DVD / MP3 Practical Applications of Tibetan Medicine
If you are interested to learn more practical applications of Tibetan Medicine check out this lecture given at the Nalandabodhi Seattle Dharma Center.
In it you will find descriptions of the 3 humors, how they show themselves in symptoms and emotions. I cover diagnosis and various treatment methods through qualities and characteristics which antidote the 3 humors. I also give some very simple practical, at home do it yourself suggestions for applying Tibetan Medicine.
Contact the Nalandabodhi book store to order a copy: Available in both DVD or audio CD / mp3
bookstore@nalandabodhi.org, or by calling, (425) 275-8818. Their office hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 to 12:00 Pacific Time Zone.
2011 Autumn Seattle & Bellingham WA Clinical Tour ~ October 20-27th
Consults & Traditional Kunye Tibetan Massage
Appointments with Nashalla G Nyinda TMD will be available in both cities:Seattle, WA
Oct 20th - 23rd Call Nashalla @ 303 570 8242 for appointments
Bellingham, WA
October 24th - 27th Call Shakti @ 360 672 1473 for appointments
Free Public Lecture
Assessment Process in Tibetan Medicine ~ How your humeral balance and nature is determined
Monday 24th - 7pm Bellingham, WA
Community Food Co-op, Connections Building (Downtown Store)
1220 N. Forest St. Bellingham, Wa 98225
Kunye Massage Certification Program
What is Kunye Therapy?
Kunye Therapy is the system of massage and gentle external therapies taught in the ancient lineage of traditional Tibetan Medicine. Kunye Massage includes techniques such as applying herbal-infused oils to the body, manual tissue manipulation, deep tissue work, identifying & acting on specific points, mobilizing the joints, and warming the body. Kunye also includes gentle external therapies such as hot and cold compresses, herbal poultices, and application of heated oils.
The therapeutic treatments of Kunye can be applied to the entire body, utilizing proper draping and positioning of the client. Kunye is performed on a raised massage table, or seated on a massage chair, depending on the comfort and condition of the client.
Kunye Therapy has been employed by Tibetan physicians and yogins for many centuries. It is one of the most ancient systems of massage in the world, and an important component of traditional Tibetan Medicine.
What Are the Benefits?
The function of Kunye Therapy is to help balance the systems of the body, relax tensions, and revitalize the energy. For many centuries, Kunye Therapy has been applied to relieve muscular and joint pain, mobilize the joints, reduce stiffness, balance the neurological system, rejuvenate coarse and dry skin, alleviate the symptoms of mental and physical stress, anxiety, depression, grief, insomnia, constipation, and support the healthy function of digestion.
About the Program
The Shang Shung Institute regularly offers public seminars in traditional Kunye Therapy around the world. Kunye is also incorporated into the curriculum of the Four-year Program in Tibetan Medicine. In response to growing interest in the benefits of Kunye Therapy and enthusiasm for our public courses, the Shang Shung Institute now offers the 750-hour Comprehensive Certification Program designed to train students in the ancient healing science of Kunye, and prepare them to practice in the modern professional workplace.
The curriculum consists of 750-hours over three semesters. Upon completion of the program, graduates may apply to the Board of Registration of Massage Therapy for licensure as massage therapists in the state of Massachusetts or other states.
The program will focus on the following topics of theoretical study and practical application:
▪ Learn the principles & theory of Kunye Therapy, based on the traditional texts
▪ Obtain a broad understanding of the basis of traditional Tibetan Medicine
▪ Learn Kunye Massage techniques, including the identification and application of muscle release points and specific points
▪ Learn the external therapies employed in Kunye, including hot and cold compresses, herbal poultices, and application of heated oils to specific points
▪ Engage in extensive hands-on practical training under instructors’ guidance
▪ Study the anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology of the human body
▪ Study the etiology and pathology of illness that pertains to the practice of Kunye Massage
▪ Learn the characteristics, benefits, formulation, and application of various herbs and therapeutic oils used in Kunye practice
▪ Learn the traditional code of ethics and conduct of the Tibetan Kunye therapist
▪ Learn ethics and professionalism to apply in the modern workplace
▪ Learn skills of business development and management of massage therapy practice
Program Dates & Schedule (2012/13):
· Semester One (252 hours):
January 26th–May 26th 2012
Weekly Schedule*:
Tuesdays: 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Thursday: 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Saturdays: 8:30am -12:30pm and 2pm – 6pm
Total weekly class hours: 16
· Semester Two (248 hours):
August 28thst–December 20th 2012
Weekly Schedule*:
Tuesdays: 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Thursday: 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Saturdays: 8:30am -12:30pm and 2pm – 6pm
Total weekly class hours: 16
· Semester Three (150 hours):
January 29thst—May 25th 2013
Weekly Schedule*:
Tuesdays: 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Thursday: 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Saturdays: 8:30am -12:30pm
Total weekly class hours: 10
Supervised Clinical Practice (100 Hours):
Variable schedules based on student availability.
