If you’ve been following my writings, you’ll know that it’s been a while since I’ve written. If you’re wise, you’ll have noted that I’m in school. And if you’re really wise and have a clue what a Naprapath is, you’ll note that I’m in med school, studying to be a doctor.
It’s an interesting place to be, in school studying to be a doctor of Naprapathy.
First of all, few people actually understand what a Naprapath does.
Secondly, I’m sure that some who have a basic understanding don’t understand how much we’re asked to master.
Let me start by saying this: I love learning. I’m not going to bother spending my time with something that doesn’t ask me to broaden my horizons or require me to think in new ways. In all of my endeavors, I’ve pursued the best education I could. And here I am, at SUNM studying Naprapathy. For those who have similar standards, perhaps this means something. If not, let me say more.
Naprapaths are connective tissue specialists. With connective tissue (fascia) layering over EVERY aspect of the body (muscles, organs, nerves, blood vessels…), we’d better be well versed in the body. And since fascia is really just one continuous sheath of pocketed tissue, we’d better understand how all the systems are connected. Since the nervous system (another all encompassing system) is the primary focus alongside fascia for Naprapaths, I’ve also heard them referred to as neuromyologists. (For all those attached to western medicine and the fancy terms, you might like this.)
As expected, I’m delving more and more into the deeper layers of anatomy and physiology. No longer is it sufficient simply to understand the basics. I will now be able to explain not only where the muscles are, but where the nerves are and where the circulatory system goes. The basics of cellular metabolism are no longer sufficient. Not only will I be able to tell you about nutrition, but I’ll be able to explain to you Why your body needs attention, at a cellular level. Muscle function and structural form will be supported with exercises aimed at bringing them to full potential in a physiologically thoughtful way.
Since it’s a preventative medicine, however, I sense a general hesitation to consider this doctorate on par with an allopathic one. Hogglewash. Naprapaths have the potential to help reverse the root patterns causing disease as well as prevent future ones from forming. Wouldn’t it be nice if most doctors did this?? Let me be clear. I’m as thankful for the skills of an allopathic doctor as anyone else. In my opinion, we all need each other. But because we aren’t able to prescribe medications, we have to be resourceful and well-versed in the body’s natural systems and encourage true, deep healing within. What a beautifully empowering idea.
Now, it’s true. I haven’t been to med school so I can’t speak any better than someone else in med school for the first time. But I can tell you that many doctors along my path haven’t been so thoughtfully and sensibly trained. What’s more, SUNM is licensed by higher ed, and Naprapaths in New Mexico are overseen by the medical board. With such standardizing bodies overseeing my education, I don’t think I have time to entertain questions about the depth of my degree. I have too much else to do…
