Class Descriptions
The following are descriptions of the classes required in the Practitioner Training Program and Advanced Practitioner Training Program. Anyone may take any class as long as they fulfill the prerequisite(s) for the class, regardless of whether or not they are enrolled in one of the training programs. The material presented in these classes provides individuals valuable tools for working with clients as well as caring for oneself.
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Phase 4
Phase IV
This foundation class covers the history, philosophy, and concepts of Ortho-Bionomy and provides an overview of the basic release techniques and anatomy for each major joint in the body. Movements and positions of comfort are demonstrated to facilitate the release of muscular tension and overall stress by stimulating the inherent, self-corrective reflexes of the body, which help create structural alignment and balance from within. This course is typically taught for specific body areas/anatomy, such as spine, extremities, thoracics, etc. to break the coursework into more manageable sections.
Dr. Arthur Lincoln Pauls, the founder of Ortho-Bionomy, organized his work into Phases Four, Five, Six and Seven, with the foundation work beginning with Phase Four. This is covered in the Phase Four course.
Phase 5
Phase V
The focus of Phase Five is to move to a more subtle level of awareness of the practice and principles of Ortho-Bionomy. Specific techniques develop and increase the student's understanding and proprioceptive sensitivity to the self-corrective movements initiated by the client. Through the practice of observing, following, and supporting subtle movement patterns, muscular tension is released, range of motion may be increased, and pain may be reduced. In Phase Five, students are encouraged to do less and let the client be the guide for their own exploration of change.
Phase 6
Phase Six Phase VI
This class is designed to help participants access and track sensation and energetic perception in themselves and in their clients, and to learn how to make contact without necessarily engaging physically. Techniques will be presented that acknowledge and monitor the inter-relationship between energetic, emotional, and, physical levels and that demonstrate how energetic shifts can affect changes in physical patterns.
Phase 7
Phase Seven Phase VII
This class demonstrates the principles and applications of Phase Seven patterns to assist with self-correction. The patterns address all levels of human experience and offer participants a non-forceful, elegant way to approach problems of many kinds.
Exploration of Movement Patterns
Exploration of Movement Patterns adds a dynamic dimension to the positional release techniques. Participants will learn to recognize and palpate patterns of joint and muscle movement in order to facilitate increased range of motion and promote a general sense of well-being in the body. By gently exploring and supporting preferred patterns of movement or stillness, the client is invited to actively participate and recognize their own patterns. Functional anatomy will also be discussed.
Postural Re-Education and Post Techniques
In this class participants learn to evaluate and address inefficient postural habits through accurate observation and simple exercises. Techniques to work with spinal curvatures and scoliosis, including related anatomy, are presented and practiced. Post techniques focus on assessing and releasing areas of tension as well as integrating the work done in a session. In addition, exercises are taught through neuromuscular re-education of postural habits to facilitate the client's ability to maintain balance.
Isometrics and Isotonics
This class presents isometric and isotonic techniques, including related anatomy, for working with inefficient muscular tension patterns as well as underdeveloped muscle tone. Through the use of restraining movement while the muscle is engaged, self-correcting reflexes are stimulated and habitual holding patterns can be released. Participants learn how the conscious use of obstacles can help promote change from rigid physical patterns to greater mobility while allowing the client to actively participate in the session.
Chapman's Reflexes
Cranial
This class applies the principles of Ortho-Bionomy energy work to the function of the cranial system. Participants are encouraged to feel the energetic patterns existing in the cranial system and allow the recipient to find better balance through self-correcting reflexes.
Ethics and Emotional Issues
Participants will learn skills to appropriately and professionally address emotional responses that may arise during a session. In addition, participants discuss the guidelines for professional conduct and review the Society of Ortho-Bionomy International's Code of Ethics.
Elements of a Successful Practice
This class addresses the business side of having an Ortho-Bionomy practice. Participants learn about issues such as marketing and advertising, developing a business plan, setting up an office, setting fees, and attending to tax and legal issues. The class also covers communication with clients, record keeping, and staying within the scope of practice.
Demonstration Skills
In this class students learn how to present Ortho-Bionomy to family, friends, potential clients, and the general public. Students are encouraged to find ways to communicate the "unexplainable" and practice presenting Ortho-Bionomy in a clear and accurate way. Techniques for building confidence and fluency and for improving public speaking and presentation are included.
Residential
Residential training programs provide participants with the opportunity to broaden and deepen their understanding of Ortho-Bionomy techniques and principles through an in-depth immersion for five or more days of uninterrupted study. Residentials allow time for learning and personal growth as well as relaxation to facilitate the integration of techniques, philosophies, and the qualities of "Be-ing" rather than "doing".
Practitioner Training Seminar
This seminar addresses issues and questions that arise for individuals completing the Practitioner Training Program and helps participants synthesize their entire training experience. The class format includes time to discuss questions or problems that arise during a session, an opportunity to receive feedback and supervision about difficult cases, and information on how to best structure a session, set fees, and communicate with clients. Participants can also discuss their changing role in the community as they move from being a student to becoming a professional in the health care field.
Anatomy and Physiology
Anatomical and physiological structures and functions relevant to the practice of Ortho-Bionomy are presented in this class. Both general classes as well as classes which focus on specific systems or body parts are available. Additionally, functional anatomy plays an integral role in many of the classes.
Study Groups
Study groups give students an opportunity to review techniques, receive clarification about the application and principles of Ortho-Bionomy, gain insight about specific client cases or situations that concern them, and discuss any aspects of Ortho-Bionomy training. Many study groups are offered online, often with a specific theme. SOBI sponsors monthly online study groups taught by registered instructors.
Electives
The principles and techniques of Ortho-Bionomy can be applied in many different circumstances and situations. SOBI approved elective courses provide participants with more specialized techniques and applications. Examples of elective topics include: Self-Care, Visceral, Whiplash, TMJ, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Women's Care, Men's Care, Witnessing and Clear Presence, Shock and Trauma Resolution, Beyond Technique, and more.
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