Neijing Nature-Based Medicine:
2-Year Postgraduate Mentorship Training

With Dr. Edward Neal and Faculty

Program Overview

The Apricot Grove School offers a two-year postgraduate mentorship in Neijing Nature-Based Medicine, grounded in the original language and philosophy of the Huangdi Neijing. The training integrates classical Chinese medical texts with contemporary clinical understanding, emphasizing the natural patterns of the cosmos and living systems and how those principles apply to modern practice. It is designed for practitioners seeking depth, clarity, and lineage-based study.

Over four semesters, students return to the foundations of classical medicine, including principles most practitioners did not encounter in their formal training, and develop a way of seeing the body, illness, and clinical work that standard education tends to leave out.

The full program pairs an Online Lecture Series with three seven-day Clinical Practicums at Trout Lake Abbey in Washington (US), where study moves into the hands through diagnosis, touch, and practice. The Online Lecture Series may also be taken on its own.

Program Structure

The training is divided into four semesters over two years.

  • 42 two-week study blocks of in-depth postgraduate-level content
  • 42 Live online mentorship classes with Dr. Neal and faculty (also recorded)
  • In-depth interactions through weekly class discussion forums
  • Three 7-day in-person clinical trainings

Financial assistance is available.

Training Pathways

Choose from one of three options:

  • 1

    2-Year Full Program: comprehensive Postgraduate Mentorship Training Program (Online Lecture Series + 3 in-person Clinical Practicums)

  • 2

    Online Lecture Series: 2-year online mentorship lectures taken as a standalone option

  • 3
    The Wisdom of the Cosmos: a complete, standalone and inspired introduction to Neijing Nature-Based Medicine. It’s also the first semester of the full mentorship for those who wish to continue.

While designed for healthcare professionals, the program also welcomes Sinologists, researchers, and those who are interested in early Chinese philosophy and medicine.

NNBM 2-Year PostGraduate Mentorship Training

The Foundation of the Work

What does it mean to study and practice medicine from first principles?

Dr. Edward Neal explores some simple yet profound ideas behind what medicine can strive to be and the notion of operating from nature’s principles.

Enroll for this Autumn!

The Neijing Nature-Based Medicine 2-Year Postgraduate Mentorship is a comprehensive program grounded in the original language and philosophy of the Huangdi Neijing. Designed for dedicated practitioners seeking depth, clarity, and authentic lineage-based study.

NNBM 2-Year PostGraduate Mentorship Training

Curious About NNBM Courses?

Attend our free virtual Open House to learn more

Saturday, June 27, 2026
12:00pm-1:00pm (Pacific Time)

Dr. Edward Neal will host a free one-hour virtual open house for anyone considering Wisdom of the Cosmos or the 2-Year Postgraduate Mentorship in Neijing Nature-Based Medicine.

Dr. Neal will share some background on the programs and the medicine, and the hour is open for whatever questions you bring, whether about the curriculum, the philosophy, the time commitment, or whether this is the right next step for where you are in your practice or studies.

How the Program is Delivered

The 2-Year Postgraduate Mentorship Training is divided into 2 parts

Online Distance Learning

  • 2-year training held over 4 academic semesters with seasonal breaks
  • 44 one–hour recorded study topic lectures
  • 88 hours of live mentorship training with Dr. Neal and faculty
  • Time created for experiential learning and reflection
  • In-depth interactions with colleagues and teachers in class discussion forums
  • 100 PDA/CEU credits (NCCAOM® and California)

In-Person Clinical Training

  • Clinical skills are taught in three 7-day in-person clinical intensives taught in a small group setting
  • Combines theoretical and hands on techniques in a praxis of clinical learning
  • Taught in beautiful restorative settings in nature to allow practitioner rest and recuperation while learning
  • Healthy catered meals and private accommodations
  • 36 PDA/CEU (NCCAOM® and California) credits per Clinical Practicum (108 total)

NNBM 2-Year PostGraduate Mentorship Training

Program Objectives

At the completion of this training, students will:

  • Build a solid foundation of clinical practice based on the original principles and practices of Chinese medicine.
  • Develop a deep appreciation of the original vision of Chinese medicine.
  • Practice through a direct assessment of the natural landscape of the patient’s body and the principles of ecological restoration.
  • Begin a process of lifelong learning by following in the footsteps of traditional physician-scholars who studied directly from classical texts.
  • Significantly increase clinical assurance and abilities, patient results, and clinical success through a deep understanding of basic principles.
  • Develop confidence in treating clinical problems typically seen in primary care, using the techniques of Neijing Nature-Based Medicine.
  • Join a thriving collection of global learners and practitioners who are involved in an classical text revival.
  • Begin a path of becoming a respected teacher, leader, or researcher in your community, if desired.

NNBM 2-Year Graduate Mentorship Training

Where Knowledge Begins

Rooted in classical texts, shaped by nature, and designed for those who want to understand medicine more deeply.