Possible time slots include:
Summer Break 2012, May 27th – August 27th
Sundays: 10am – 8pm During Second and Third Semester:
Sundays: 10am – 8pm Mondays: 10am – 8pm
*Class Schedules are subject to change
Program Tuition by Semester:
· Semester One: $2,500.00
· Semester Two: $2,500.00
· Semester Three: $1,850.00
· Total Program Tuition: $6,850.00
Course Curriculum First Semester: Anatomy, Physiology & Kinesiology (150 hours) Based on the traditional Tibetan Medicine texts (rgyud bzhi), students will study the nature of the human body, its systems and their functions including:
• Embryology & development from conception
• Traditional divisions & anatomical measurements of the body
• Signs of decline of health
• Integumentary System
• Musculoskeletal System
• Cardiovascular System
• Blood Lymphatic and Immune systems
• Nervous system
• Endocrine system
• Respiratory system
• Digestive system
• Urinary system
• Reproductive system
• Learn the location, identification and palpation of the bellies and attachments of the major muscles of external movement of the body
First and Second Semester:
Kunye Massage Theory & Technique I (225 hours)
This course presents theoretical study based on the traditional Tibetan Medicine texts (rgyud bzhi), as well as extensive hands-on training in technique. The goals of this first level course include:
• Learn the principles & theory of Kunye Therapy, based on the traditional texts of the Tibetan Medicine lineage
• Learn the theory & practice of Kunye massage techniques, including the identification and application of muscle release points and specific points.
• Learn the theory & practice of external therapies employed in Kunye, including hot and cold compresses, herbal poultices, and application of heated oils to specific points
• Learn the effects of touch and massage techniques
• Learn to Identify and describe the physiological effects of touch and specific massage
• Identify and describe potential emotional effects of touch and specific massage techniques
• Define and describe the interpersonal and physical components of a therapeutic environment
• Develop competency in musculoskeletal palpation and pain assessment skills relating to the appropriate application of massage techniques
• Develop a safe and effective treatment plan, based on client goals, assessment findings, and understanding of effects of massage
• Write clear, concise and accurate notes of client treatment sessions
• Demonstrate commonly recognized techniques that are within the scope of practice and training for massage therapy disciplines
• Demonstrate techniques that are appropriate for each body area, including endangerment sites
• Demonstrate the use of draping during treatment as a professional boundary
• Identify and practice appropriate methods of sanitation and personal hygiene in the performance of massage sessions
• Identify and describe the effect of physical fitness and life style habits on the performance of massage techniques
• Identify and demonstrate biomechanical skills necessary for the safe and effective performance of massage techniques
Second and Third Semseter:
Kunye Massage Theory & Technique II (145 hours)
This course builds on the study and training presented in the first level course. Students will further develop their skills, techniques, body mechanics, table-side manner and other important aspects of Kunye Massage Therapy practice. They will learn the qualities and characteristics of oils, herbs and minerals that are useful in Kunye Massage and external therapies, as well as their indications according to the season and the condition of the client. Students will also learn the formulation and preparation of medicinal oils and creams, and their application in treatment.
Pathology of Disease (70 hours)
This course presents theoretical study of the common pathologies encountered in the practice of massage and how they impact the application of massage. Students will study the etiology of disease, as well as the nature of health and disease. They will also learn the specific indications, contraindications, and precautions to the application of massage in the presence of these pathologies. In addition students will learn how to prevent these pathologies through the knowledge of diet and behavior according to Tibetan Medicine.
