-9, A Complete Guide to Acupressure, Revised © 2003 (1st version © 1996), by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications).

Evaluation Method: Attendance; demonstrate skills.



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MODULE II
100 Hours of Modality Technique and Practice

Parts 1, 2, and 3

This class provides an opportunity for review of point locations, learning optimal angles of stimulation, and integrating theories learned in Module I. In-depth discussions of Strange Flows, Organ Meridians, Zang/Fu, Segments and Five Phases, along with additional theories and special point groups. The bodymind focus of this class varies from teacher to teacher.

Prerequisite: Module I, or the equivalent (Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced JSD with authorized JSD teachers).

Objectives: participants learn to,
  • Demonstrate point location and assessment skills (including pulse reading and point palpation)
  • Describe the 8 Strange Flows in detail and compare with the 12 Organ Meridians.
  • Demonstrate use of acupressure and Body Focusing techniques with common tension/pain problems.
  • Describe special point groups: combining, entry-exit, general and group lo, and accumulation points.
  • Integrate Segmental, Strange Flow, Meridian and 5 Phases theories in designing sessions to reduce stress.
  • Discuss the Zang/Fu, the 6 Divisions, exogenous and endogenous causes of imbalance (including the extreme emotions), 8 Principles, and the Tendinomuscular Channels.

Required Class Materials: Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® Advanced Supplement © 2009; Tendinomuscular Channels Handbook © 2013;
Chpt. 10-20, A Complete Guide to Acupressure, (1st version © 1996), by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications).
The Joy of Feeling: Bodymind Acupressure®, © 1984, 2003 by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications).

Evaluation Method: Attendance and demonstration of skills mastered; practical examination.

Content:

Part 1  INTEGRATION OF KEY THEORIES: 30 Hours
  • A) In-depth study of the Strange Flows, emphasizing their functions and including over 150 Strange Flows points. (Relax! Most of these points were introduced in Module I.) Practice: new SF release patterns. (15 hr.)
  • B) Integration of Strange Flow, Meridian and Segmental theories in assessment and point combinations. Special powerful point groups: Entry/exit points; general and group lo points; the 8 meeting points, associated points, combining points; etc. (15 hr.)

Part 2  MASTER CLASS: 35 Hours
  • A) Refine accuracy of location/angle for 125 main JSD points, while doing 3-part Segmental Release Pattern. Emphasis on body dynamics. (20 hr.)
  • B) Demonstration of assessment skills (point palpation, pulse reading, questioning, listening, looking) and bodymind processing skills. Specific applications of Segmental, Strange Flow, Meridian and Five Phases theory to common problems like neck, shoulder, and back tension/pain, headache, chest/respiratory problems, menstrual / menopausal difficulties, pelvic tension, digestive stress, insomnia, joint problems. Includes focus on bodymind processing skills. (15 hr.)
Part 3  EXPANDING THEORETICAL HORIZONS: 35 Hours
  • A) Causes of imbalance: Exogenous and endogenous causes of dis-ease, including the 6 External Pathogens and the 7 Evil Emotions (reviewed); and the 4 levels (protection, Qi, nutrition, blood). Review 6 Divisions; Zang/Fu theory and curious organs. Fundamental substances. Introduction to the 8 Principles. (21 hr.)
  • B) Tendinomuscular Channels and their relevance to JSD acupressure. Accumulation points. (14 hr.)

MODULE III
70 hours of Clinical Experience

May be obtained as an internship ("in house" at a bodywork school), or as an "externship" (in a supportive professional setting, with supervision from an authorized JSD teacher, acupuncturist, psychotherapist, chiropractor, physical therapist, doctor or other health professional). The entire process of the 70 hours of clinical experience must be supervised by an authorized JSD teacher. (Or JSDF accepts instead 125 logged experience hours.)

Content:
  • Unit 1. Clinical experience using Jin Shin Do acupressure (50 hr.)
  • Unit 2. Direct supervision & discussion of cases (20 hr). To include: greeting and interacting with clients respecting their process, and accepting the negative yet emphasizing (and ending sessions with)the positive. Contraindications. Taking notes; case studies. Legal-ethical questions; JSD Code of Ethics. Business practices.
Evaluation Method: Letters of verification and recommendation from the supervising team, or signed log.

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MODULE IV
70 hours of Bodymind Acupressure® with Iona Marsaa Teeguarden


These classes are not required for becoming a Registered Jin Shin Do® Acupressurist, but are required for becoming an Authorized Jin Shin Do® Teacher.

Content:

Part 1  "BODYMIND TRANCEWORK" (25 hr.):

Prerequisite: Advanced Jin Shin Do® (Module I, part 3)

  • Active listening. Ericksonian techniques for working with the trance or meditative states induced by Jin Shin Do®, in which there is increased receptivity to minimal cues.
  • Suggestive language
  • Indirection
  • Body Focusing and Place of Comfort techniques
  • C.A.R.E. F.O.R.S. outline of body-oriented trancework process
  • Using metaphors
  • Story-telling
  • Exercises to develop therapeutic skills
  • Ethics

Part 2  BODYMIND TRANCEWORK & TRAUMA (25 hr.):

Prerequisite: Module IV, part 1.

  • Focus on healing from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and recovering feelings without retraumatization.
  • Exercises for learning safe, effective "exposure" and "cognitive" therapy techniques that can help reduce PTSD symptoms like hyperarousal.

