Description
Book SynopsisThe healing arts involve a complex range of skills which each practitioner draws together in a unique way. These skills, attitudes and perspectives complement the scientific basis underpinning each discipline to create the wisdom and artistry of any therapeutic approach.
The practice of osteopathy is no exception. It involves a growing field of scientific knowledge in physics and biology that couples with an extraordinary range of human qualities to give the work depth, as well as relevance, and which can be tailored to the individual patient holistically and with compassion.
At the Still Point of the Turning World examines and explores both the art and the science of osteopathy through the eyes and approach of a devoted teacher and practitioner. The true value of holism, vitalism and osteopathic principles are discussed as part of the approach that each practitioner brings to the patient/practitioner relationship.
Trade ReviewThis is a unique text. It contains a remarkable mix. The scientific perspectives have probably never [before] been gathered together in one place. This is priceless, and makes the book essential reading for the intelligent osteopath. * Harold S Klug DO, Osteopathy practitioner, London, UK *
For those who have ears to listen and eyes to read it will probably become the most inspiring osteopathic book of their lives and careers! * Paolo Tozzi MSc Ost FT, Osteopathy teacher, Italy *
This book is long overdue and is a contribution to osteopathic thought and philosophy which has never before been so eloquently stated. * Gerald Lamb BSc(Lond) DO, Osteopathy Practitioner, London, UK and International Lecturer *
[This book] will become a classic text of 'must reads' for those who think - . * Nicholas Handoll DO MSCC, Osteopathy practitioner, Hereford UK *
Table of Contents1 Osteopathy: an overview [some history, the evolution of osteopathic thinking, misconceptions (inside and outside the profession), styles, theoretical fundamentals, the scope and perspective of the work].2 The vital quality of Motion [its ingredients and structural and physiological significance, how to read or interpret it; contributions from physicists and biologists].3 Holism and the osteopathic 'lens' [problems with holism; the importance of pattern and context as individuated expressions of health or ill health].4 Reciprocity [interconnectedness, relationship, interaction]. 5 Mainstream to 'cranial': continuum or quantum leap? [false dichotomies, commonalities, true differences; contributions of quantum theory]. 6 Subjectivity and the 'dance' [entrainment, resonance, transcendence; the importance of models in holistic paradigms]. 7 The Intelligent Fulcrum: palpation and thought on the move [a transcription of a lecture delivered in London to the Sutherland Cranial College]. 8 The Healing - 'if it comes at all, it comes from within' (Korr) [aspects of (unfashionable) vitalism]. 9 Beyond Technique: meeting the lesion [the true challenge of technique]. 10 Placebo and Ritual [the value of the so-called placebo effect; patients' belief in their capacity to regain health; autonomy versus dependency]. 11 The Human Spirit [adaptability, self-correction and survival]. 12 R & D & Safety [professional preoccupations]. 13 Divine Chaos: direction, meaning and mystery [the unconditional relationship with and commitment to life; the other 'uncertainty principle']. 14 The Exquisite nature of Paradox [truth enfolded in apparent contradiction]. 15 Epilogue: tying it together [spirit, humanity: relevance to the 'art']