Ethics & Professionalism (60 hours)
This course presents the principles of modern business ethics and
professionalism, as well as the traditional code of ethics and conduct required of the Tibetan Kunye Therapist. The goals of this course include:
• In-depth study of Professionalism and Communication
• Learn the traditional code of ethics and conduct of the Tibetan Kunye therapist
• Define and demonstrate active listening, rapport, empathy and feedback
• Identify strategies to effectively deal with emotional and behavioral client responses to massage therapy treatment
• Describe the principles of conflict resolution and apply conflict resolution skills effectively in the client-therapist relationship
• Define and discuss the differences between a personal and a professional relationship
• Discuss the importance of professional boundaries. Describe techniques for establishing and maintaining safe and respectful boundaries with clients
• Identify and describe the purpose of a code of ethics. Identify and describe the purpose of Standards of Practice specific to massage therapy
• Identify confidentiality principles related to massage therapy
• Identify common ethical situations in massage therapy and strategies to effectively resolve ethical issues
• Identify and design effective methods for time management, client scheduling, and maintenance of the work environment
• Outline an employment strategy, including short and long-term professional goals
• Create, maintain and identify legal requirements for retaining client, financial and tax records
• Demonstrate knowledge of federal, state and local regulations as they pertain to massage therapy practice
• Identify the elements of effective job search and marketing materials (such as resumes, brochures, business cards)
• Identify and discuss common methods of marketing for massage therapy
• Identify strategies to develop and maintain a client base
• Discuss the value of ongoing education and skill development as a professional
• Describe methods for identifying advanced training programs to enhance performance, knowledge and skills.
• Identify the role of professional associations for massage therapists.
Variable Hours Over Summer Break, Second and Third Semester:
Supervised Student Practice Clinic (100 hours)
In this clinical practicum, students will apply their training and develop their skills through instructor-supervised practice of massage and external therapies.
Final Examinations of Theoretical Knowledge and Practical Skills:
The final examinations of this certification course include:
• Demonstrate accurate theoretical knowledge through written examinations
• Demonstrate competency in skills through practical examinations
for more info visit http://www.tibetanmedicineschool.org
Advice for Health and Long Life: Helpful Tips from the Heart of the Medicine Buddha
In the classical Tibetan Medicine Texts (Gyud Zhi), the wise and compassionate Medicine Buddha, known as "The Great Sage", instructs his students on the proper diet, lifestyle, medicines and therapies to promote long life, health, and happiness.
Considerations for the Autumn Season:
The changing seasons can influence our health. The reason for this is related with the Five Elements, both inside our bodies and in external conditions. As the elemental qualities of the seasons shift, for example from dry to rainy, or warm to cool, this affects the balance of elements within our bodies. Therefore, we should adjust our diet and lifestyle to be in harmony with the seasons.
As summer moves into autumn, there is an increase of the fire element. The weather is dry, the sun is hot, vegetation and crops are fully matured. This causes the arising of the tripa humor (bile) within our bodies. Arising tripa may increase symptoms such as headaches, heartburn, or diarrhea.
