CPE: 12 CPE points

Please bring: Massage table and towels.

TMJ Dysfunction and the ANS: An Integrative Bodywork Approach

This face-to-face seminar investigates the complexity of TMJ dysfunction from a psychosomatic perspective. We will explore the anatomy and physiology of the TMJ structure at depth and its reciprocal relationship with the autonomic nervous system. We will primarily explore integrative bodywork protocols (including myofascial release and remedial massage techniques, acupressure and craniosacral therapy) to treat TMJ dysfunction effectively.

The total neurological input to the brain from sensory and proprioceptor nerves during mandibular motion acts as a significant pattern setter for the motor cortex. Approximately 38% of motor muscle activity particularly in the neck, the pectoral muscles and the pelvic region is directly influenced by TMJ dynamics.

These dynamics are often caused by a complex layering of physical and emotional triggers which are directly interwoven with the feedback loop firing of the autonomic nervous system. Often subconscious emotional themes can activate hypertonicity within the muscles of the TMJ mechanism, thus causing teeth clenching (bruxism) at night or even during the day in its more extreme form. We will explore a multi-layered bodywork approach to engage with these conditions to restore better balance within the physiology of the TMJ.

Conny Pulvermacher

Conny Pulvermacher has been a clinical practitioner, yoga teacher and holistic health educator for nearly twenty years. She holds qualifications and has undergone training in bodywork, nutrition and yoga, specialising in craniosacral therapy (biodynamic and structural).

Conny has developed an integrative approach to therapeutic practice combining the non-invasive approach of craniosacral therapy with myofascial release, positional release, acupressure, kinesiology and remedial massage to facilitate the integration of experience at multiple levels.

She structures nutritional advice and movement therapy as additional tools to empower clients with self-help ability within the rhythm of everyday life. Conny has taught a range of integrative workshops focussing on holistic health, seeking balance through a better understanding of the interface of human anatomy and physiology with thoughts and emotions and the support that good nutrition, supportive movement and meditation can offer to that interface.

Conny is currently the organiser of and a teaching assistant in a three-year diploma training in Craniosacral therapy held in Sydney. Conny is a committed meditation practitioner. In her therapeutic practice and her lifestyle she holds a deep core belief: mind and body are inextricably interwoven with each other. When this unity is supported holistically, enabling a better balance within the autonomic nervous system, the inherent health held within every metabolism can express itself much more successfully. The commitment to that belief expresses itself in every level of Conny’s therapeutic practice and teaching work.

Cancellation:If it is deemed that a seminar is not viable, it may be postponed or cancelled by ATMS.

Please note that it is not permissible to bring children to ATMS seminars