Transformation arises from the unknown. In a world that often craves certainty, the practice of staying with discomfort, observing its rhythm, and allowing clarity to emerge can lead to remarkable insights—not just in healing, but in how we live.
In this conversation with Stephen Cowan, we explore how the art of not-knowing-yet invites discovery. Stephen shares his journey from Western medicine to the integrative, emergent practices of Chinese medicine, where curiosity and connection form the foundation of healing.
Listen into this discussion as we delve into the maps of Chinese medicine that guide us through uncertainty, the role of storytelling and connection in clinical practice, the rhythm of emotions and their impact on health, and how integrating presence and curiosity can transform both patients and practitioners.
In This Conversation We Discuss:
- The role of curiosity and not-knowing in healing
- Using Chinese medicine maps to navigate uncertainty
- The transformative power of storytelling in clinical practice
- How emotions carry rhythms that influence health
- The importance of presence and connection in treatment
- Balancing Western medicine's efficiency with Chinese medicine's depth
- The concept of developmental acupuncture
- The art of harmonizing with the rhythms of nature and time
- Teaching children the dying art of conversation
- The impact of the social engagement network on healing
- Recognizing pivotal moments and navigating change
- The value of releasing and nourishing in personal growth
- The interplay between the five phases and emotional resilience
- How meditation and mindfulness inform clinical work
- Creating a safe space for discovery and transformation
The key to thriving rather than just surviving amidst a changing world of uncertainty is “Relational Health.
I am a board-certified pediatrician with over 35 years of clinical experience working with children. In addition, I am an author, artist, and longtime student of Chinese medicine and Taichi. I am the author of “”Fire Child Water Child”” as well as a contributor to a number of textbooks on Integrative and Chinese medicine. I have also published a number of children's books that incorporate principles of Eastern philosophy.
I call myself a “”developmental acupuncturist”” because my subspecialty is empowering children (and parents) to develop their unique integrity (de) based on the principles of Eastern medicine which have for centuries recognized the intimate ecological relationship between our health and our environment. This approach respects the inseparability of mind, body and spirit and promotes a deeper understanding of what it means to be healthy.
I am a fellow in the American Academy of Pediatrics, with a subspecialty in Developmental Pediatrics and serve as a member of the AAP section on Developmental Disabilities. I am a Clinical Assistant Professor of Family & Community Medicine at NY Medical College and a long-time member of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture. I serve on several boards that promote holistic health through body-mind medicine.
I have a consultation practice in New York where I specialize in treating complex and chronic medical conditions that affect a child's growth and development. I am co-founder along with Moshe Heller of Jingshen Pediatrics Training program that promotes the application of Chinese Medicine in children.
Links and Resources
Visit Stephen on his website. And check out his non-profit Tournesol Kids for wonderful online resources that promote optimal development for all children.