Participate, support, join - SSI for Tibetan Studies
Summer Greetings! Dear Friends of the Shang Shung Institute, This summer marks a season of great change for the Shang Shung Institute US Branch. As many of you know, the US branch of the Shang Shung Institute has seen great accomplishments over the past 6 years. Thanks to the incredible perseverance and commitment of the director of the Shang Shung Institute School of Tibetan Medicine, Dr. Phuntsog Wangmo, the first graduating class of Western trained Tibetan Doctors completed their training between 2005 and 2009. After completing their internship and final examination at Qinghai University and Hospital in Tibet, the graduates were awarded Menpa (Tibetan Doctor) degrees from the University. We are delighted and excited that in 2012 two more classes will travel to Qinghai for internship and examination at the Qinghai University and Hospital in Tibet. Another great achievement of the Shang Shung Institute over the past few years has been the establishment of the Massachusetts state licensure in massage therapy. Under the direction of Dr. Phuntsog Wangmo, SSI offers now the most in-depth training in Tibetan Kunye Massage Therapy in the West. And yet, regardless of these incredible accomplishments, the Shang Shung Institute and the School of Tibetan Medicine still have to undergo a lot of development and adaptation in order to fulfill their true potential. SSI has recently made two big decisions to this end. Firstly, as of July 1st, SSI opened a new classroom and workshop space in Florence, MA. In contrast to the Institute’s original Conway location, this new space in Florence will provide a more central location for all SSI activities. This was a necessary step to begin a 1.5 year Tibetan Kunye Massage Certification Program in January of 2012. It will allow for both students and the needed clientele for student clinical training to easily access the school from the surrounding regions. Secondly, for the time being SSI has decided to focus on creating better online classes for all levels of interest, including the complete four-year curriculum geared towards Menpa certification in Qinghai, Tibet. This decision was made so that more people with various life circumstances can more easily learn Tibetan Medicine. This new direction increases the need for more collaboration with regional Tibetan healing centers and regional practical trainings to supplement and integrate the online theoretical material with real practical experience. The foundation for all of these decisions rests on SSI’s goal of helping create international standards and protection for Tibetan Medicine so that it remains available for countless generations to benefit from. Our long term goal is for SSI to become an International University in all five sciences of Tibetan culture: the jewel of Tibetan culture is one that must not be lost or diluted. It is now vital, more than ever before, that SSI needs the dedicated support of those who care about the future of Tibetan culture. It is in times of change that community support is so crucial. In whatever way you can, please help us all at SSI accomplish its great endeavors. If you are interested in our programs, join them! If you have skills to offer the Institute, use them!! If you have feedback for us to improve, tell us! If you represent any organization that would like to work with us, let us know! And of course, if you have any funds that you’d like to help us with the necessary renovations for our new space, the much needed advertising for our new massage program and to help us with our operating costs please see the various options below. Please also read below our "wish list" in case you may have specific skills or supplies to offer. Below you will also find information on all of our upcoming offerings. Thank you all so much for your continued support. We wouldn’t exist without you. Sincerely, The Shang Shung Institute US Branch Board and Staff Ways to donate: Online: Click Here Check: Payable to – Shang Shung Institute PO Box 278 Conway, MA 01341 Skilled Needs: New Treasurer Graphic Designers Web Developers Communications Consultants/Directors Contractors Committed and enthusiastic team members Supply Needs: Lightweight (plastic) folding tables and chairs Construction materials (plywood, etc..) Office Supplies Current SSI-USA Staff: Dr. Phuntsog Wangmo, Tibetan Medicine School Director Matthew Schmookler, Operations Manager Joey Mella, Tibetan Medicine School Assistant Marina De Paula, Secretary and Bookstore Manager Current SSI-USA Board: Paola Zamperini, Board Member Jim Valby, Board Member Anastasia McGhee, Board Member Ed Hayes, Treasurer International Shang Shung Institute for Tibetan Studies London: www.shangshunguk.org USA: www.shangshung.org Russia: www.shangshunginstitute.ru Austria: www.ssi-austria.at Publications: www.shangshungpublications.org Multimedia Portal: www.shangshunginstitute.com/ ![]() |
Tibetan Medicine Summer Intensives
Join the Shang Shung Tibetan Medicine School this summer in Florence, MA for one of our summer intensive courses. This summer's intensives include Tibetan Medicinal Herbs August 1st - 6th and Tibetan Kunye Massage Level 1 August 8 - 13th. The intensives are great for all levels of interest including supplementing an existing healing arts practice, gaining credits towards one of our certificate levels or to simply learn about Tibetan Medicine. Read here for detailed information
![]() The American Branch of the Shang Shung Institute has recently received another very generous offer from a friend with a long-time interest in Tibetan Medicine. This friend would like to help continue funding the Khenpo Tsenam Rinpoche Scholarship Fund for students of the School of Tibetan Medicine. The donor's businesses, JCROWS.com and the J. Crow Company look to support this very positive development in holistic health care by establishing the scholarship again this year for the 2011-2012 school year. So far we have received $500 of the $2500 to fulfill his matching donation raising $5000 in total. Donate Here! |
![]() Fall WorkshopThis fall SSI will offer a unique workshop in our new Florence, MA location. Professor Paola Zamperini will teach about prominent female teachers of Tibetan Buddhism in the workshop Enlightening Passion: Sexuality and Gender in Tibetan Buddhism. Read more here |

Tibetan Kunye Massage Certification Program
Free Podcast on Tibetan Medicine
Here's the various ways to listen in:
link to the itunes page: http://itunes.apple.com/us/
link to the podcast on healing powers:
http://healingpowers.net/
link to the direct RSS feed:
http://healingpowers.hipcast.
