In the metaphorical language of Chinese medicine, trauma scatters the Shen, exiles the sovereign self and cuts off communication between Heaven and Earth. In the language of western psychology, trauma either gradually undermines or suddenly shatters a person’s sense of identity, of who they are and how they connect with the world. Clean Language was originally developed by New Zealand therapist David Grove as a way of working with the trauma of sexual abuse and with Vietnam War veterans.

It is a set of very simple questions that allow the clients to engage with their own inner landscape of trauma with safety, curiosity and creativity. It’s called ‘Clean’ because the questions are designed to keep the client’s space clear of any conscious or unconscious agenda the practitioner may seek to impose. In this way Clean Language invokes the ‘emptiness’ of eastern philosophy into the healing process. In this workshop you’ll learn how to work in a ‘trauma-sensitive’ way, why it’s so vital to respect the client’s boundaries in working with trauma, and how Clean Language can help us to do that.

This experiential workshop is about understanding the links of trauma responses and following the energetic process and to integrate this understanding into our Shiatsu practice and theory. We will acknowledge the energetics of trauma and tap into the brain-body neurophysiology wisdom. We are going to explore the interconnection of the multidimensional aspects of body‘s intelligence. We will grow our skills to fill our ‚tool box‘ and enrich our presence by developing focusing as a metaskill. We will experience neuroplastic partner work exercises to resettle the nervous system and release the energy held in the body. As we establish a journey to our inner landscapes, we learn to create a safe space at a non-verbal level for gaining resilience for ourselves and our clients.

A trauma client is a complex client who is often „treatment resistant“ who also ends up going from one therapist to another seeking resolution. They often come to us broken, no trusting, hypervigilant and overly protective and at times on the brink of losing hope. How do we create the „architecture“ in the client/therapist therapeutic process dealing with innate resistance and protective barriers? A bodymind approach that establishes embodied trust, healthy boundaries, ignites hope and reveals the conflict in the Shen.

How hypnotherapeutic techniques and Shiatsu can help with trauma: Hypnosis has long been used successfully to treat trauma. Trance states are used to get in touch with the subconscious in order to restructure and organize the traumatic memories. Negative memories are weakened and a resourceful state is strengthened. The connection between unwanted emotions and symptoms is decoupled. Trance states are a natural human ability. Shiatsu addresses deep life-affirming powers in people, through physical contact we work with various kinds of trance states. With occurring images, emotions and energetic events. The combination of Shiatsu and hypnosis is an extended way to work with trauma.

Trauma is usually the result of an exceptionally stressful personal experience in which the individual‘s possibilities and resources are insufficient in coping with the experience. This leaves long lasting traces. In the personality. In the soul. In the body. And in the energy system. The latter can provide us with valuable clues how we can touch traumatized people with Shiatsu in the best way possible. Because the traces show a certain pattern: The matrix of trauma.

In this course we will explore the dynamics of how trauma manifests within the meridian system. If we understand the energetics and dynamics of the meridians, we will be able to touch them in the best way possible. An important part of the work focuses on the spirit of the metal element, the Po, as the Po plays a crucial role in the somatic experience of trauma. If the Po is not functioning well, there are multiple symptoms and issues that can occur. On the other hand, the Po enables us to leave our past behind us and move on, despite whatever happened to us.

Wake up! We invite you to start the day together with morning exercises. An important part of the Shiatsu routine. Our instructors do not just do any exercises, but mainly those that have really proven themselves in relation to trauma and its manifestation in the body.

The do-in practice is suitable for dealing with the consequences of a trauma. Whether the source of the trauma is a physical illness or it has a spiritual origin, in both cases an imbalance in the meridian system can be experienced. Approached from the body, the do-in exercises provide help for physical-spiritual processing and the restoration of harmony. The exercises can be considered active meditation. We immerse ourselves in different parts of our body, experiencing its states. We make aware of our well-functioning body parts, experiencing the sustaining power of the body. It is great in trauma healing that during do-in we can develop very simple skills to help ourselves independently. This was very important for me personally when I went through a serious trauma.

Traumatic experiences can have a deep impact on the primary functions of the body as well as many aspects of everyday life. Body and mind often seem to be detached from each other. Simple exercises like barefoot Shiatsu, bring focus and Qi back into the body and reconnect it with the mind. The body serves as a home for the troubled mind – a place from where resilience and strength can start to build. Barefoot Shiatsu is also perfect to start a Shiatsu treatment with trauma patients as it focuses on the physical periphery, giving the client a lot of space while still providing a strong connection and a way of touch that goes deep. Plus, it is easy to perform, also for the laymen like spouses, kids and friends. It can be part of your clients new self-empowering daily routine with the opportunity for loved ones to join and partake in the healing process. Let’s explore the techniques, benefits and the most pleasant feeling of a good barefoot Shiatsu treatment together!

The panel discussions aim to inspire and motivate you. And they want to invite you: Get involved, ask your questions, share your insights, share your views. We look forward to a lively exchange of ideas.

In this panel discussion we want to introduce you to concrete projects in which Shiatsu has already proven its worth: whether in child psychosomatics, in working with refugees from war zones or for victims of trafficking in women and violence. Our experts have successfully established Shiatsu in these areas and will report on their experiences, the possibilities, the obstacles and the successes: How do I get in contact with clinics, institutions or self-help groups? What needs to be considered in this special work? Do I need special prerequisites or additional qualifications? The lively discussion will inspire you to go out with Shiatsu and perhaps be active in similar projects.

Our speakers are ready to answer your questions. Use the opportunity that arises from the combined competence. Get involved with your thoughts and experiences. We look forward to you and your contribution.

An afternoon to digest. An afternoon to apply what we have learned and experienced. An afternoon to share. To get Shiatsu and give Shiatsu. We create the necessary space for this. We accompany you. But how you want to use this space is up to you.