A BountifulHarvest of
Insight
THE NEWSLETTER OF THE ONTARIO POLARITY THERAPY ASSOCIATION
autumn 2001
what isPOLARITY
what do yourTOES
have to say about you
it isELEMENTAL
my dear
more inside���
A BountifulHarvest of
Insight
20 energy currents • autumn 2001
Column
Down:
1. The element related to the Solar Plexus.2. The element related to foundation and
grounding.3. The zodiac sign associated with the feet.4. Refers to the masculine principle.5. This is the negative energy impulse
represented in the caduceus.6. Dr. Stone Says, “The upright staff of the
_________ represents the fine energies of the tree of life, which becomes the spinal cord and the column.”
Across:
2. The wireless anatomy is made up of this essence.
3. The snake of the caduceus represents energy impulses. This is the positive impulse.
7. In Ayurveda, the neutral essence is referred to as _________.
8. The touch of this guna is referred to as light and represents the quality of neutral.
9. The neutral element of the throat chakra.
10. The oscillating disks that transform energy into form.
CrosswordA review for the wise practitioners and students of Polarity Therapy.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
L P O S I T I V E
I A
F R
W I R E L E S S A N A T O M Y
A C R
E T H E R D I G E S T I O N
E L U
R A N D O L P H S T O N E
U E
S
How Did You Do? Answers From the Last Review.
8.
9.
10.
Stone
Quote“The simple facts are similar to the irrigationof the fields of the earth. The farmer goesalong with a shovel and removes theobstacles in the ditches. It is as plain as thatwhen Life is understood.”
Volume One. Book III: page 6.
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energy currents • autumn 2001
Features
What isPolarity?
Science MeetsEnergy
ElementalBodywork
Super ConsciousPsychotherapy
The Languageof Toes
Move toLearn:The Brain Gym®/PolarityRelationship
Autumn 2001
Business
Board Notes:A Messagefrom OPTA’sPresident
Plan Ahead:Calendar
Columns
Review:An Update fromthe Cape
Ask An RPP:Pain and More Pain
What Are YouHaving ForDinnerTonight?:Harvest Menu Ideas
Crossword
Editorials
Editor’s Brief
For ThoughtListen Well
A Messagefrom APTA
Alphabet SoupWhen can you callyourself an RPPor APP?
Sources
MembershipRates & Features
AdvertisingRates & Information
enjoy���
is published by the Ontario Polarity TherapyAssociation quarterly by season. It is released onor about: March 1 (Spring Issue) • June 1(Summer Issue) • September 1 (Autumn Issue) •December 1 (Winter Issue).
Advertising and submissions from writers,photographers, cartoonists and others who wishto contribute are warmly welcomed. Pleaseforward copies of all material with your signatureauthorizing publication in “energy currents”.Submission of material is due one month prior topublication, as follows: February 1 for the SpringIssue • May 1 for the Summer Issue • August 1for the Autumn Issue • November 1 for theWinter Issue
Editing, use and placement of all material will beat the sole discretion of “energy currents”.Copyright infringement is the sole responsibilityof contributing advertisers and authors. No partof this publication may be reproduced withoutthe prior written consent of OPTA.
All articles reflect the view point, thoughts andopinions of the author and are not necessarilythose of the Ontario Polarity Therapy Association.
Distribution of “energy currents” is free tomembers of the Ontario Polarity TherapyAssociation. Extra copies for your practice or forpromotion may be purchased. For more info,please contact OPTA at 416.913.9232.
2 energy currents • autumn 2001
Autumn 2001
ENER Y CURRENTS
Victoria Lorient-Faibish - PresidentR. 416.485.8750 / B. 416.916.6066E. [email protected]
Peggy Barrett - Treasurer / MembershipR. 416.626.8120 / E. [email protected]
Pat Ransom - SecretaryR. 905.939.7519 / E. [email protected]
Laurie Copeland - Director / CommunicationsR. 416.534.1455 / B. 416.534.1960E. [email protected]
Barb Staples - DirectorR. 705.277.2254 / E. [email protected]
Pamela McDonald - DirectorR. 416.532.0653 / E. [email protected]
Jim Fairman - DirectorR. 416.658.7557 / E. [email protected]
It is with great pride and enthusiasm that we began production of the secondedition of Energy Currents. We have received an incredible response to ournew look. The phone calls, emails and messages relayed have all influencedthe work that we are doing now at OPTA. It is the confidence andencouragement of our members and contributors that ensures the growth ofour organization and our little newsletter. And so, the congratulations is to beshared. As is the appreciation. Thank you to all of our contributors, authors,advertisers, members and readers.
In this Autumn edition we have harvested an incredible array of articles andinformation, including an understanding of polarity, a scientific energyperspective, an analysis of the mind, the importance of movement, elementalbodywork procedures and even an examination of your toes! Plus more. So,please enjoy and be aware, as you read through, that your voice is importantto the energy of this organization. We would like to hear from you. You donot have to be a writer to express yourself. We would appreciate submissionsof artwork, photography, book and movie reviews, questions, comments andmore. This is your tool to communicate!
Sincerely,
Laurie Copeland • Editor
Editor’s Brief
`For Thought
In order to listen I will have to listen without obligation, I will have to giveup my intention to hear. If I will let the meaning flow through me like windblowing through leaves, then I can open up loosely to what is being said,instead of howling it down with my intensity.
I can listen to someone without hearing him. Listening is fixing myattention only on the other person. Hearing requires that I listen inside meas I listen to him. Hearing is a rhythm whereby I shuttle between his wordsand my experience. It includes hearing his entire posture; his eyes, hislips, the tilt of his head, the movement of his fingers. It includes hearinghis tone of voice and his silences. And hearing also includes attending tomy reactions, such as the “sinking feeling” I get when the other personhas stopped hearing me.
written by Hugh Prather, “I Touch the Earth, the Earth Touches Me”, 1972
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energy currents • autumn 2001 19
Business
September 10, 2001
Kirsten Hildebrandt, APP, Yoga Instructor20-min. introductory easy yoga to elongate the shoulders andupper back and rib cage. “The Circle of Yoga”. (Experiential)
Victoria Lorient-Faibish BA, RPP (Registered Polarity Practitioner)Integrating the Meridians with Polarity Therapy (Experiential:Please bring padding/pillow/blanket for conference tables, orbring your own massage table or simply use a chair. Eitherway it will work!)
November 12, 2001
Iva Lloyd, BScH, RNC, RPP (Registered Polarity Practitioner)This vivacious and informative speaker is going to fill yourplate talking about one of her specialties: How to interpretsigns, symptoms and diseases according to the five elements.(To include theory & discussion.)
January 14, 2002
Annual General Meeting (will include elections)
Joanne Rutherford, RMTAn experiential presentation on integrating Massage withPolarity Therapy. (To include theory & experiential.)
Plan Ahead��� +
Next OPTA
General Meeting
September 10, 2001
to be held at the North York Central Library5120 Yonge Street • tel.416.395.5535
(at the North York Centre Subway and near the 401)
Doors open 6:30 pm • Meeting 7:00 pm
Come early to view our information and product table.Bring your own products and information to display!
For more information call 416.913.9232
Advertising Info
Registered Polarity Practitioner $50 per annumEnjoy the benefits of your hard work. With this membership you willreceive member’s rate admission to all general meetings, preferredrates for special events and workshops, a complimentary issue of“energy currents” to be delivered to you per publication, and anoptional free listing in the Professional Practitioner Directory to bepublished in each issue of the newsletter and to be available on ourwebsite, coming in the near future. This membership also entitlesyou to vote in the OPTA annual general elections..Associate Polarity Practitioner $35 per annumOPTA supports you in your process. With this membership you willreceive member’s rate admission to all general meetings, preferredrates for special events and workshops, a complimentary issue of“energy currents” to be delivered to you per publication, and anoptional free listing in the Professional Practitioner Directory to bepublished in each issue of the newsletter and to be available on ourwebsite, coming in the near future. This membership also entitlesyou to vote in the OPTA annual general elections.