Hear from experienced practitioners on what changes when you return to the foundations of classical medicine, and why so many find themselves here after years of searching.

Online training + mentorship (Live + Recorded)

Online Lecture Series

Our four semester, 2-year training program blends structured learning with seasonal breaks for reflection, experiential study, and direct mentorship.

The program lectures are delivered through our Canvas LMS in both live and recorded formats, offering flexibility for all students.

Each semester is divided into two-week study blocks, with each block focusing on a specific topic in Neijing Nature-Based Medicine. The study block begins with a one-hour pre-recorded lecture, allowing students to engage with the material at their convenience.

During the first week, students participate in online discussion forums and a live Sunday session, where they review course content, receive mentorship, and explore classical texts.

The second week emphasizes integration, encouraging students to explore topics more deeply through personal study, clinical application, or creative projects. This week also provides time for those with busy schedules to stay on track with the coursework. A second Sunday class at the end of the study block allows students to share insights and reflections as they deepen their understanding.

All sessions are recorded and available for students who need schedule flexibility or live in different time zones.

Website dashboard of the Canvas online learning platform with course cards and options for taking the course.

Autumn Semester 2026

NNBM 101

In this first semester, students are introduced to the Huangdi Neijing and Neijing Nature-Based Medicine (NNBM) through the history, language, and culture of ancient China, along with Classical Text Archaeology (CTA). It also explores Neijing space-time theory, the foundation of Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years.

Spring Semester 2027

NNBM 102

In this semester, we delve into the Neijing concepts of anatomy and physiology, including the twelve primary watersheds, body structure, tissue planes, internal organs, and fundamental physiological processes.

Autumn Semester 2027

NNBM 103

In this semester, we explore Huangdi Neijing and Neijing Nature-Based Medicine (NNBM), focusing on Shen, directional medicine (fangyi), disease causes, obstruction patterns, physical diagnosis, the Nine Ancient Needles, and traditional surgical techniques. Clinical applications are studied in depth.

Spring Semester 2028

NNBM 104

In this semester, we explore advanced topics in Huangdi Neijing and Neijing Nature-Based Medicine (NNBM), including medical interviews, clinical decision-making, doctor-patient dynamics, ethics, emotional diseases, guest-host illnesses, climate-related healthcare, and clinic management.

Introduction to Calligraphy / Classical Text Reading

NNBM 105

Beginning in the first semester, this optional course welcomes beginners and those seeking deeper classical text study. Students explore calligraphy fundamentals through the Ten Heavenly Stems and Twelve Earthly Branches while analyzing weekly Neijing text translations. Recorded sessions are available for those unable to attend live.

Review of Classical Anatomy

NNBM 106

Beginning in the second semester, this weekly optional class explores Neijing Classical Anatomy through text analysis, comparisons with modern anatomy, and clinical discussions. Recorded sessions are available for those unable to attend live.

Sample Lectures from the Program

Study Topic #12
Architecture of the Human Body (excerpt)

Study Topic #13
Rivers and Watersheds (excerpt)

Study Topic #14
Suwen Chapter 1 Text Reading (excerpt)

Study Topic #25
Seeing with the Artist’s Eye (excerpt)

In-Person Clinical Training

Clinical Practicums

Hands-on in-person clinical training retreats

The three 7-day clinical retreats bridge online learning with in-person clinical training in Neijing Nature-Based Medicine. Students explore the body’s ecological landscape and practice a diverse range of diagnostic and treatment techniques.

For the 2026/2028 program, in-person Clinical Practicums will be held at Trout Lake Abbey in Trout Lake, Washington, offering a serene mountain setting for study, regeneration, and connection with peers.

Learn More About In-Person Training →
Trout Lake Abbey main building

A Different Way to Learn

The School of Neijing Nature-Based Medicine takes its name from the ancient Greek σχολή (scholē), the root of the word “school,” which originally meant leisure and thoughtful rest. Learning is most meaningful when it is calm, restorative, and rooted in curiosity, so the program is built as a community environment where study becomes a source of renewal rather than exhaustion.

At its heart is a living tradition of mentorship: knowledge passed through shared experience, careful observation, and relationships that grow alongside a lifelong practice, rather than through lectures alone. Teachers and students walk the path together as colleagues.

Deep knowledge cannot be rushed. It unfolds through patience and return, circling the same foundational ideas from new angles, season after season, until understanding becomes embodied. Like the roots of a tree, what grows slowly grows strong. The pace here is a saunter, not a sprint, and stays restorative throughout.

Learn more about the philosophy behind our teaching →

Accreditation + Certification

Earn Continuing Education Credit

The School of Neijing Nature-Based Medicine: 2-Year Postgraduate Training Program is approved by:

  • NCCAOM® for approximately 130 hours of distance learning PDA’s and 108 hours of in-person training PDA’s.
  • California Acupuncture Board for approximately 130 credits of distance learning CEU’s. California requires that students attend the Live lectures in order to be approved.

