Jon Braeley is an exceptional film maker. Mind you, anyone who runs a company
called Empty Mind films lives just that little bit outside the square.
His journey has taken him through Asia as he explores, amongst so many things, Zen
Buddhists in Japan, The Secrets of Tai Chi Chuan and a delightful but deeply moving
film set in Chen Village in China with a caption "There are 3000 residents in Chen
Village. 2,500 practice Tai Chi". The title alone is enough to draw you in.

Recently I have had the pleasure of watching: • Chen Village • The Zen Mind • Master of Heaven and Earth not once but many times and all have more than something for any readers who enjoy the many and varied aspects of life and culture and philosophy in China and Japan.

The following is the introduction to Masters of Heaven and Earth: While the world pummelled each other with fists and iron China discovered a new way to fight. Not with strength but softness. Not with speed but stillness. Come climb the peaks of Wudang Mountain, the home of Tai Chi Chuan.

And an introduction to The Zen Mind: Discover a path that leads to a single point where all ego and doubt are erased.

I was humoured by this line in Chen Village. When you first arrive in Chen Village you are struck by how unremarkable it is. This is followed by the some of the most remarkable footage you are likely to see.

For those interested in Tai Chi, Martial Arts, Meditation or indeed just an awe inspiring and sweeping insight into the countries and philosophies you cannot past go these DVDs. They encompass the very essence of these arts and will have you observing what is simply to the best.

All DVDs are beautifully filmed, professionally shot and riveting viewing not once but time and time again.

Masters of Heaven & Earth

Chen Village

The Zen Mind Discover a path that leads to a single point where all ego and doubt are erased.

Featured in The Art of Healing,  September 2011

In this DVD, producer and commentator Jon Braeley travels through China, Tibet and India to explore traditional medicine and natural healing systems. Whilst the three systems share the belief that a life force or inner energy exists (prana or qi) to sustain life, Traditional Chinese Medicine is rooted in the Tao and yin and yang that keep the body and mind in balance, and Ayurveda and Tibetan medicine share the philosophy that the five elements are the building blocks of man and the cosmos. This is imperative viewing.

Filmed on location in India at Rishikesh in the lap of the Himalayas, and in Mysore in the far south, Yoga Gurus includes spectacular scenery of the holy river the Ganges, and interviews with some of the world’s top gurus in yoga about the purpose of physical asanas vs. the spiritual aspects.

Yoga Gurus is superbly scripted and filmed by Jon Braeley whose personal interest in the subject has obviously guided him to not only seek out the best yoga practitioners, but also to ask questions which bring out aspects of yoga not available elsewhere. As a viewer you also feel guided to become a better person - in both mind and body.

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The DVD is available here

Thomas K. Ockler P.T. received his BS. P.T. from the : State University of New York at Buffalo in 1978. Tom has been in clinical practice for 28 years: focusing much of his attention on the correction of somatic dysfunctions using Non-Manipulative Manual Therapy Techniques. He has extensive teaching experience including a month in: Australia, throughout the United States, Canada, and the UK. Tom is a past associate instructor of  the Upledger Institute, where he taught Muscle Energy and Strain Counter-Strain programs. His background in bio-mechanics along with orthotic fabrication has been integrated with his non-manipulative techniques to find ways of treating difficult musculoskeletal disorders.

Firstly this is a beautifully crafted DVD by Real Bodywork, the audio and picture quality is excellent, the camera work allows you to see all the demonstrated techniques with ease. The DVD has a running time of 2 hours and 20 minutes which gives Tom enough time to explain clearly what he wants to achieve.

The next chapter is the Pelvis and begins with an excellent explanation of gait mechanics, the physiologic and the pathological movements of the pelvis and the structural or functional leg length. This is, followed by Ilia-sacral mobility testing, pelvic asymmetry evaluation and treatment techniques. A clear understanding of these areas is essential for the treatment of the pelvis. This is a wonderful chapter and Tom explains a difficult area easily due to his relaxed manner and excellent explanations. Sacrum -this chapter cover sacral evaluation -torsion, flexion and extension and sacrum treatment techniques. Again Tom takes a complex area easy to understand with clear explanation and detailed treatment techniques which are easy to. see and follow.

Lumbar Area - this starts with an explanation of the lumbar spine followed by lumbar spine : treatment techniques which covers flexion, extension side bending and rotation problems. As with other chapters it is clear, precise and easy to follow. My summary is that this is a high quality DVD; Tom Ockler has the ability to explain each chapter in detail and in a very relaxed, enthusiastic and confident manner. The cost of the DVD is not much in relation to the amount of information clearly communicated. I highly recommend this DVD for all manual therapists who wish to learn about Muscle Energy Technique.

This DVD is available here

The author's involvement in martial arts, Qigong and Tai Chi is unsurpassed and his teachings and knowledge are available on some 80 instructional videos and in more than 35 books. "Tai Chi Chuan" is a must not only for the beginner but for the artist who has been practising for years.