Student Polarity Practitioner $25 per annumWe encourage you to be a part of the community! Find experiencedprofessionals to help guide you in your studies. With thismembership you will receive member’s rate admission to all generalmeetings, preferred rates for special events and workshops, and acomplimentary issue of “energy currents” to be delivered to youper publication. This membership also entitles you to vote in theOPTA annual general elections.
Business Membership $50 per annumOPTA has developed a new and exciting Business MembershipProgram. With this membership you will receive 5 guest admissionpasses to any of our general meetings (with the exception of theAnnual General Meeting), 5 complimentary issues of “energycurrents” to be delivered to you per publication, and a free businesscard advertisement in the “energy currents” issue of your choice.This membership also entitles your organization to one vote in theOPTA annual general elections.
General Membership $25 per annumEnjoy the same benefits as our Student Practitioners, without thehomework!! With this membership you will receive member’s rateadmission to all general meetings, preferred rates for special eventsand workshops, and a complimentary issue of “energy currents” tobe delivered to you per publication. This membership also entitlesyou to vote in the OPTA annual general elections.
Out of Province Members $25 per annumKeep in touch with what is happening in our community. With thismembership you will receive member’s rate admission to all generalmeetings, preferred rates for special events and workshops, and acomplimentary issue of “energy currents” to be delivered to youper publication. This membership does not allow you to vote in theOPTA annual general elections, as per the Ontario electionsguidelines.
18 energy currents • autumn 2001
Source
Grow With Us!OPTA Membership Rates & Features
For more information, or to become a member please contact OPTA’s Membership Representative,
Peggy Barrett at 416.626.8120 or by email [email protected]
All RPP (RCPP) and APP and memberships are eligible to participate in our new practitionerdirectory. The directory will be published in each edition of “energy currents”, as well as on ourwebsite, which is currently under construction. The information to be included in the directorylisting is as follows: member/business name, Polarity designation, address (region or locale) andtelephone number. Please also indicate whether you would be willing and able to assist studentswith their own therapy for APP and RCPP requirements.
To have your name/business or school included in this directory, please contact the editor, LaurieCopeland by telephone at 416.534.1455 or by email, [email protected] with the aboveinformation. Thank you to those members who have already responded. We apologize for anyinconvenience that this process may cause, however we feel it necessary to ensure that no namesare listed of members that would prefer their information to remain private.
Advertise
Free !
Wow, it is hard to believe how time has absolutely shimmeredand hopped by. So much has been happening at OPTA.
Membership
Membership has increased from 54 to 90!! It would seem thatPolarity Therapy’s time in Ontario has finally come. As a board,we are witnessing the fruits of what we set out as our main focus:to enhance our communication experience within the Polaritycommunity and to amplify the Polarity identity with the generalpublic.
Newsletter
We have received nothing short of rave reviews. At the APTAconference this tool truly made an impact and left a favourableimpression amongst many of the conference attendees. Thistool has become our new calling card so to speak. One that wecan share with our clients, our students, with those interested inexploring the possibility of having a Polarity session or evenstudying this wonderful profession. We look forward to thefuture possibility of putting this newsletter in the offices ofDoctors, Chiropractors, and Naturopaths and in health foodstores. It is exciting to imagine and create all of these wonderfulopportunities to get the good name of Polarity Therapy outthere for all to know.
General Meetings
Our meetings have generated real interest and aninterconnectedness within our growing community. It is heartwarming. The attendance has been just excellent and isgrowing. Thanks and keep it up!! The feedback to our newlocation at the North York Central Library (5120 Yonge St., atNorth York Centre Subway and near the 401) has beentremendous.
Our next meeting is September 10th, 2001 As usual, our socialbegins at 6:30 pm. (Bring your things to sell or promote on ourproduct table.) The meeting will commence at 7:00 pm withKirsten Hildebrandt, (APP, Yoga Instructor) sharing a 20 minuteintroductory yoga warm up (“The Circle of Yoga”) to elongatethe shoulders, upper back and rib cage. Followed by anexperiential workshop facilitated by yours truly. I will be featuringmy passion, “Integrating the Meridians with Polarity Therapy”.Please bring tables, pillows and padding if possible. It isdefinitely more pleasurable on a table, but chairs can work too.There are also a few boardroom tables that can dub as massagetables with the right amount of padding.
Insurance
Jim Fairman, a Polarity student and our newest board member,is assisting with the insurance issue. We are now actively seekingout a group of 40 (minimum) OPTA members to buy professionalinsurance with Nacora. This company, which issues Lloyds ofLondon, is the front runner in providing the entire Canadianholistic profession with comprehensive business insurance.
The deal we have negotiated is for Errors and Omissionsinsurance ($1 million per claim/$2 million aggregate) at $280.00per year plus 8% PST, and Slip and Fall insurance, which alsocovers the sale of products ($1 million limit) at $100 peroccurrence. There are higher coverage rates of say $2 millionetc., but we can start basic and move from there. Havingprofessional insurance is highly recommend. Nacora, specificallyBob Davidson, is a joy to work with. They really understand ourprofession and treat us very respectfully.
Anyone who is interested can contact either myself at 416-916-6066 (email: [email protected]) or Jim at 416-658-7557 (email: [email protected]). We ask those who areinterested to please act quickly.
As your President, I am loving this experience and cannot waitfor more of the wonderment that is coming our way!
Love and blessings to you and yours.
Victoria Lorient-Faibish, BA, RPP,OPTA President, Registered Polarity Practitioner
energy currents • autumn 2001 3
Business
Board Notes - A Message from the President(
416.913.9232OPTA’s New Telephone Number
APTA
4 energy currents • autumn 2001
Editorial
APTA recently held its conference in North Falmouth,Massachusetts. The setting was spectacular, with the hotelsitting on the sea shore. In addition to the inviting atmosphere,there were opportunities to attend informative sessions as wellas participate in community building through both fun andbusiness activities. A number of Canadians were in attendanceand a number have also been busy throughout the yearproviding volunteer service to APTA.
For those of you not present at conference to hear about theaccomplishments of your peers, David Park was Chair of theEvents Committee, Iva Lloyd was Chair of the FinanceCommittee, and Sher Smith was Chair of the Teacher’s EventCommittee. Both Iva and David were awarded “OutstandingService” awards.
Each of these people have done excellent work for APTA andwe are ever so thankful to both them and all Canadian membersfor your efforts in support of APTA and Polarity Therapy.
While at conference, Peggy Barrett shared with me a copy of thenew OPTA newsletter. Wow, what a wonderful publication. Iheard many very positive comments, and I also heard thatfifteen new members joined OPTA on location at the APTAconference. Congratulations all!
This particular conference received a great deal of public press.The Boston Globe printed an article about polarity and cancerafter interviewing Dr. Mary Jo Ruggieri, member of the APTABoard of Directors, and owner and Director of the ColumbusPolarity Institute. This article sparked quite a bit of public interestand APTA has received a significant number of inquiries since itspublication. The Boston Globe reporter attended Dr. Ruggieri’ssession at the conference and continues to be interested inPolarity Therapy. If you would like to know more of the specifics,see an article in the latest APTA newsletter, Energy, titled“Polarity Therapy Goes To Medical School.” A public clinic wasalso held at conference and was well attended. Isn’t this anexciting time for Polarity Therapy?
My regards to all. Please let APTA know what it can do tosupport your efforts and best meet your needs.
LaRose S. Daniels, RPPPresident of APTA (American Polarity Therapy Association)
A Message from
www.polaritytherapy.ca
OPTA On-Line.
Coming Soon.
Please direct your letters, opinions orquestions to:
Energy Currents Attn: The Editorc/o InZane Visual CommunicationsStudio 203 - 61 Elm Grove AvenueToronto, Ontario Canada M6K 2J2
or by fax at 416.531.9123or email to [email protected] .
vegetable glycerin soaps made with natural,pure, rawhoney
thosebrilliant
bees 416.534.1455
energy currents • autumn 2001 17
Column
continued...
