The Gut Heart Connection in Manual Therapy with Michael Shea and Sheila Shea

This class is about the deep vascular structures of the abdomen and pelvis. We explore the development of Metabolic Syndrome and new information on the musculo-skeletal and cardiovascular systems of the gut and related viscera. Of special interest is the role of inflammation and an altered gut microbiome on the health of the entire body especially the heart, muscles, bone and fascia. Students will learn specific explorations to contact the mesentery, mesenteric arteries, renal artery, sacrum and respiratory diaphragm for balancing the gut.

The manual therapy being taught will be a blend of massage therapy, craniosacral therapy and Tuina Massage. Contact with acupuncture points will be blended with contact on cardiovascular and fascial structures. Included will be information on Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and how to improve it as it relates to optimal health. Techniques and protocols will be demonstrated to immediately integrate into a clinical-hands on practice. In addition, this class examines specific conditions associated with Metabolic Syndrome such as obesity and autoimmune disorders, so that the student is more clinically effective with such clients.

• Learn about the deeper metabolism of the gut and cardiovascular system.
• Explore the deeper structure of the epithelium of the gut and endothelium of the artery
• Learn to balance the gut microbiome
• Learn how to help inflammatory conditions in the gut