The beginner will not only get a simple understanding of Qi and Qigong but will be challenged to think deeper in an attempt to understand the concepts of, amongst so many things, the three powers (san cai) of heaven, earth and man and how these must be understood and incorporated into your practice.

The artist of years of practice will also be challenged as Yang takes you deeper and deeper into the understanding that it is not the readers or artists place to read these words and simply to follow them but to explore their potential and to incorporate them into daily practice. It is one thing to copy but another to feel.

One (of the so many) concepts Yang shares is the belief that as a martial artist or Tai Chi practitioner it is only partial training if your knowledge only embraces the external. The internal must be accepted, understood and brought into practice. The entire book is a kaleidoscope of imagery, philosophy, pictures, and challenges and the reading of it can only enhance ones understanding and practice. An essential book to have in your library. By all means take it down and read and refer to it every so often as you will always read something new that you missed the first time around. But don't leave it on the shelf for too long.

This book is available here

Assessment is an important tool for all manual therapists, and these DVDs cover it all in a precise and logical manner with excellent 3D graphics showing the structures that are involved. Classic assessment techniques, special tests, subjective assessment, posture and palpation are explored in a progression that is easy to follow and understand with constant review to ensure a complete understanding of the subject matter. These DVDs are presented in a manner that makes them suitable for all soft-tissue practitioners or students seeking to improve their understanding and treatment of soft tissue dysfunction.

"Orthopedic Assessment" applies established orthopedic assessment methods to evaluate how soft-tissues function, the role of posture, biomechanics and the primary ways of evaluating numerous common conditions are discussed in detail. Alan's manner is relaxed, the language is not over technical and his demonstrations are clearly visible at all times and good explanation of each test or procedure is provided. Any healthcare practitioner involved in treating soft-tissue disorders will find these DVD's a wonderful resource to have on hand and very beneficial in helping to treat clients. This material runs at around 4 hours of valuable, useful and practical tuition, which will give you further confidence in your work and better results for your clients as you apply these protocols in your clinic.

The Art of Life is a book and DVD, subtitled A Journey into the Chinese Healing Arts, and introduces the reader to: • Qigong • The Eight Pieces of Brocade • Shibashi • Tai Chi and much, much more.

Indeed if you haven't started your journey, are interested but think the above words or concepts may be incomprehensible please don't be put off as Blow has a wonderfully natural and easy way of introducing this practice and philosophy to you. If you are interested in commencing the journey into Tai Chi or indeed any aspects of the Chinese healing arts this is a splendid book and DVD which will enhance your journey and lead you to a deeper understanding not only of the pathway you are taking but why you are taking it. There are very simple diagrams in the book which guide you step by step and these are ably supported by the beautifully shot DVD. Over the years I have read many books on this subject and watched many videos and DVDs and the bottom line for me is that nothing can compare with having a teacher. Indeed it is imperative you have a teacher. That teacher will come along when you are ready. In the mean time you are going to be hard pressed to find anything better than Simon Blows book and DVD. It will give you understanding, will whet your appetite and certainly will give you instruction.

Chi-Reflexology With Moss Arnold

On this DVD, developed by Moss Arnold, you will find out about Chi-Reflexology, a unique form of reflexology and natural therapy based on an understanding of the Chinese philosophy, including, but not exclusively Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and the application of this knowledge to the science of reflexology. Chi-Reflexology combines energy work with the science of reflexology, with the aim of expanding both; bringing life, vitality and awareness to reflexology, and developing it as an art. It is a philosophical approach, which emphasizes “working with the human being” (rather than against it), and balancing the human condition. As such, it is a truly holistic therapy, dealing with physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well being.

Yoga: Gentle Vinyasa Flow With Zyrka Landwijt

Explore the power and fluidity of Vinyasa yoga with this comprehensive DVD. Zyrka Landwijt is an excellent instructor because she takes a lot of care to ensure movement during and between postures is undertaken slowly, which greatly assists the participant with focus. Yoga: Gentle Vinyasa Flow features six yoga sequences each with their own difficulty level and length; two half-hour sequences, two three-quarter hour sequences, and two hour sequences, so you get very good value for money. Also unique to this DVD and a terrific value-added is a pose guide that provides detailed instruction on 23 poses including position, common mistakes, pose benefits and contraindications. Highly recommended.

In It’s Baby Time! you will be able to view and participate in massage with your baby, exercises, games, and sing-alongs. The DVD has three parts which include; The Joy Routine, for energizing and fun; The Peace Routine, for sedating and relaxing; and exercises to tone and stretch with your baby. Techniques to address common issues such as colic, teething, asthma, chest congestion, and constipation are also included. It’s Baby Time! is presented by Jenny Wilmer who is a licensed , massage therapist, yoga teacher and mother, and is ideal for mothers, fathers, grandpatents, aunts and uncles.

