a 501(c)3 Organization
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MEET SUNDAY
GUEST SPEAKERS
Ali Wesley & Ann Teachworth
Jan Dommerholt
Kathy Dooley
Jim Donak
Jim Pulciani
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Ali Wesley & Ann Teachworth
Allow us to introduce Alison Wesley and Ann Teachworth, two dynamic individuals who share a profound passion for yoga, anatomy, and the transformative power of movement.
Ali, as she's affectionately known, has always been captivated by the intricate workings of the human body. From childhood, her fascination with anatomy was evident; her favorite
toy growing up was her father’s anatomy book. This curiosity propelled her into a lifelong journey of understanding not just the physical aspects of our being but also the
interconnectedness of our thoughts, actions, and environment.
Driven by personal experiences, including the loss of a loved one and a debilitating back injury, Ali embarked on a path of exploration and healing through yoga and therapeutic
movement. Her journey led her to discover the Franklin Method, a transformative approach that revolutionized her understanding of functional anatomy and embodied connection.
As a member of the Franklin Method Faculty, Ali now shares her wealth of knowledge and experience through teaching, writing, and facilitating transformative experiences for
others.
Ann's journey into movement and anatomy began at a young age through yoga and dance. Her innate curiosity about the human body and its potential for growth and transformationpropelled her into a diverse range of studies, including complementary and alternative healing approaches. It was through her exploration of the Franklin Method that Ann experienced a profound shift in her understanding of yoga, mindfulness, and embodied anatomy.
As a Franklin Method Educator, Licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Life Coach, and Integrative healthcare practitioner, Ann's work is dedicated to helping individuals understand and embody their inherent design and function. Through client work and
continuing education for manual therapists and movement professionals, she empowers others to move more fully and freely in their bodies, minds, and lives.
Together, Alison Wesley and Ann Teachworth are a formidable duo, sharing their expertise and passion for anatomy, movement, and holistic wellness. As guest speakers, they bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and inspiration to our conference, offering attendees a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the human body, one
bone at a time.
Ali & Ann's Topic
The interview with Ali & Ann at the summit promises an immersive journey titled "Sensing Through the Layers," offering a unique exploration of embodiment. Their innovative approach focuses on delving into the layers of the body, starting from the skin and descending to the viscera, while embodying various qualities at each level. This experiential journey aims to provide participants with a profound understanding of embodiment and its application in anatomical study. By integrating embodiment practices into their discussion, Ali & Ann offer valuable insights into the benefits for manual therapists, movement therapists, and the general human population alike. Through this interview, attendees can expect to gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of body and mind, as well as practical techniques for enhancing both personal and professional well-being.
Ali & Ann's Giveaway
As part of her contribution to the summit, Ali and Ann are offering six doable, functional movements that we all really need to do (everyday).
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Dr. Jan Dommerholt
We are thrilled to announce Dr. Jan Dommerholt as our distinguished guest speaker for the upcoming event. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Dr. Dommerholt is a globally renowned expert in the fields of myofascial pain, chronic pain conditions, external focus exercise, and performing arts physiotherapy.
As a prolific author, Dr. Dommerholt has contributed significantly to the literature with four books, over 80 textbook chapters, and about 150 scientific articles. His works, some of which have been translated into multiple languages, delve into topics ranging from myofascial pain to complex regional pain syndrome, demonstrating his profound understanding and expertise in these areas.
Dr. Dommerholt's impact extends beyond academia, as evidenced by his numerous accolades and recognitions. He has received prestigious awards such as the Henry O. and Florence P. Practice Award from the American Physical Therapy Association and the Janet G. Travell Excellence in Education Award from the National Association of Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists.
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In addition to his scholarly pursuits, Dr. Dommerholt is an active participant in the global healthcare community. He has conducted courses and lectures worldwide, sharing his knowledge and insights with audiences across the United States, Europe, Australia, India, Central and South America, and the Middle East. His expertise has earned him invitations as a keynote speaker at prominent conferences by esteemed organizations such as the American Academy of Orofacial Pain and the Fascia Research Society.
Dr. Dommerholt's commitment to advancing the field is further demonstrated through his editorial roles and service on advisory boards for leading journals in physical therapy and manual therapy. He is also recognized for his role as an expert witness, providing invaluable insights for cases related to physical therapy, biomechanical trauma, and low-speed motor vehicle accidents.
With specialties ranging from performing arts medicine to chronic pain management, Dr. Jan Dommerholt brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our event. We are honored to have him as our guest speaker and eagerly anticipate the invaluable contributions he will make to our program.
Dr. Dommerholt's Topic
Jan Dommerholt's interview in the summit promises a captivating discussion on the intersection of dry needling, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and anatomy. Dr. Dommerholt challenges conventional approaches to anatomy education, advocating for a shift towards a more clinically relevant understanding, emphasizing function over mere topography. He asserts that a three-dimensional comprehension of human anatomy is crucial for mastering the intricacies of dry needling, especially considering its implications for fascial dynamics and the potential risks of incorrect needle placement. As the founder of Bethesda Physiocare, recognized as an Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Center of Excellence, Dr. Dommerholt brings a wealth of experience in treating patients with hypermobility-related issues. His unique approach incorporates external-focus exercises tailored to the specific anatomical challenges posed by EDS, shedding light on the altered fascial organization and reduced inter-fascial gliding observed in these patients. This discussion promises invaluable insights into the clinical implications of hypermobility and the role of fascia in pain perception and motor function.
