The Structural Essential series is a set of intensive soft-tissue technique courses divided into functional regions. Combining movement and manual techniques for the most efficient and long-lasting results, and using the latest research on the interaction between skeleton, muscles, joints, and fascial proprioceptors, this series of workshops will take you to a new level in therapy. Designed with the busy manual therapist in mind, each Structural Essentials event gives you a new understanding of the relevant area. The content will outline how the structural and functional anatomy relates to many common issues as well as to the rest of the body. Based on many new and established approaches this series will give you the skills in palpation, BodyReading, and functional analysis needed for the modern multidisciplinary therapist.

Abdomen, Chest and Breath – The breath is an essential food for life and its passage in and out of the body can be compromised by structural issues in the trunk. The trunk must also act to support the shoulders as well as the neck and head. Its position and relationship with the pelvis can therefore be vital for correct mechanics of the upper limbs and head, neck, and jaw.

This course focuses on ribcage and thoracic spine mechanics and includes:

• The anatomy and physiology of the breath
• Various therapeutic views of the ‘normal’ breath
• Techniques for abdominal fasciae, ribs, vertebral rib joints, and mediastinal visceral tissues, scalenes, and lumbar muscles
• Techniques for facilitation of the ‘breath wave’ into the front, back, and sides, as well as into each ‘quadrant’ of the rib cage

Note:  Anatomy Trains in Structure & Function course MUST be taken before taking the SE courses. Familiarity with the Anatomy Trains lines and concepts is key to getting the most from the program.

The Structural Essentials workshops are most easily absorbed in the order outlined below but you can do them in any order as time permits.

1. Arches and Legs – 3 days
2. Fans of the Hip – 2 ½ days
3. Abdomen, Chest and Breath – 2 ½ days
4. Tensegrity Spine – 2 days
5. Shoulders & Arms – 2 days
6. Head, Neck & Jaw – 2 days

Instructor Info:
Cristy Harper began her studies in Massage Therapy in 2003 in Victoria BC. Her fascination with human anatomy has fueled her educational endeavors, which lead her to certification in ATSI in Seattle Washington in 2011, followed by her advanced certification in Maine in 2014. She also trained and certified in Neuro-functional Acupuncture in 2015 at McMaster University, has joined Tom & her colleagues for 2 human anatomy dissections in Tempe Arizona, and has extensive personal experience in natural bodybuilding, strength, and conditioning.

This past year Cristy traveled extensively as an Assistant Teacher for Anatomy trains in Canada, USA, New Zealand, and Australia. She hopes to continue to inspire the next generation of bodywork and movement professionals, teaching the Anatomy Trains Structural Essentials in Canada, and abroad.

Cristy & her husband Justin made Winnipeg Manitoba their most recent place to call home in support of her husband’s career in the Canadian Armed Forces. They are proud to support their Country and look forward to each move as an opportunity to grow and learn and embrace what each Canadian city has to offer.

To Book this Course – 
Send an Email to info@physiocarephysiotherapy.com
Course Fee – CAD 750 + taxes = $847.50 until August 8th, 2025
                      CAD 850 + taxes = $960.50 after August 8th, 2025
Cancellation Fee – $100 with Minimum of 14 days’ notice. The full fee will be charged after that.