Tomato Buttermilk Pasta Salad
1 28 oz. tin plum tomatoes, drained 1 1/2 tsp garlic, finely chopped1 tsp. salt1/4 tsp. black pepper1 cup mayonnaise1 1/4 cup buttermilk450 grams fusilli6 plum tomatoes, cut into medium chunks1/2 cup fresh basil, finely sliced
Place tomatoes and garlic in the work bowl of a food processor;process until completely pureed. Add mayonnaise, salt, pepper,and buttermilk. Process again until you have a smooth sauce.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil; salt it. Put in the pasta and cook,stirring occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking together, for 8to 10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.Allow to drain. When the pasta is drained, combine with thedressing in a large bowl. Slice the basil leaves finely; add them andthe tomatoes to the pasta. Allow to sit for 30 minutes before servingfor the flavours to blend. Serves 8.
Air: Buttermilk Fire: tinned tomatoes, pasta, garlic Water: fresh tomatoes, basil
Grilled Eggplant with Yogurt Sauce
3 cups plain yogurt3 small eggplants, about 3 lb.olive oil1/2 tsp. salt1/4 tsp. pepper1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped2 green onion, finely chopped2 cloves garlic, minced2 - 3 plum tomato, finely diced
Place the yogurt in a sieve lined with a coffee filter or a double layerof cheesecloth and let it drain over a bowl for 2 hours. Top and tailthe eggplants and cut into 3/4 inch slices. Sprinkle with salt to sweatout the bitterness.
Preheat the BBQ or grill to medium. Lightly brush both sides of theeggplant slices with olive oil and grill or broil until golden brown onboth sides and completely tender, about 4-5 minutes per side.Remove from the heat and arrange attractively on a platter to cool.
When the yogurt has finished draining, place in a bowl and stir inthe salt, pepper and garlic and chopped green onion Spoon thedressing over the eggplant. Scatter the tomatoes over the top andthen sprinkle the chopped herbs over top. Serves 8.
Air: Yogurt Fire: garlic, green onion, olive oilWater: eggplant, tomato, parsley, basil
Summer Fruit Crumble
10 cups of fruit; mix in what you like. Create a new combination.2 cups apple (peeled & sliced)2 cups pear (peeled & sliced) Pears naturally sweeten the fruit mix2 cups nectarines (peeled and sliced)2 cup blueberries2 cup raspberries1/3 cup white sugar ( depends on which fruit you use)pinch of cinnamon (pinch = 1/8 tsp and brings up flavour of the fruit)
Place all fruit in a large bowl and add the sugar and cinnamon. Pourinto a large baking dish.
For the crumble topping:3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted2 cups rolled oats1/2 cup all-purpose flour, or whole wheat1/2 cup light brown sugar, well packed1/4 cup granulated sugar
Mix all ingredients in a medium bowl. Loosely mound the crumblemixture over the fruit base in baking dish. Bake in a preheated ovenat 375°F for 40 - 45 minutes, or until fruit bubbles up around edges.
Air: fruit Fire: oats, flour Water: Butter Earth: white & brown sugar
Stone Quote“Thinking is motion of mind substance which must beaccommodated as expression of some type in bodymotion, to balance the rhythmic impulses as a naturalsequence of events, of sensory and motor action. This ideaalso explains the benefits of the rocking chair, the swingand the rocking horse of childhood days.”
Volume Two. Book V: page 94.
N
Avocado Crumble Salad with Roma Tomato Coulis
Salad:1 english cucumber, seeded (cut into _ “ slices)4 avocados (sliced & coated with lime juice)1/2 cup italian parsley (flat-leaf), coarsely choppedAbout 30 of your favourite black olives1 loaf corn bread or muffins
Coulis:12 roma tomatoes (plum tomatoes)1 tblsp. fresh basil, chopped1/2 tsp. ground white pepper1/4 tsp. celtic sea salt, or to taste
Cut an “X” at the base of each tomato. Blanch tomatoes. Peel andseed them over a strainer, saving the strained juice. In a blender orfood processor, puree pulp and juice. The mixture should not betotally smooth. Transfer mixture to a saucepan. Heat to boiling,reduce to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes. Add herbs, whitepepper, salt and cook an additional 3 minutes. Cooking the tomatoremoves the water element. Cool before serving. Makes 4 cups.
To assemble salad:Arrange cucumber around inner rim of serving plate and spoontomato coulis into the centre, inside the cucumber border. Place theavocado slices in the centre of the plate, on top of the tomatocoulis. Sprinkle parsley and olives over avocados. Crumble cornbread into large croutons and sprinkle all over the salad. Serves 8.
Air: avocado, olive Fire: cooked tomato, cornbreadWater: cucumber, parsley
Herbed Cornbread
This is my favourite cornbread recipe. A Fire Recipe.
1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour2/3 cup cornmeal2/3 cup sugar1/2 cup corn flour2 tsp. baking powder1/2 tsp. saltI tsp. of fresh rosemary, chopped I tsp. of fresh thyme, chopped1 1/2 cup milk5 tblsp. Melted butter 1 egg, beaten
Mix wet ingredients in a small bowl and then add to the dryingredients. Mix just until blended. Pour batter into a greased 8 x 8pan or a loaf pan. Bake at 350°F for 35-55 minutes. Test fordoneness by inserting a wooden skewer. When it comes out clean ,the cornbread is done. (For variety, add your favourite herb. This isgreat toasted and eaten as a snack.)
Lemon Rosemary Chicken
2 clove garliczest of 2 lemons (after removing zest, cut away pith)juice and flesh of 2 lemon 1/2 cup dijon mustard4 tblsp. fresh rosemary, choppedfresh ground peppersalt to taste8 chicken breast or thigh
Place garlic and lemon zest, salt and pepper in a bowl of thecuisinart and puree. Add the remaining ingredients and puree. Pourmarinade over chicken and place in refrigerator for 24 hours.
Grill on the BBQ, starting with the serving side down. (This makes itlook better when serving.) Bake at 375° F for 40 - 45 minutes forboneless chicken. Bake for 55 - 60 minutes for chicken with bone in.
Air: Chicken, lemon Fire: garlic, dijon mustard Water: Rosemary
16 energy currents • autumn 2001
Column
witness yourself���
build health
achieve relaxation
gain tools and resources thatempower and fulfill you
set and achieve your goals
pamela mcdonaldcustomized resource development coaching
����������pmcdonaldr@aol�com
Reiki (Master)Polarity TherapyCranial Sacral TherapyIridology & HerbologyNew Decision TherapyEducational KinesiologyCustomized Life CoachingIntuition Development
Summer’s Harvest Menu Ideas
The summer continues to provide its bounty as our local farmersharvest their crops. With plenty of fresh local produce to chosefrom, we can create any range of delicious and nutritious meals, andincorporate the elements. Here are a few recipes to enjoy. I havelisted the ingredients by element so that you can choose what it isyou are having for dinner tonight!
These recipes are a blend of air, fire, water and earth. (Ether is oftenincorporated into your diet by keeping your menus varied andinteresting ,as well as in the presentation of your meals. What wouldit be like to use your creative skills?) If you wanted to consume moreof one element than another, simply increase any of the ingredientsto suit your needs.
What Are You Having For
Dinner Tonight??by Pamela McDonald 6
energy currents • autumn 2001 5
Feature
The answer to what is Polarity is as elusive as a butterfly. That isbecause it encompasses so very much. It works with the body,mind, soul and spirit. A session may include bodywork, exercise,nutritional components, communication aspects or looking atthought processes.