Part 3  The "Emotional Kaleidoscope" & Abuse Issues (20 hr.):

Prerequisite: Module IV, part 2.

  • Using the "Emotional Kaleidoscope" with Ericksonian techniques and Redecision Therapy to help heal the wounds of abuse and nurture the core Self.
  • The Emotional Kaleidoscope and modes of cognition or personality disorders.

Required Materials: Chpt. 7, 21-22, A Complete Guide to Acupressure, Revised © 2003 (1st version © 1996), by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden (JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications);
The Joy of Feeling: Bodymind Acupressure®, © 1984, 2003 by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden
(JSDF; originally published by Japan Publications).

Evaluation Method: Attendance and practice in class.

For more information on the Module IV classes, see:
  • Classes with Iona Marsaa Teeguarden

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    Intensive Teacher Training Program:

    In-depth training in the teaching of Basic Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure®. Dynamic personal transformative work in demonstrations and practice sessions. 75 hours. Required for Jin Shin Do® teacher authorization and trademark licensure.
    The 1st. I.T.T.P. was in 1982; the 19th was in Pennsylvania in 2014.

    REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE: Module IV with Iona Marsaa Teeguarden; take Master Class (Mod. II, pt. 2) twice; 5 JSD sessions; recommendation from an authorized JSD teacher.

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    General Statements:

    Jin Shin Do® classes are recreational, avocational and adjunctive training (offered at growth centers, health facilities, massage schools and colleges). Authorized Jin Shin Do® teachers are Trademark Licensees, who agree to maintain quality standards set by Jin Shin Do® originator Iona Marsaa Teeguarden and to use required Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® class handbooks to teach the required course content.

    Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® Module I-IV classes are open to anyone who has met the prerequisites by completing the preceding classes (if any) with an Authorized Jin Shin Do® Teacher and who is willing to follow the JSDF Code of Ethics. Men and women of all ages and ethnic or religious origins, from all countries, are welcome. Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended.

    Students may take Module I and II JSD classes from any Jin Shin Do® teacher authorized to teach the classes, and they may take the different classes from different Authorized JSD Teachers (except: a school or teacher may require taking entire courses in-house).

    Required charts for the Basic Jin Shin Do® class are $12. Required class booklets are about $10 each. Cost of required books is given on the Jin Shin Do Product Catalog. (If a teacher requires additional materials, s/he provides an estimate of the cost.)

    JSD teachers use a pass-fail evaluation method. Completion requirements for each class are listed under Class Descriptions, and may be further specified by the Authorized Jin Shin Do® Teacher.

    JSDF encourages repeating classes. Many Authorized Jin Shin Do® Teachers welcome auditors at 1/2 fee if space permits.

    A 1:10 assistant:student ratio is recommended, with assistants being Registered Jin Shin Do® Acupressurists or Advanced JSD students, who can acquire valuable experience through this "Jin Shin Dojo" system.

    Authorized Jin Shin Do® Teachers display gold-embossed certificates of Trademark Licensure and are entitled to use these registered service marks: Jin Shin Do®, Bodymind Acupressure®, and the JSD Encircled Tree logo (®). Trademark licenses are renewed annually.


    CONTACT INDIVIDUAL JIN SHIN DO® TEACHERS TO REQUEST POSTER, BROCHURE OR EMAIL CONTAINING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:
    • Dates and times of classes.
    • Maximum & minimum number of students.
    • Fees for classes. (Vary according to area.)
      Ask if class fee includes $9 JSDF student membership fee: Confidential computerized records of JSD classes taken are maintained for Jin Shin Do® Foundation student members, who are asked to update their addresses with JSDF if they move.
    • Amount of deposit, availability of time payments or work-study programs if any, and availability of lodging.

    CONTACT INDIVIDUAL JIN SHIN DO® TEACHERS FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CLASS POLICIES:
    • Type of document received: To keep track of classes, a JSDF transcript form is given to Basic JSD students and is signed by the teacher after each Jin Shin Do® class, so PLEASE bring it to each ensuing class!
    • Procedure for withdrawal, and refund policy: Unless otherwise stated, refunds are proportionate to the amount of class time remaining at the time of the request for refund. Generally no refunds are given for withdrawals after 50% of the class has been attended, unless there are extenuating circumstances such as illness. Whenever possible, students are allowed to take a leave of absence if necessary, and resume study in a later class with the same teacher. If refunds are not allowed after a certain date - for example, if deposits are non-refundable (due to the need to reserve the teacher's time, flights and class space) - this should be clearly stated in class advertising.
    • Policies related to attendance, including if there is a cost for making up missed classes: To make up lectures, DVDs of Module I: parts 1-3 classes by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden are recommended, and fellow students may record the class for you. To make up the practical portions, it is courteous to pay the Jin Shin Do® teacher or assistant for the additional time involved.
    • Complaint procedure: Make reasonable attempts to resolve complaints directly with JSD teachers, who are independent agents solely responsible for their actions. If complaints cannot be thus resolved, JSDF will attempt to mediate. A complaint must be in writing, factual, addressed to the JSDF Director and Area Coordinators, and emailed to jinshindo@earthlink.net The consensus of responses would be sent to the concerned parties.
    • Re. exams for becoming a Registered Jin Shin Do® Acupressurist: Students pay teachers for their time.

    "Touching, being touched, being in touch,
    these simple things are the magic of Jin Shin Do®"

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    Copyright © 1999 - 2013 Jin Shin Do® Foundation.
    All rights reserved.