Dr. Dommerholta's Giveaway
As part of his contribution to the summit, Dr. Dommerholt is offering a signed copy of Dommerholt, J., & Fernández-de-las-Peñas, C. (2018). Trigger point dry needling; an evidenced and clinical-based approach (2 ed.). Churchill Livingstone.
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Dr. Kathy Dooley
We are honored to introduce Dr. Kathy Dooley as one of our esteemed guest speakers for the upcoming event. Dr. Dooley is a distinguished chiropractor and educator, renowned for her expertise in anatomy and movement science.
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Currently practicing within ID Lab New York, a multi-disciplinary clinic, Dr. Dooley serves as an adjunct instructor at prestigious institutions including Weill Cornell Medical College, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and New York University's College of Dentistry. Her dedication to education extends globally, as she holds positions as a visiting professor at Saint George's University Medical School in Grenada, West Indies.
She is also a lead instructor for the Immaculate Dissection LLC, NeuroKinetic Therapy seminar series, and Somatic Senses Education, where she shares her expertise in movement assessment and rehabilitation.
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She is also an Anatomy Expert on Demand with two pharmaceutical companies, Abbvie Pharmaceuticals and Ipsen Phaemaceuticals, performing dissecting and teaching prosections to injection specialists.
With a diverse array of certifications, including Active Release Technique (ART), NeuroKinetic Therapy (NKT™), and Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS), Dr. Dooley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our event. Her dedication to promoting optimal movement and health aligns perfectly with the goals of our conference.
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We are thrilled to have Dr. Kathy Dooley join us as a guest speaker, and we eagerly anticipate the invaluable insights she will share with our audience.
Dr. Dooley's Topic
Dr. Kathy Dooley's interview at the summit will focus on the crucial topic of "Anatomy Review of the Intervertebral Disc," shedding light on pain and nerve referral patterns associated with this intricate anatomical structure. With her expertise in anatomy and movement science, Dr. Dooley will provide participants with a comprehensive overview of the intervertebral disc, exploring its anatomy in detail and unraveling the complexities of pain pathways and nerve referral patterns that are commonly associated with disc-related issues. Through this insightful discussion, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the interplay between anatomical structures and pain mechanisms, equipping them with valuable insights for clinical practice and therapeutic interventions. Dr. Dooley's expertise and engaging presentation style promise to make this interview a highlight of the summit, offering attendees a wealth of knowledge and practical insights into the assessment and management of disc-related conditions.
Dr. Dooley's Giveaway
As part of her contribution to the summit, Dr. Dooley is offering a free online course from Immaculate Dissection ($200-300 value).
Jim Donak
It is with great pleasure that we introduce Jim Donak as our distinguished guest speaker for the upcoming event. From a young age, Jim's fascination with the human body has been evident, sparking a lifelong journey of exploration and study.
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Beginning his journey at the age of 8, Jim immersed himself in self-directed studies of anatomy and physiology, laying the foundation for his extensive knowledge in the healing and movement arts. His diverse background includes a wide array of disciplines, from Tai Chi and kinesiology to The Alexander Technique and Neuro-Linguistic Programming, reflecting his multifaceted approach to understanding the complexities of the human body.
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Jim's passion for dynamic movement knows no bounds, encompassing practices such as Chinese martial arts, circus arts, sports, dance, and various outdoor recreational activities. With over four decades of experience teaching circus arts and functional movement, Jim has garnered a reputation for his expertise and innovation.
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As a guest speaker, Jim brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table. His teachings encompass anatomy and physiology, structure-based bodywork techniques, and sports applications for Tui Na, offering attendees a unique perspective on musculoskeletal healing and athletic development.
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In addition to his teaching endeavours, Jim maintains a thriving private practice in Berkeley, where he specializes in musculoskeletal healing and athletic development through a combination of manual and exercise therapies.
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We are honoured to have Jim Donak join us as a guest speaker, and we eagerly anticipate the valuable insights and knowledge he will share with our audience.
Jim's Topic
Jim’s interview topic for the summit revolves around "The Transformational Power of Cadaver Study"
This session delves into how cadaver study has the capacity to affect us in immeasurable and at times conflicting ways. Discussed will be how time in the lab compels us to comprehend the incomprehensible and how it rarely, if ever, does not affect how we perceive and interact with the world at large.
The struggles and discoveries in the lab help us to see ourselves as a part of nature and in a moment of time. These experiences nurture our personal growth in ways that are as valuable as the anatomy that is learned. Minds are blown, hearts are opened, and the ineffability of the world is revealed as we find that the words we use to describe it fall short.
Jim's Giveaway
The main expression of Jim’s decades of experience as a therapist and circus instructor is through an approach which he developed called Physical Limitation Elimination. It is an artful and refined method of looking at any somatic behaviour, deconstructing it to is foundation components, assessing the thresholds of each one (alone and in concert) to identify limitations in capability and then constructing challenges and address these limitations. These challenges focus on safe, effective approaches that increase one’s capacity and adaptability. These created ‘progressions towards excellence’ work for all levels of movement ability from severe injury to elite athletic development.
As part of his contribution to the summit Jim Donak is offering a 90min Question and Answer session sharing and discussing his insightful and innovative approach. The session promises to present new and innovative ways of artfully creating customized exercises. It is a large volume of work that involves many facets, all of which Jim will be happy to share and discuss.