Body work can use simple techniques or involved sequences. Allare designed to bring the body into a state of relaxation. In astate of relaxation, the body’s innate drive for health will use thatperiod of time to reconnect, reunite and re-establish naturalrhythms and energy flow. So, it is from within the client that thetrue movement to health is rekindled. The body has an innateintelligence and desire for Health inherent within it’s system.Understanding the energetics allows a practitioner to be able toassess where a client is at energetically and what type of energysession is going to be the greatest support in their process atthe present time. There are protocols for relaxation for allsystems of the body, including the nervous system, for structure,for tension release and more.
Each exercise enhances different qualities of energy. Thisunderstanding allows a practitioner to suggest exercises that willbest support their client, relative to their current energy state.Exercises are selected for each client based on where their bodyis at when come for a session, as well as on where they decidethey want to move to in their Health Building process.
The same applies to nutrition. Every food has specific qualitiesof energy within it’s makeup. By knowing about the energeticsof food, the practitioner can then share this knowledge withtheir client so that they can choose to enhance their HealthBuilding process.
There is also an energy component involved withcommunication and thought processes. This is relative to thosebetween client and practitioner, client and themselves, andclient with others in their relationships. Repeating a negativethought over and over is like building a groove in one’s mind.Since most of our thinking and automatic responses come fromthe subconscious such grooves end up directing how weinteract with our world. Energy follows thought and precedes achange in structure and form. To create change, one must firstchange their thinking.
All aspects of Polarity involve the understanding and use of theenergy theory. Energy and how it flows, or doesn’t, is the key to
health. Everything in the universe is here because of energy insome form. Knowing how energy is meant to flow in the bodyallows a practitioner to assist the client in moving to a higherstate of balance in their body and their life.
Dr. Randolph Stone DO, ND, DC founded Polarity. He circledthe globe many times in search of the secrets to health. He hadthe ability to distill everything he looked at, down to coreessence: What rebuilds health is energy. Dr. Stone took vastamounts of knowledge that he had acquired from around theglobe and, drawing heavily on Ayurvedic and Chinese Medicineprinciples, he combined it all with his understanding of westernmedicine and created Polarity Therapy.
The energy of the body is electromagnetic. Dr. Stone, in hisbook called “Health Building”, refers to the secret of theelectromagnetic energy as being it’s connection with thechemistry of the body. Thus, Polarity Therapy is both an art anda science. The physiology of the body follows the cerebrospinalfluid radiations in their functions as electromagnetic waves, andcan be applied in practice with the hands as polarity of positiveand negative poles. The science of Polarity Therapy can beproven by applications of electromagnetic energy wavesthrough the right and left hands to opposite parts of any area init’s three dimensions of space.
This then, is a simplistic overview of the art and Science ofPolarity Therapy. Each person will have their own personalexperience with the work. It is therefore best, in order tounderstand Polarity Therapy more fully, to have a personalsession or to experience the work by taking a course. PolarityTherapy becomes a way of life and a fascinating, never-endingjourney into the world of energy and Health Building.
Sher Smith RN, RPP, RCST has been involved in the Holistichealing field since 1979. Her professional training is varied andcomprehensive, including studies in Cranial Sacral Therapy withFranklyn Sills and the Upledger Institute and certification inNeuro-Linguistic Programming, Educational Kinesiology, Reikiand Touch for Health. Sher is the founding President of theOntario Polarity Therapy Association, a member of theAmerican Polarity Therapy Association, a member of the CranialTherapy Association of the United Kingdom, and is a Directorwith the RYP school of Polarity Therapy, teaching an approvedAPP & RPP course.
What is Polarity?by Sher Smith, RN, RPP, RCST
???
Extra... Extra...Issues of Energy Currents can be purchased for $6.00 each.For more information or to place your order, contact OPTA
at 416.913.9232 or email [email protected]
6 energy currents • autumn 2001
Editorial
This is a short note to inform and/or remind you of currentPolarity Practitioner status guidelines.
Only APTA grants APP or RPP status. To be granted APP(Associate Polarity Practitioner) or RPP (Registered PolarityPractitioner) status, a practitioner must meet the prerequisitesrequired by the American Polarity Therapy Association(APTA), submit the necessary monies and apply for status.Then, and only then, can one claim or put in writing that theirstatus is such. In order to maintain status as an APP or RPP,registration by membership must be renewed annually toAPTA, otherwise the corresponding titles are no longerlegitimate. This is common to many health organizations, suchas Nursing and Massage Therapy.
As the years pass, the prerequisites are increasing to obtainsuch status. Those who keep up their status will not have tomeet any new requirements unless informed of that need byAPTA. However, once status has lapsed, then to reapply,would require having to meet the new prerequisites. Forexample, one such addition that is coming in the near future,is that the orthodox anatomy prerequisite will be increasingby 10 in-class hours. Without a doubt, it is easier to maintain
status than it might be to have to re-apply for it! Please keepup your APTA and OPTA memberships as a matter ofprofessional course.
From the OPTA Board of DIrectors with assistance from ourAPTA liaison, Sher Smith, RN, RPP, RCST, Co-director with theRYP school of Polarity Therapy.
Important OPTA Notice
Alphabet Soup When can a Polarity Practitionerrefer to themselves as an APP or RPP?
Double Meditation CD Set by Victoria Lorient�Faibish B�A� RPP (Registered Polarity Practitioner)
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Stone Quote“Only on this earth is the fullness of experience possible,because all phases of matter - subtle and gross - arerepresented here, plus the emotions and the mind to actand react in those fields. When we experience the results ofsome of our desires, let us not feel sorry for ourselves insuffering nor forget the grand opportunity thus presentedto learn our lessons here. Rather let us benefit thereby andfind the Path of Liberation from all this limitation of mindand matter in the depths of our being.”
Volume One. Book III: page 6.
Only APTA can grant APP or RPP status.
Learning is that magical thing that takesplace in a split second that changes usforever.
Movement is the door to learning(learning with the whole brain, heart andbody).
Paul Dennison
Paul Dennison, with a Ph. in reading andlearning, founded the Valley RemedialLearning Centres in California. He hasdedicated the last 30 years tounderstanding brain organization, childmotor development and learning. He isthe creator of “Brain Gym®”, movementswhich facilitate that split second oflearning.
Brain Gym® movements (Brain Gyms) areused in Educational Kinesiology (Edu-K).Edu-K is a five step process developed tobalance the body/mind. It’s namecombines the Latin words educare (todraw out) with kinesiology (the study ofmovement). Edu-K is based on more than80 years of research by leading scientists.It’s roots go back through centuries toancient wisdoms. (Promoted as aneducational model for schools, Paul hasdiscovered that it is best to emphasize thescience.)
What Brain Gym is to Edu-K, Edu-K is toPolarity Therapy. Polarity Therapy is thelarger field, of which Edu-K is a vital aspect.In the language of Polarity, Brain Gym®
would be considered an air modality, as itis concerned with mind energy.
Brain Gym® focuses on the core musclesand the neurological wiring between the
brain and body that make up the sixpointed star in Polarity. Through a series ofsimple steps, clients are able to work onaspects of their development which havenot been fully integrated. This canfacilitate the process of letting go to makeroom for new learning and more efficientbehaviour patterns.
In Brain Gym® we educate ourselves byfirst being aware of how we react. Then,we project an intention from the mind,check our body's reflection and move itinto a more current and resourced state.
Movement is energy and energy is alwaystriune (moving between a positive to anegative through a neutral field). BrainGym® follows the evolutionary triunebrain research of Dr. Paul Maclean. Hedivided the brain into 3 areas: the brainstem as reptilian (concerned with survival),the mid brain /limbic as the mammalian(emotional /cognitive) and the neo cortexas the highest (intellectual and creativebrain). From the Polarity perspective ofthe ovals, the head is considered the fireoval. “Each oval is polarized into superior(+), middle (Ø), and lower (-) poles. Thenegative gathers the force and becomespositive to all centres below it”, said Dr.Randolph Stone, the founder of PolarityTherapy (Book IV, pg14). Stone goes on totalk about the inner energy reflecting thevital energy tension from the medulla andthe vital force of the sacrum reacting.Once a pattern has been established(earth), it needs to be brought toconscious awareness (air) to initiate a shift.Paul Dennison discovered that by addingdirected movement (more of the fireaspect) and the specific Brain Gyms, a
shift was greater, easier and longerlasting. Dr. Stone said it another way:"Mind energy patterns are expressed inthe body, and the body returns thecompliment by impressing itself on themind" (Book V, pg 48)
Like a Polarity session, an Edu-k balance isinteractive; between the client and thefacilitator. It is about being and knowingwhere you are, so you can set theintention to move to where you would liketo be. Intention supports and nurtures thelearner to access innate intelligence. Edu-K can be a tool for self realization.
