8 Extraordinary Vessels

I recently spent three days in a seminar in Melbourne with Yvonne Farrell, master acupuncturist from LA, studying the advanced acupuncture system called the 8 Extraordinary Vessels (8EV), and I wanted to share a little of what I understood while it was still fresh.

The Taoists believe we choose to incarnate in a body in order to pursue a specific curriculum, for the purpose of refinement, or clearing karma. Whether or not we consciously chose it, our spirit is subject to the realities of that incarnation. Once we recognise the parameters of it, we can make the most of the opportunity it holds.

The 8EVs are used to access the deepest aspects of ourselves, to assist us in fulfilling that earthly curriculum.

This is different from the acupuncture I've most commonly applied, using the 12 primary channels, which is generally used to reduce specific symptoms, pain, digestive issues, sleep, stress. The 8EVs work at a deeper level, addressing the patterns and life themes underlying those symptoms.

What's wonderful for me personally is this system confirms what I've felt for a long time, that the somatic work of helping people access their own body's sensations is deeply healing in itself.

As 8EV treatment unfolds, a person often becomes more able to sense their own physical experience, and to recognise their symptoms not just as isolated flare ups, but as part of a longer pattern, connected to a bigger story.

This system is deep. It works with habituated or addictive behaviour, the imprint of trauma, or transitional times like motherhood or menopause, the roots beneath particular symptoms.

Reducing pain will always matter, but we're looking for something deeper to help bring us closer to meaning and alignment with life itself.

For extra context

Yvonne Farrell, DAOM, is a long time student of Jeffrey Yuen.

Jeffrey Yuen comes from a Daoist lineage, an ordained priest of the Jade Purity and Complete Reality traditions, and trained under Daoist Master Yu Wen. Farrell has been practicing for over 30 years, holds a Doctoral Degree from Emperor's College, and Jeffrey Yuen has given her his blessing to continue teaching the 8 Extraordinary Vessels and Channels. She's also authored two books, Psycho-emotional Pain and the Eight Extraordinary Vessels, and Acupuncture for Surviving Adversity.

If something here speaks to you, you can work with me in person at my clinic in Preston and at The Yin Palace gatherings in Melbourne, or online through my qigong community and Rage Rising. The Three Treasures Pathway is offered both in person and online.

With Love,
Anny 🌹