The Diamond-Dart Meridian Sequence (DDMS) is a system of movements and affirmations developed by John Diamond M.D. Its main purpose is to raise Life Energy (Chi) through tonifying each of the acupuncture meridians (energy pathways through the body). It is comprised of twelve physical postures integrated into a dance-like sequence that can be used as an active meditation. Over time the DDMS will improve coordination, breathing, flexibility and brain functioning.
The sequence was developed by holistic medical pioneer John Diamond, M.D. From his wide interests and extensive research Diamond discovered correlations between the acupuncture meridian system and the emotions which he wrote about in his bestselling book Life Energy: Using the Meridians to Unlock the Power of your Emotions (1985). Over the years he has discovered over 200 points on the meridians that relate to different emotional attributes, both positive and negative. The whole system is called the Acupuncture Emotional System.
Each of the individual postures in the Diamond-Dart Meridian Sequence are taken from the work of Professor Raymond Dart, (1893-1988) a world famous anthropologist and medical doctor. He devised them to help his son overcome motor co-ordination problems and spacitisities that were caused by a premature birth.
Using twelve of Dart’s original procedures, Diamond found that each related to an acupuncture meridian, and placed them in a sequence that correlated to the developmental stages of the child from birth to upright posture. Although each posture is beneficial when performed separately, it is by moving through the complete sequence that the greatest benefits accrue. The efficacy of this sequence is further enhanced by saying the particular affirmation for each meridian that Dr. Diamond devised, resulting in a powerful healing modality that can be performed in as little as five minutes a day.
We’re proud to announce that our work with people with disabilities has been featured in Wednesday’s issue of the Poughkeepsie Journal. This wonderful article, by Sarah Bradshaw, focuses on our student Niklas Watkins and his part in the recent concert of our Singing Songbirds chorus for people with disabilities.
Niklas Watkins, 13, of LaGrange, performs with Singing Songbirds, a chorus for people with disabilities, during a concert Dec. 7 at LaGrange Middle School. / Karl Rabe/Poughkeepsie Journal
The article can be found here, and the associated video is here.
Singing Songbirds, a chorus for people with disabilities, hold a concert Wednesday, December, 7, 2011, at LaGrange Middle School. / Karl Rabe
Want to see more of Niklas singing? Then click here to his very own page on our website.
Want to find out more about our unique music programs for people with disabilities, including the Singing Songbirds? Then click here.
To qualify: Anyone with disabilities who loves to sing with others. No previous musical experience or skills necessary. Ability to read music NOT a requirement. Songs are taught by ear, from recordings, and word or music sheets – your choice.
Age: 13 and up
When: Wednesdays 7:00-8:00pm.
Jan 11, 18, 25 Feb 1, 8, 15, 29, Mar 7, 14, 21
Where: Institute for Music and Health, Verbank, NY.
Cost: $120 for entire 10-session season
Caregivers/family members invited to join in for free!
Want to hear the Songbirds sing their themesong “Take Me Out to the Songbirds”?? It’s specially composed (well, the words, that is – you’ll recognize the melody!)
In our recent concert, Songbird’s member Victoria Bechtler sang a solo version of “Over the Rainbow.” Victoria has never had singing lessons and this was the first time she has performed solo in public. It wa a magnificent, heartfelt performance.
Our unique Interactive Concert given by our students with disabilities for people with disabiliies at New Horizons in Pleasant Valley on May 17th drew a large and appreciative crowd. Our heartfelt thanks goes out everyone involved: all fourteen of the performers, the staff at New Horizons, who did so much to help and generously allow use of their wonderful resources, and to our staff and assistants. To you all a really big thank you. We hope to do this again real soon!
An appreciative parent emailed us:
“I just wanted to thank you for a delightful evening. There was a great turnout and the audience participation was heartwarming. So many smiling faces; singing and clapping along to familiar songs. Some were even dancing!
The program was so well organized and provided a venue for the many “STARS” to shine! You definitely know the population well: you started and ended right on time and the movement from one talent to the next was managed brilliantly!
This was an opportunity for my daughter and her housemates to share in a fun activity together and create memories. We loved sharing it with them as well .
I have such respect and gratitude for your extraordinary talent and ENORMOUS hearts!!!”
- Gail Saderholm
One of the “STARS” Gail writes about is Michael Brenner, a young adult with disabilities. Here he is at the concert giving a soulful rendition of “Yesterday.”
IMH Director Peter Muir was appeared on the Manifesting Wellness Internet Radio Show on April 13, 2011, in an extended interview with the shows host, Bente Hansen. Please enjoy the excerpts below, in which Dr. Muir discusses various aspects of the healing power of music.
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