Course Descriptions:
Studies have shown that mind-body therapies are a promising option for rehabilitation and various health challenges, especially chronic disease. Ai (meaning “love”) Chi (“breath/essence/ being”) is an aquatic mind-body therapy that combines Tai-Chi and Qi Gong concepts with Watsu techniques and is performed standing in shoulder-depth warm water using a combination of deep breathing and slow, broad movements of the arms, legs, and torso.

Ai Chi takes advantage of the properties of water, fostering a range of motion while challenging balance (safely) and facilitating core strength and stability. The series of movements are simple but effective and become meditative when performed repeatedly and coordinated with the breath.

This educational presentation will review:

• Mechanistic studies demonstrating how mind-body therapies may improve clinical outcomes;
• Evidence on pain neuroscience and its integration into Ai Chi clinical practice;
• Current research on the effects of Ai Chi on pain, balance, functional activities, and quality of life in the context of Parkinson's disease, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, balance impairments, back pain, and more;
• The underlying principles of Ai Chi;
• Innovative insights into clinical applications; and
• Video case studies of Ai Chi application within individual physical therapy sessions.

Students, newly licensed therapists, and experienced clinicians will all benefit from the presentation.

Course Objectives & Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the learner will be able to:

• Recognize current evidence and possible mechanisms for the benefits of mind-body therapies and pain neuroscience;
• Understand current evidence on Ai Chi to address pain, balance, functional activity, and quality of life;
• Practice the basic principles of Ai Chi; and
• Develop individualized treatment plans with elements of Ai Chi to address specific therapy goals.

Instructor: Emily Dunlap, PT
Emily's involvement with the Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy dates back almost to its inception, holding several positions, including Chairperson and Instructor of the APTA-sponsored Certificate in Aquatic Physical Therapy Clinical Competency (CAPTCC) program. She has authored chapters in 3 Aquatic Therapy related textbooks and is a national speaker on various aquatic physical therapy topics. Emily is currently the owner of Aquatic Therapy Pro and manages a variety of roles as a researcher, clinician, and education consultant. She has recently published original research on waterproof dressing usage in aquatic therapy settings and is currently working on more research on the same subject. In addition, she is presently working on a systematic review of Ai Chi's effects on pain, balance, function, and quality of life in adults.

Note: CEU is not applicable in AK, CO, HI, LA, NJ, NM, NV
Note: CEU is not pre-approved in the following states, but licensees may seek their own approval in AR, CA, DE, OH, TX
All other states: .18 CEU/1.75 CCU or contact hours