Dr Stone said, "When the life principle ofman is uncomfortable in this house, itmeans that his energy is not able to passout over his own fields and parts tooperate and nourish them" (BKIV pg12)Have you ever felt that you were lockedinto a pattern of one reaction to asituation? While we cannot changesomeone else and cannot always changeour circumstances, we can change ourreactions. As we allow ourselves to bewho we are, we enable others to be whothey are. Together we make a whole. BrainGym® can help.
At Edu-k, we believe that “no matter howmany times we repeat a learned task, thewhole brain/body system experiences theease and joy of the new way. All formerpatterns can be released in a moment.This, for us, is learning.” (Paul Dennison)
Daphne Duckworth is a certified BrainGym® instructor who is also an RPP intraining. She has a business in Barrie,Ontario and welcomes your calls at (705)725-0773 or you can e-mail her atdaphneduckwor th@hotmai l . com.BrainGym® is a registered trademark ofthe Educational Kinesiology foundation ofVentura California. For more informationcall 1-800-356-2109 or check out theirwebsite at www.braingym.org.
Move to LearnThe Brain Gym® / Polarity Relationship
by Daphne Duckworth
energy currents • autumn 2001 15
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>
My client suffers profound chronic pain in her body. She hasbeen diagnosed with Arthritis, fibromyalgia and Diabetes.She is in her late 60’s. She is on serious medication. She hasnot worked with any kind of holistic program previous toworking with me. Any suggestions or techniques etc…
I always find it challenging to work with people that, for whatever reason, have not taken charge of their health and havewaited until symptoms are so bad that the only relief they cansee is with serious painkillers and medication. The good news isthat Polarity Therapy can assist at any point in a client’s process.
Energy goes to priority, so let us first address the pain. Have youconsidered various foam shapes to raise the knees or the arms?I find that taking the pressure off the lower back is oftenexcellent for bringing a client to a calmer state. Also, the fetalposition is a good way to encourage a sense of nurturing andease. You may also want to dab a little lavender oil on a few neckand wrist points to encourage relaxation and tranquillity. A warmheating pad is also great for that. This client seems to be inoverwhelm, so conversation about nutrition may be too muchinitially. Later on in the process, a food by element conversationmight be of benefit, once her life urge has strengthened as aresult of regular Polarity Therapy sessions. As far as techniquesgo, anything that works to relax the nervous system may bebeneficial. For example, the tendon guard reflex, all ether work,and the x- techniques on all the joints and on tender vertebrae.Any kind of myofascial work on sore areas in order to assiststored cellular memory trauma to exit the body’s tissues can betransformational. Cranial work is wonderful to encourage a stillpoint where profound healing can occur. The complete ear
session has an extremely relaxing effect on the body. I wouldinclude lots of sacred geometry work as well (the 5 and 6pointed stars) and of course, I would include long versions of thechakra balancing sessions. Eventually, I would also engage insome communication with this client to see what patterns are atwork that have prevented her from dealing with her ailments.
Hope this helps. Most importantly use your intuition and askyour client what she needs. Blessings to you.
This edition’s featured RPP is Victoria Lorient-Faibish, BA, RPP(Registered Polarity Practitioner). Victoria is a holistic practitionerand teacher who has been inspiring people to live more magicallives for over 10 years. For more information contact Victoria at416.916.6066. or visit www.visualizationworks.com.
14 energy currents • autumn 2001
Column
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The opinions expressed within featured editorials do not necessarilyreflect the opinions of OPTA, but those of the author. If you have aquestion or a topic that you would be interested in hearing about,please contact the editor by email [email protected], orforward to: Energy Currents c/o The Editor, 61 Elm Grove Avenue,Studio 203, Toronto, Ontario M6K 2J2, or fax to 416.531.9123.
energy currents • autumn 2001 7
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Life force, subtle or energetic anatomy, earth medicine, chakras,auras, and meridians are words often expressed when discussingthe Human Energy Field.
The classical Chinese acupuncturists believe that channels ofenergy run through the body and when these channels areblocked or out of balance pain and disease can result. Thetherapeutic touch practitioner use their hands to balance theHuman Energy Field believing that, when in balance, the body willbegin to automatically heal. The Reiki Master working withUniversal Life Energy uses light hand placements which theybelieve will change energy, giving the recipient the ability to bringoptimal health to their body.
The Polarity Therapy Practitioner using various touches, rockingmovements or specific acupressure or reflex points believe energyfollows form and has distinctive patterns of flow and when inbalance create health and healing. The Brennan healingtechniques, which were developed by a former NASA physicist,uses specific hands-on techniques that work with balancing energycentres throughout the body to create a natural form of healing.
The research surrounding the practices of energy medicine isprofound. Results of numerous studies show energy therapies canrelieve pain, speed up healing from trauma based injuries,positively affect people during surgery as well as influence thehealing process of cancers, arthritis, fibromyalgia and many otherauto-immune problems.
According to James Oschman, PhD, in his new book “EnergyMedicine”, in a few decades scientists have gone from aconviction that there is no such thing as an energy field around thehuman body to an absolute certainty that it exists. Moreover hestates, science is explaining the roles of energy fields in health anddisease.
Involved in the unique theories and science of Polarity Therapy, isthe concept that life energy must flow in and through the body ina smooth and uninterrupted pattern to maintain optimal health.Dr. Randolph Stone, the founder of Polarity, suggests in hiswritings that the energy fields existing in and around the physicalbody are where the mind, and emotions reside in physical space.Therefore, what we experience is recorded in our energy field andreflected in our physical body as structure, form and function. What does this mean to us individually! We just may want toinclude on our top ten health care providers list an Energy
Medicine Practitioner. Why wait until a disease manifests on aphysical level – prevent it. There is knowledge that each organ inthe body and every functioning process of the body generatecertain energetic characteristics and fields of electrical patternsthat can be detected through self awareness, therapeutic touchand now certain measuring devices. Prevention works!
Our future in Energy Medicine is in realizing that our currentmedical tests wait until the problem can be seen only in ourphysical body – blood tests, pap tests, chest x-rays, and brainscans. By the time we detect cancer in our bones, or our colon itis already a major problem.
By becoming aware of different characteristics of energy pulsesand energy patterns in the body we could map the way diseasesalter these patterns and discover the problems on an energeticlevel before it manifests on a physical level. What an insight todisease control! Energy Medicine Practitioners can help the clientsense distorted energy fields and locate the origin and reason forthe pain.
In Polarity Therapy, we look for where energy is blocked andwhere there are pain patterns that are not open for optimalenergy movement. Through applying certain contact points, orusing techniques that will release these painful holding patternsthe energy returns to normal flow and the physical body heals.Turn on the Circuit Breakers!
Yoga as well as Tai Chi and Qigong practitioners feel that a senseof health and well being can be created through the study of thehuman energy field. By doing a daily practice of yoga, forexample, a personal awareness is created that keeps the lightsburning and personal energy in balance.