Tibetan Medicine and Massage Classes: New Florence, MA location, early bird special and more!!!
The Shang Shung Institute is very happy to announce several new developments. Firstly, we are happy to offer a $100 discount towards registration for our intensives before July 14th. Please contact us right away if you would like to take advantage of this special offer. Secondly, we are very excited to announce that these Summer Intensives will take place in our new Florence, MA location located in the Florence Community Center at 140 Pine St., Suite 10. It is still possible to stay in the dormitory in Conway, MA during the intensives. Rides will be coordinated to the Florence classroom. Also our Tibetan Kunye Massage: Level 1 intensive has been approved for 36 NCCAOM PDA points towards continuing education. Lastly, we are offficially announcing the launch of our all new 750 hour comprehensive training in Tibetan Kunye Massage at our new Florence, MA location beginning Spring 2012 .Please contact us with any questions regarding these exctiing developments!
Tibetan Medicinal Herbs: Learn, recognize and prepare


All New 750 Hour Tibetan Kunye Massage Training
Support the Scholarship Fund for Tibetan Medicine Students of SSI!!!!!
Dear all interested in the Shang Shung Institute School of Tibetan Medicine,
This donor has agreed to match donations to continue the School of Tibetan Medicine Scholarship fund, up to $2500, for a total of $5000 towards the continuation of the scholarship fund. We have added 60 more days to receive all donations towards the matching grant, so the deadline for all donations is: July 9, 2011.
The Scholarship is need-based, and students are asked to apply. The board and staff of the SSI-USA will choose the winner or winners for this year's scholarship(s) by the beginning of the Fall, 2011 semester. Last year we were proud to be able to offer scholarships to two of our students for the 2010-2011 school year, based solely upon the donations collected from generous donors like you! We would love to be able to continue to offer this wonderful gift of learning!
To send a donation, please contact me, Matthew Schmookler, through email at:matt@shangshung.org or call me through the SSI office phone at 413-369-4928. You can also donate directly through our webstore here, using multiples of $10 to create a donation of any amount you wish.
Matthew Schmookler
Shang Shung Institute - USA
Announcing Summer 2011 Northwest Washington State Tour
Seattle & Bellingham WA - June 20-28th
Nashalla G. Nyinda TMD, LMT will be returning for a summer visit!
Seattle, WA
June 20th - 22nd & June 27-28th
Bellingham, WA
June 23rd - 26th
FREE PUBLIC TALK
Why Diet & Lifestyle is the Pillar of Tibetan Medicine Treatment
Thursday June 23 7-8:30pm -
Bellingham CoHousing
2614 Donovan Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225
Consults & Traditional Kunye Tibetan Massage Available by Appointment
Call Dr. Nyinda at 303 570 8242 for appointments in BOTH cities
Conception and Embryology: Webcast Public Talk this Sunday!!!
Sunday, May 1st, 2011 1-3pm
An introduction to the basic Tibetan medical theories regarding the conception of life, as well as the biological phases of fetal development inside a mother's womb. Buddhist concepts such as karma and consciousness play a major role in this explanation of the basis for human life.
To attend IN PERSON:
Cost: By donation
To attend BY WEBCAST:
Anyone with an ample internet connection and a web browser should be able to connect to this FREE service.
http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/converter.html
If you would like to donate to the costs needed in order to help the Tibetan Medicine live webcast project continue, please click here to donate directly through the SSI-USA online store, or contact us directly at: secretary@shangshung.org or 413-369-4928.
Please feel free to write us with any questions or comments about this service at: secretary@shangshung.org. Also, please feel free to pass this message along to anyone who you feel may be interested.