This comprehensive DVD includes 6 sequences each with their own difficulty level and length: two half-hour sequences, two three-quarter-hour sequences, and two one hour sequences. Also included is a unique Pose Guide that gives detailed instruction on 23 poses including positioning, common mistakes, pose benefits, and contraindications. This is an excellent DVD for those starting out in yoga, and for those who are currently practicing to check their postures, and Zyrka is a very good teacher. Highly Recommended.

This DVD about Tai Chi is quite comprehensive and very well presented. As a viewer I found it quite informative at the same time as being well-explained. I felt the key with this practice is to master the art of relaxation whilst performing the postures and routines, which is quite a challenge and perhaps why so many people in China practice so regularly. At 3 hours long, the DVD includes alignment principles and then 12 detailed lessons where Chao breaks down each motion and leads you through each section of the practice.

this DVD is informative – and fun. You could essentially be viewing it at the same time as practicing – the first time you watch it. And it is interesting to learn about the different body parts each hand or foot configuration relates to as you go along. The DVD includes a short history of Reflexology and then goes into the zones, organ and gland reflexes for both the hands and the feet. Learn how to give a wonderful foot and hand massage – and incorporate reflexology at the same time.

This yoga DVD is rated for Intermediate level participants. It includes 8 yoga routines ranging from 24 minutes to 75 minutes, and introduces both dynamic flowing yoga sequences, plus the option to explore more traditional yoga practices such as yogic breathing (pranayama), using toning during practice (suyra yoga), and guided meditation (yoga nidra). These optional practices are part of what define the Saraswati River tradition, and help to deepen and bring a new level of stillness and awareness to your practice. Backed with traditional Indian grooves and modern ambient tones, I personally find Zyrka’s style of teaching to be very professional and gentle.

Review by Niki Ruane

Diana Hayes has created an inspiring educational DVD on Positional Release (PI). According to the creators PI is similar to Ortho-bionomy, Strain - Counter Strain and Neuromuscular Re Education as the technique works with the body’s nervous system to remind and assist the muscles to relax. Diana opens the DVD with a 20 minute comprehensive introduction into positional release techniques and how they work. The techniques themselves consist of placing the affected muscles or muscle groups into very precise positioning, and then using what Diana calls a “monitor point” or painful point release to effortlessly soften and relax and re-educate the muscle. She indicates that the muscle and monitor point needs to be held in position for about 60-90 seconds to get full release.

Diana then works through a basic evaluation process with a client on the DVD. This leads through to the step by step process of looking at individual muscles within different regions. She covers the regions of the neck, shoulder and arm, spine, pelvis and leg. Diana’s explanations of the techniques for each muscle are extremely clear and concise. The camera work is positioned in such a way that you get the best possible view of what she is demonstrating. The only thing that amused me was the “dynamic effects” of a loud and slightly out of place SWISH used to separate the demonstrations of the individual muscles.

The final integration session at the end of the DVD assists in putting it all into place and potential practice.

Overall I think that anyone interested in the technique, or teachers delivering the techniques within courses would benefit from having this DVD in their collection.

Review by Paula Nutting, President of AAMT

This book is written in an easily understood manner, and should be used for self-treatment as much as for post treatment exercise choices.

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Review by Tyraus Farrelly

• Excellent quality
• Excellent value for money
• Invaluable learning resource
• Awesome Animated Graphics
• Best nerve treatment DVD I have ever seen
• Overall Rating ***** A must see, highly recommended!

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Review by Michelle Yaffe

This is a high quality book that I would recommend to any massage therapists as a very handy addition to their library and treatment room.

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Review by Tyraus Farrelly

This is a great DVD that all therapists would benefit from viewing. It is clear that Mr Waslaski is a knowledgeable and experienced educator and therapist. He presents a treatment method that I think would revolutionise the way many therapists approach and treat upper thoracic and cervical conditions.

Excellent quality
Great visual learning aids used throughout
Fair value for money
Valuable training aid for any level AMT member
Overall Rating ****
Highly Recommended viewing!

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Review by Sandra Dexter

This is a good DVD for students and for practitioners who want a meridian refresher and to pick up some alternative techniques.
It enables you to reinforce your knowledge with the best seat in the class.

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Review by Rob Granter

This DVD has good production values with a good array of camera angles to maximise the viewers learning experience. Visual learning is always a great medium and this DVD allows us to see the assessment and treatment techniques of an experienced therapist, something that is invaluable.

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Review by Tyraus Farrelly

Definitely worth the price of admission if you want to delve into the world of Positional Release.

Excellent quality
Good value for money
3 hours of information & techniques
Covers positional release for the entire body
Easily integrated into any practice
Valuable training aid for any level AMT member
Overall Rating *****
Valuable resource, highly recommended!

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Review by Tyraus Farrelly

This is a great DVD and I believe all members will gain enormous benefits from it. Senior members with a more in-depth knowledge of anatomy
would stand to gain the most from this DVD.
Excellent quality
Excellent value for money
Invaluable learning resource
Great use of still & animated slides
Best nerve treatment DVD I have ever seen
Overall Rating *****
A must see, highly recommended!

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