For starters, I am recommending Energy Awareness Practice - tryit once a day. Sit comfortably in a chair, take your own pulse onyour wrist or your neck with one hand. Close your eyes andbreathe deeply while holding your pulse. Now get in touch withyour pulse and your breath, feel it, listen to it, and observe itspatterns. Continue for two or three minutes. Next, continue sittingin a chair, keeping your eyes closed, rub your palms togethercontinuously for one minute and then slowly separate your hands,holding them slightly apart. Breathe deeply while observing whatis going on between your hands. Energy Awareness Techniquesare just the tip of the iceberg that can melt away some of our oldfashion ideas on healing.
Mary Jo Ruggieri, PhD, RPP, is a retired Ohio State UniversityProfessor. She served as an Olympic Games coach in “84, ’88, and’92 when she took her athletes to the gold medal. Dr. Ruggieripractices and teaches Polarity Therapy certification courses inColumbus, Ohio where she founded the Columbus PolarityTherapy Institute.
Science Meets Energyby Mary Jo Ruggieri, PhD, RPP }
8 energy currents • autumn 2001
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It is a well known and tried and testedsaying that we may only lead anotherwhere we ourselves have been, so inorder to work with others and encouragethem into a recognition and furtherexploration of the five elements as theymanifest within them, we have to be ableto 'be' in each element ourselves. Aspolarity therapists, we are familiar withthe manifestations of each of theelements and the body parts associatedwith each. We know that releasingholding in the neck, for instance, effects arelease in the digestive area, just listen toall that peristaltic activity! It alsoencourages a general 'letting go' in theentire system, the neck being the controlcentre for the body. The release howeverwill be all the more effective if we canalso 'let go' in the area that is beingworked. The client then responds, byresonance, to our relaxation in thecorresponding area. The release in us istransmitted subtly through our hands.Any release can be further encouragedby the appropriate use of touch on ourpart and can include movement thatresonates with the particular element weare working with.
Satvic touch is employed to relax theclient and allow time for the energy fieldsto open and expand as it encourages theactivation of the ether element. Theclient becomes receptive to our presenceand touch and engages with the process.We need to recognize when the client'ssystem needs the space and time toassimilate new information as the energyis re-organised through bodywork. Every
time we aid the release of holding in thebody or stimulate the energy in an areawe need to return to ether to allow boththe client and ourselves the time to listen,re-assess and acknowledge thecommunication that is taking place. Weneed to be comfortable in just 'being'and waiting and able to get ourconscious mind (I need to 'fix' thisperson) out of the way.
In order to then encourage energy tomove through a clients system it isimportant to activate the air element andthis is best achieved with rajas. Rockingthe body parts or applying a gentlestretch or traction to the body and thenrocking or pulsing can enable this tohappen. Free fluid movement throughyour own body will be transmitted to theclients and all that movement helps startthe letting go process. Maintaining yourown even deep breathing as you work,entrains the client to also let go of anyholding of the breath. By taking a lighthold of the clients ankles whilst they lieon their back, and pulsing the body fromside to side also quickly allows you bothto recognize where the holding is in thesystem. This kind of pulsing can also beparticularly beneficial when you notice,during a session, that the client's bodyspontaneously moves from side to sidecreating a snake like movementculminating with a slight shaking of thehead from side to side. Often this kind oftension pattern in the body is indicativeof an internal conflict or being in asituation that one does not want to be in.It is as if the body is saying 'No'. By
encouraging and accentuating thismovement, and you may need to beprepared to pulse for several minutes,you are in a sense encouraging orintensifying the 'No' response and thisexaggeration often enables the client torecognize and acknowledge the conflictwithin. To maintain this easy pulsingrhythm and notice when it changes andrespond accordingly, means you have tostay in your air element throughout,shifting and changing direction of thepulsing impulse as the body changeswith each release. Beware if you have atendency to be naturally in your airelement a lot . Too much air in you canintroduce too much air into your clientssystem and for some people this is toomuch. I had a very airy friend that I usedto swop sessions with and by the end ofthe my session my nervous system wasbuzzing and my digestion was goingberserk. My system was certainlyactivated and then some!
Fire, is in many ways the most interestingof the elements in terms of your ability toencourage and acknowledge its effectsin others. Fighting fire with fire meansthat you have to be comfortable in yourfire energy in order to engage withsomeone else's. Fire responses can beencouraged by tamasic touch, which isdirect and deep. It demands a reaction,often goading someone into respondingto the touch. If you are uncomfortablewith fire energy and it is an energy thatcauses problems in your life, you areunlikely to be comfortable taking yourclient in those fiery arenas. As with all the
Elemental BodyworkThoughts on encouraging elemental
response through appropriate touch.
by Morag Campbell, RPT
ether
airfire
water
earthHave you ever looked at someone’s toes - or maybe your ownand wondered why a toe was bent a certain way, longer orshorter than another toe or just different. Toes tell a story, youjust need to spend a little time to understand the language.
Physiology and medical science looks beneath the skin forexplanations of health, behaviour and responses but the art of‘physiognomy’ or reading the body stays on the surface,studying features, alignment, size, shape, colour andmovement. The understanding is that an individual’s nature orenergetic patterns are a hologram and what is on the inside ismirrored on the outside.
Toes are the most crystallized expression of the body/mind, theyare akin to the material plane of manifestation. Hence, toesrepresent patterns that have been around for a long time, unlikefingers which represent the current patterns of our life. There arefive toes on each foot - one for each of the elements. Starting atthe big toe and going lateral (towards the outside of the body)we have the Ether, Air, Fire, Water and Earth toe. Each toerepresents all the qualities of that element, but as a generalguideline the Ether toe represents purpose and the effect of theexternal environment; the Air toe the intellect; the Fire toe theemotions; the Water toe represents ways that we nurtureourselves - often indicated by food; and the Earth toe representsthe structural side of ourselves. Left foot represents the left sideof body and receptivity to our environment in general. The rightfoot represents the right side of the body and issues that focuson our self-expression.
Toe reading not only gives you a clue to the energetic makeupof a person, but also provides insight into energetic patternsthat may be unbalanced, in excess or deficient. Learning to readtoes is about noticing, being aware, understanding theelements and being able to interpret the energetic patterns thatare displayed. Every deviation, colour difference, size, positionand spacing of the toes tells a little bit of the story and willprovide a practitioner with insight on how to best communicateto their client.
For example, if there is a large space between the ether toe andthe air toe it often indicates that it takes that person awhile tointegrate information and hence you may find that you need tomove slowly with a client. If the air toe is longer than the ethertoe it often indicates that the person, although intellectual, can
become overwhelmed with a lot of information. If the air toe andfire toe appear to be joined in a horseshoe fashion (the creaseof the toes does not go down as far as the other toes) it oftenindicates that emotions and thoughts are linked and the personmay find it difficult to separate how they are thinking from howthey are feeling. If the water toe is ‘hidden’ under the fire toe itis often an indication that the person eats emotionally.
Some general guidelines for toe reading is to recognize that all‘movement’ is a message. Spaces between toes indicate aseparation between those two elements and hence a need fortime or space for integration. Lines, grooves or areas ofdiscolouration indicate areas of blocked energy. Movementaway from centre may indicate that the element is not in linewith the inner source or purpose of a person; whereasmovement towards centre may indicate that person’s energy ispulled inward and they may be avoiding external energies orinformation. Toes gripping (hammer toe) often relate to fear orsensitivity around that element. Toes off the ground relates toungrounding.
The art of ‘physiognomy’, and toe reading specifically is afascinating field. I encourage you to practice the art of toe readingand to expand your awareness of the language of the toes.
Iva Lloyd, BScH, RPP, RNC managed the retail division of IBMCanada for 6 years. She currently teaches at the Reaching YourPotential Polarity School and and is on the Faculty at theColumbus Polarity Centre. Iva is interning at the CanadianCollege of Naturopathic Medicine.
energy currents • autumn 2001 13
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The Language of the Toesby Iva Lloyd, BScH, RNC, RPP
{
Polarity Therapy • Reiki • Flower EssencesCranial Sacral • Brain Gym®
Health Building • Energizing • Actualizing Potential
Discover your Self by awakening the within.
