Qiological Live
Breath of the Water Dragon
The Shaoyin & the Integration of Fire and Water

As part two in a series of live events on the six phasic model of cosmology and physiology, we will continue with an exploration of the central role of the Shaoyin axis of Water and Fire. While much discussed, a practical appreciation of its vital energy of the 君火 jūnhuǒ, or Imperial Fire, remains somewhat shrouded in esoteric mystery. What is the significance of the “sealing and storing” function of the Kidney? How does it relate to the Heart and the “luminosity of Spirit”? What is the actual role of yang invigorating herbs such as aconite and cinnamon in clinical strategies?

Building from Chinese medical first principles, this talk will provide a detailed structure of the Shaoyin landscape. We will unpack the Shaoyin constellation of anatomical resonance, energetic dynamics, and psycho-emotional expression in order to better comprehend the brief descriptions of pathology contained within the Shanghan Lun. We will also break down Shaoyin level treatment strategies into fundamental categories based on their principle action of opening and gathering.

Participants can expect to develop a deeper ability to:
  • recognize the physiological and psycho-emotional components of the Shaoyin network
  • clearly differentiate Shaoyin conditions from other stages of pathology
  • formulate cohesive and effective treatment strategies for different forms of Shaoyin disease
  • recognize the underlying principles of Shaoyin formula construction
  • appreciate the outer display of the Spirit and its essential virtues as an integral aspect of diagnosis

You’ll have lifetime access to the recording of this Qiological Live seminar

Event fee $35, length 90 minutes

The Shaoyin system is the alchemical crucible for all life. The yin fire it generates is the One that gives rise to the Two, and in turn, the ten thousand things.

Your Instructor For This Class

Bryan McMahon is a uniquely qualified clinical practitioner, scholar and instructor of Ancient Chinese medicine (ACM). Having spent 15 in Asia, he is one of only a handful of Western practitioners to have completed the five-year traditional medical program at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, entirely in Mandarin. Bryan has been blessed to study extensively with many highly accomplished practitioners, most notably as a long-term apprentice to Dr. Li Xin. Bryan moved to Portland, OR in 2015, joining the faculty of the NUNM College of Classical Chinese Medicine while continuing his clinical research into the treatment of complex and often otherwise unresponsive conditions.

In 2021, he relocated to beautiful Costa Rica to pursue training in the non-dual Dharma technologies of the Mahasiddha tradition under the direct tutelage of his mentor, Kolbjorn Martens. He maintains regular online teaching, writing and remote consultation work from his home in the coastal foothills of Uvita.