LABOR PREPARATION & THE 8 EXTRAS: SUPPORTING THE TRANSITION FROM PREGNANCY TO PARENTHOOD

Course overview

This course will investigate the use of the 8 Extras and the Luo Vessels to support the conscious choice to parent. Based on the teachings of Sun Si Miao and his expansion of the concept of 'nurturing life' (Yang Shen), we approach the philosophy of conscious parenting from the perspective of a woman's capacity to embrace the archetype of motherhood. This includes self-knowledge and surrender to the inevitability of the transition from selfishness to selflessness. Starting with conception, and moving through the early post partum period, topics will include the 7/8-year cycles of Jing from an archetypal perspective, choices in childbirth and impediments to those choices. We will discuss strategies for the practitioner to guide their patients in creating an empowered birth plan. We will explore treatment options using these powerful vessels to facilitate a mental and emotional environment conducive to optimal birth outcomes, and a healthy neo-natal period. We will examine common medical practices in the maternal/fetal health system, and their impact on birth outcomes in the United States. Objectives: •Introduction: Conscious parenting and Sun Si Miao's concept of Yang Shen •The 8 Extras & the maternal archetype, the 7/8-year cycles of Jing •The birth plan: choices in childbirth and impediments to choices in childbirth/8 Extra & Luo Vessel treatment protocols •More treatments, common medical interventions and treatment strategies for recovery, conclusion, Q&A