Peggy BarrettHealth & Life Essence Practitioner(416) 626-8120 • [email protected]
12 energy currents • autumn 2001
Column
"If I had a day that I could give to you, I’d give to you a day justlike today", is a line from a song written and performed by the lateJohn Denver. It is also the line that Mary Jo Ruggierri chose toopen her all day workshop called Cancer Rehab Through ThePolarity Therapy Model. John Denver was referring to SunshineOn My Shoulders, and in the last line of the verse to this song, hewrote, "I’d make a wish for sunshine all the while". Mary Jowished this for all of us present at her workshop and also foreveryone else attending the International Polarity TherapyConference held this past June in beautiful Cape Cod. WhereJohn used the word "Sunshine", Mary Jo inserted the word"Light". She wished for us a day filled with "Light" and that iswhat we were given through her enthusiastic presentation of well-documented and practical new approaches to a disease processthat has bewildered Western Medicine for many decades. Shebrings "light’ to her clients, her students and generously sharesthis with us, her fellow Polarity Therapy practitioners.
For me, the conference displayed, in a balanced way, all of theelements that we in Polarity know and love to talk about The sanddunes and salty air of Cape Cod provided an aestheticallypleasing backdrop for all of the conference activities. From theopening evening campfire, to mealtimes spent in the ocean viewdining room, not to mention quick visits to the beach duringbreaks, the setting was an ‘elementary’ gift to conferenceparticipants. The sun, wind, water and sand put us in close contactwith nature’s elements outdoors. Indoors, the air was refreshinglyair-conditioned and the attendees were well directed to theirchosen workshops. The conference rooms were appropriate foreach workshop, including the area required for setting up ofmassage tables if necessary. The availability of refreshingly cool,lime-flavoured water at every location was appreciated andenjoyed by all.
Every speaker that I heard, presented their ideas and theories withconfidence and passion and a willing openness to share theirknowledge and skills. During the opening ceremony, ChandanaBecker introduced us to the Nine Muses of Mythology, as a wayto encourage the germination and reproduction of the femininein everyone. Following Chandana’s keynote address we wereentertained by a gifted singer/Polarity Practitioner by the name ofIsa Dollyhigh, who allowed us to experience the elementsthrough song and invited us to participate in a "Name ThatElement" sing-a-long. The evening culminated with the campfireon the beach under a clear star-filled dome of sky. The closing was
complete with drumming and the ritualistic setting of intention forthe success of the conference for individuals, as well as for thePolarity community at large.
It was great to be able to attend Phil Young and MoragCampbell’s teacher training workshop on structure. To spend aday with people whose books we have at our disposal to read andwhom we have heard about since the beginning of our PolarityTherapy exposure was a much-appreciated privilege.
Carol Lucia shared her experiences of Presenting Polarity TherapyTo The Medical Community. Carol shared the secrets of hersuccess in this matter and left us inspired to follow her steps in ourown attempts to bridge the gap between Western AllopathicMedicine and Complementary Alternative Medicine (to borrowMary Jo’s phrasings).
I came away from the conference experience with a sense ofconnectedness to a professional organization with the support ofgenerous and highly experienced experts in the field of Polaritytherapy. There was a true sense of sharing and hopefully, anyonewho was not able to attend, will benefit from listening to theconference tapes. If at all possible, I would definitely encourageeveryone to attend the next conference for his or her own growthas Polarity Practitioners and for the growth of the Polarity TherapyCommunity of which we are all a part.
Pat Ransom is a Registered Nurse, working as a nurse assessor forHospice King/Aurora, and a student at R.Y.P., soon to begin thefinal trimester in level 2 Polarity Therapy training. Pat is also amember of the OPTA board, presently acting as secretary.
An Update from the Cape - 2001 Polarity Therapy Conference Review
by Pat Ransom, RN, Polarity Therapy Student
so play
energy currents • autumn 2001 9
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elements, it is important that we realise and acknowledge toourselves where our own limitations lie and that we areconscious of the difficulties that we may be experiencing with aparticular element. If we are unconscious of our anger andaggression then we can unwittingly transmit too much fire in ourtouch, pushing the client too rapidly to a place that they do nothave the resources to deal with effectively. We can also be indanger of imposing our will (I will get a release here if it kills me!)onto the client - remember fire can get carried away! Wellbalanced fire ie: touch that is direct and to the point, can keepthe client focused sufficiently to deal with what is coming up andwith clients that have a tendency to hide or disassociate duringsessions, it can keep them in the "here and now"
Water energy is encouraged in others by the use of sensual,contactful touch accompanied by slow rhythmic movements.Here gentle rocking also encourages this element, beingpassive, it needs an impulse to move. Head to toe pulsing canbe useful here. By adding energy to the feet say in a rhythmicpulse that is transmitted the length of the body right up to thehead we can encourage that fluid movement in the system. If wevary the direction of impulse slightly we can notice the subtlestof restrictions and help to unravel them. This vertical motion,unlike the side to side motion mentioned above, encouragesthe nodding of the head, in effect you are encouraging yourclient to say 'Yes' to life. Resonating with the water elementmeans that you have to convey nurturing and caring in yourtouch, hands have to be soft at all times and your actionsdirected by the heart. Keep you actions fluid and connected.The body loves to be moved in this passive way, letting go andsurrendering to the impulses, gliding like a sail boat on thecurrents of energy.
Many people talk of the earth touch as manipulation of theskeleton and joints, such as the toe pulls or leg pull, but toconvey earth in your touch means to convey safety and support.
Some clients can feel unsafe if the touch is too light or lacking incontact. The earth touch, like water, is still soft but yielding. Itconveys strength. It encourages the body to let go and let downinto the contact. The movements are slow so as to give the bodytime to respond and it encourages trust.
When giving an elemental session we can give a session that issimilar to the elemental imbalance ie: fight fire with fire. This israther like the principle of homeopathy where like treats like. Byremoving the impediments in the system, then stimulating andbalancing a particular element, we are relying on the innatewisdom in the system to re-organise and re-balance. Onoccasions, it can be more beneficial to treat a particularelemental imbalance by working another element to achieve adesired effect. Too much fire in the system can be balanced outby encouraging more water energy and this would be a case ofopposites working together to bring about balance. Experienceand instinct will guide you as to which might be the mostbeneficial in any particular case.
Morag Campbell, RPT is a co-director with Phil Young ofMasterworks International, a training consultancy for PolarityTherapy and Hawaiian Huna. Morag is the co-founder of theNorsk Institutt Polaritetsterapi in Norway and maintains a privatepractice in Devon, England. For further information or upcomingworkshop dates email [email protected].
Stone Quote“Life is but a kindergarten of experience.”
Health Building. Chapter 2: page 18.
Hawaiian Huna Bodywork and Healer Training
Beginning September 13th - 16th 2001 in Brampton, OntarioWith Phil Young RPP and Morag Campbell RPP
Course is 5-four day workshops. Course fee is $2275 Cdn or $505 Cdn per workshopFor further details and bookings call Doug Ing at 905.843.0507
Polarity and Huna Healing SessionsPhil Young will be available for private sessions in Brampton from September 9th - 12th.
Call Doug Ing to book your session. To contact Phil directly email [email protected]
Dr. Stone sets forth a foundation inPolarity for a body-mind model of energybased communications and counselling.Our Polarity Energy paradigm is basedupon universal field theory. The universalenergy field holds the space for infinitediversity: Unity In Diversity. Dr. Stone saysthat "Our soul is a unit drop of the oceanof the Eternal Spirit". Albert Einsteindescribes matter or our physical body inrelationship to Unified Field theory as,"We may therefore regard matter asbeing constituted by the regions ofSpace in which the field is extremelyintense.... There is no place in this newkind of physics both for the field andmatter, for the field is the only reality."
To navigate the diversity of the universalenergy field we created our mind. Ourmind is an interface between energy andmatter. Dr. Stone describes our mind as a"step-down of soul forces to act as anintermediary link between spirit andmatter." He describes three levels ofmind; our super conscious mind, ournormal conscious mind, and oursubconscious mind.
