Embryology - *Note that this class will not be offered again until 2009*

This 3-day workshop covers the basic principles of development of a Human Embryo from conception on as described by the late German Embryologist Dr. Erich Blechschmidt. The unfolding of Human Form in space and time is as amazing as humbling - and can be understood step by step without specific knowledge of genetics.

After introducing general information about sperm and ovum we will specifically look at the early Human Development of the first four weeks after fertilization to appreciate the underlying rules and principles.

In this first part of the workshop we will cover ovulation, fertilization, the blastocyst and implantation. We will develop an understanding for the distinction between development, differentiation and growth. Metabolic polarization will be understood in discussing positional differences of cells constituting either limiting tissue or internal tissue. Fluid pressure and membranous tension will be introduced as major epigenetic formative forces of developmental movements. Looking at the differentiation of the three early fluidic cavities - yolk sac, amnion and chorion - will illustrate this fundamental pressure / tension relationship. The dynamic processes leading to the appearance of the primitive streak highlight the midline formation: all fluids and tissues (including the Craniosacral System) orient towards this central axial process of the human body.

Late metabolic fields as original areas of differentiation will be discussed in a second part of the workshop. Here we will apply the principles to understand how characteristic areas of development give rise to specific tissues and organs. Also we will clarify why Ontogenesis does not recapitulate Phylogenesis and describe the role of genes in embryonic development in a fascinating new way.

In this workshop we will challenge a couple of general ideas and concepts in the fields of embryology, genetics and physiology. We will also deepen our understanding of the human structure and appreciate the mystery of the body in a profoundly new way.

*This class gives you one professional session and two student exchange credits but is not yet acredited for CE hours through the National Massage Board*

Please note that the registration link below is only for classes organized by MII in Tuscany, Berkeley and Santa Monica.

For all other MII classes kindly contact the Organizer of that particular class directly.