Our super conscious mind is a patternfield of mind. This is our mind of idealsand the highest of these ideals areexpressed in numbers and geometricpatterns. Mathematics is the highestlanguage of our mind. Points, lines,triangles, circles, squares, and fivepointed star patterns are all "thoughts"of our super conscious mind.
Our normal conscious, called ourconscious mind, operates through oursenses in what Dr. Stone terms an etheric
and emotional field. Our conscious mindis aware of our everyday feelings,thoughts, wishes, successes, andchallenges. Our conscious mind isneutral and can focus on what ever itlikes. This is sometimes called "our freewill". The ideal conscious mind is a mindof non-attachment.
Dr. Stone says that our subconsciousmind governs all involuntary functions orour gross physical body. Oursubconscious mind is our body orsomatic mind. The word subconsciousimplies that our conscious mind is notaware of its activities. For example whileyou are reading this text your heart hasbeen beating without the awareness ofyour conscious mind. When you go tosleep your body carries on all sorts ofactivities while you are dreaming.
The three minds form a continuum ofthinking processes. Our super consciousmind thinks in pure number, sound andarchetypes. Our normal conscious mindthinks familiar thoughts such as "whatday is it? What am I doing? I hope my carstarts, as well as navigates our emotionsand feelings. Our subconscious mind isour body and "thinks" in gut levelinstinctual feelings.
From a Polarity energy perspective oursuper conscious mind is the positivepole, our normal conscious mind is theneutral pole, and our body assubconscious mind, is the negative pole.The relationship of the "three minds"forms a foundation for an integratedbody-emotion-mind approach to verbalcommunications and counselling. Our
mind is our body and our body is ourmind. Each mind is a valued part of ourwhole mind. Working with one area ofour mind will effect all areas of our mind. Body alignment based on geometricpatterns like the five pointed star andinterlaced triangles is a method ofcreating resonance between our superconscious, conscious, and subconsciousmind. We can "see" how a person isthinking by observing their body postureand structure related to geometric linesand patterns. We can see dissonancesbetween their posture and an ideal superconscious geometric pattern. Thesevisual dissonances are reflective ofnormal and subconscious thoughtprocesses that are out of alignment withour super conscious.
Polarity body alignment based ongeometric patterns is a form of non-verbal super conscious psychotherapy.Touch is transformed into a languagewhich asks someone through differentpressures and directions of pressure toshift into a five pointed star pattern. Thesomatic mind as body, responds becauseit instinctively knows the pattern it isbeing asked through touch to entrain toa natural pattern. When our somaticmind and super conscious mind arealigned, a resonance is created whichallows our normal conscious mind tolisten to our healer within, our Spirit. Thisis what is often times called listening toour healer within.
I worked with a man who looked like hisleft shoulder was touching his ear lobe andhis hips were tilted, trying to also reach hisear lobe. I asked him, "Do you notice anypains in your shoulder or any discomfort inyour neck.?" He said, "Oh no, don't haveany." I replied, "Do you have any pains inyour pelvis?" He said, "No."
I asked him to lay on the table and Ibegan systematic structural Polarity work.I just got in there like a piano tunerturning pegs and evened out hisshoulders, relaxed his spinal muscles,
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Super Conscious Psychotherapyby John Beaulieu, ND, PhD
From Dr. John Beaulieu's New Book, Alchemy Of Mind: The Advanced Art Of Polarity Therapy, © 2000
energy currents • autumn 2001 11
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and aligned him to a five pointed starpattern as best as he would allow me. Ikneaded him, twisted him, stretched him,pushed, pulled, and held points basedon geometric lines of energy.
His high shoulder dropped and bothshoulders evened out. It was reallyamazing to witness how he opened up.His neck was long and rising gently fromhis shoulders. I had him feel his neck andshoulders. I asked him what it felt like. Hewas quiet for a moment and than hebegan to cry.
Too understand, let’s take a closer look athis presenting structure. The highshoulder and twist through the neckappear as though it is literally "cuttingoff" his energy from moving through histhroat. It is like water trying to movethrough a kinked hose and his expressionappears to have limited movement in thisarea. Upon further observation thelimitation in his throat area seems to beconnected with a twist coming down hisspine and into his pelvis. The twistingappears to cause the pelvis to constrictand tilt in order to adapt to the energy.
From a Polarity energy perspective ourthroat is the area of our Ether element, orwhat Dr. Stone calls our "Akash EtherSound Reservoir". Our throat is whereour emotions are sounded andverbalized. Our pelvis represents theWater element, and specifically theScorpio astrological quality of the Waterelement. The Scorpion hides under rocksand stings, and represents oursuppressed emotions. The energyrestriction in the throat is surprised intothe perineum causing the pelvis to tilt.
The moment I asked him to becomeaware of his "tuned" body he begancrying. His tears were his emotionalenergy moving from his pelvis throughhis throat. The "kink" in the hose wasremoved by the structural alignmentwork and his energy could flow freely.Our session switched from structural
balancing to expressive counselling. Hetold me the story of his girlfriend leavinghim over a year ago. He said he hadbeen walking around for over a year notknowing that he was in pain.
Our bodies are a temple for our soul.Every bone, cell, and tissue are thestructural materials that form our sacredtemple. We are mobile centres ofworship. The stresses, challenges, andpressures of life are opportunities forspiritual growth. Our daily actions, nomatter how mundane, are a form prayer.When our life actions resonate with theenergy necessary to master our lifechallenges the result echoes again andagain, like a Gregorian Chant, throughthe tissues of our body.
The alchemists called the process ofidentifying and meeting our lifechallenges, "The Great Work". Dr. Stonecalled it the Journey Of Our SoulThrough Understanding, and JosephCampbell called it The Hero's Journey.The "heat" necessary to meet ourchallenges was called our "alchemicfurnace" or Fire Within. Our inneralchemic furnace is so powerful that itcan melt base metals like lead andtransmute them into gold. It cantransmute darkness into light.
The resonance of meeting our lifechallenges creates a pulse betweenheaven and earth. The experience of thispulse was called the "Rainbow Bridge"by the Alchemists. The rainbow bridgewas transverse by a magical Unicorn andgave rise to the myth of a pot of gold atthe end of the rainbow.
DREAMING THE LIGHT
Everybody has a dream of light.Supporting another's light dream is tosupport your own light dream. Light iscreated from darkness. A dream of lightspins dark material into newer and newerilluminated patterns. A dreamer of lightneeds dark material for fuel. Light
dreamers are like the Sun. The Sun burnsits dark mass through billions of thermonuclear explosions to create light,warmth, and nourishment for alldreamers. Light dreamers burn dark.
Light dreamers know that the innertransmutation of darkness to lighthappens through burning their shadow.The dark used to be a time to hide, atime to fear, a time to huddle togetherfor warmth. Light dreamers look into thedark void and understand the ancientalchemic formula for transmutation oflead into gold or dark into light. Theirhigher self illuminates itself throughfacing and burning strands of darkness into dreams of light.
John Beaulieu, N.D., Ph.D. is thefounder of the BioSonic Repatterningand Polarity Wellness Network and aninternationally successful practitionerand teacher of Polarity Therapy andSound Healing. He is an author andcomposer whose works include Musicand Sound in the Healing Arts, and ThePolarity Therapy Workbook, and the CDCalendula. For Information on how topurchase “Alchemy Of Mind” and/orit’s release date, please visitwww.BioSonicEnterprises.com.
Stone Quote“ANY ONE WHO INTERFERESWITH THE FREE WILL OFANOTHER, assumes greatresponsibility in the mental plane,even beyond this mortal sphere. TOGUIDE AND DIRECT OUR OWNMIND IS EACH ONE’S BIRTHRIGHTAND HIGHEST MORAL DUTY.”
Volume One. Book I: page 67.