Credits are awarded with eligibility based on full class participation and a minimum 75% score on weekly quizzes.

A Certificate of Completion is granted upon successful completion of either the Online Lecture Series or the Full Training Series.

NCCAOM
California Acupuncture Board

Note About Professional Licensure

While non-medical practitioners may take our classes, individuals must hold a valid medical license or be enrolled in a related training program that meets the requirements of their jurisdiction in order to practice professionally with acupuncture needles in a medical setting. Our postgraduate training programs do not confer these licenses.

Tuition & Support

Financial Assistance Available

This level of training is a meaningful commitment, and we want to make it as accessible as we can. Where we can help, we will. A range of assistance options is available:

  • Student and new practitioner discounts

  • Payment Plan option

  • Scholarship opportunities

  • Country parity discounts
  • Returning Participant discount

  • Auditing discounts

Tuition & Support

Financial Assistance Available

This level of training is a meaningful commitment, and we want to make it as accessible as we can. Where we can help, we will. A range of assistance options is available:

  • Student and new practitioner discounts

  • Payment Plan option

  • Scholarship opportunities

  • Country parity discounts
  • Returning Participant discount

  • Auditing discounts

Learn About Financial Options →

Testimonials

What Students Are Saying

Don’t take our word for it. Click an image to view.

Testimonial for Neijing Nature-Based Medicine
Testimonial for Neijing Nature-Based Medicine
Testimonial for Neijing Nature-Based Medicine

“Dr Neal's course has been an eye opener...”

I have been in practice for over 15 years as well as teaching Chinese medicine philosophy, theory and practice. Dr Neal's course has been an eye opener, as he talked about many areas I had wondered about, but mostly as he combined my interests in philosophy and classical Chinese and rooted Chinese medicine firmly in the classics. He then proceeded to apply it… Amazing!

D.W.

Acupuncturist & Teacher

Neijing Studies: Level I

“Dr. Neal opened my eyes to how nature works and how the universe patterns itself...”

Dr. Neal has a true gift for teaching. From the first 5 minutes listening to him, I could tell that I was about to have my whole world flipped upside down. His lectures are beautifully crafted as he takes unbelievably complex material and relays it in a way that a 6-year old could understand it. I began this class looking for ways to hone my treatment skills, but what I got out of it was so much more. Dr. Neal opened my eyes to how nature works and how the universe patterns itself and that is a gift for which I am forever in gratitude. He is absolutely inspiring. He is definitely an inspiration to me.

Joseph F.

Acupuncturist & Father

Neijing Studies: Level I

“Studying the Neijing with Dr. Neal has been like peeling back a curtain.”

Studying the Neijing with Dr. Neal has been like peeling back a curtain. His translation of the Neijing is remarkably straightforward, yet shines a new, modern light on what I’ve come to realize is a rich and still-relevant classic text. I came away from the course with a deeper understanding of the very basic principles of Chinese medicine and also its vast complexity. I think this richness and beauty of our medicine can too easily be undervalued or even dismissed altogether in any modern practice–no matter how successful—and what I once viewed as somewhat archaic and cryptic has instead become an inspiration and axis around which my work now revolves.

A.G.

Acupuncturist | Member – Oregon State Medical Board

Neijing Studies: Level I

“High quality training!”

High quality training! Ed is an exciting and passionate teacher. It has the ability to make complex information accessible in a fluid and clear manner. The training changed my conception of acupuncture and my vision of life. THANKS

Jason I.

Acupuncture Practitioner

Neijing Nature-Based Medicine: Foundations, Level I

“This class brought it all together for me.”

This class brought it all together for me. I got plenty of techniques and protocols in school, but there has been a gaping hole in my soul craving the “why?!” and this class cuts right to the heart of it all. Dr. Neal doesn’t shy away from the “why?!” question for a moment; instead he goes right into it. Everything is explained in a way that is rooted and makes sense, and somehow because of that it all becomes even more magical! The ancient Chinese were looking at the same body that we are looking at today! Why in the world would we not approach Chinese Medicine like they were looking at the same thing we are looking at? Where did we get so far off-track that most Chinese Medicine graduates can’t confidently answer basic questions like “What is qi?” and “What are the jingmai?” Dr. Neal is rocking the Chinese Medicine world right now by asking the “why?” question and I am so glad that he is. Chinese Medicine theory and practice has never made more sense than it does now and I can very confidently look patients and other practitioners (Western and Eastern) in the eye and tell them exactly what I’m doing and why it makes incredible sense. Thank you so much, Dr. Neal. You have completely changed my practice and opened up a whole world for me. I’ve never been more excited about practicing Chinese Medicine.

E.F.

Acupuncturist & Clinical Director

Neijing Studies: Level I

“The Neijing Nature-Based Medicine program has transformed my view of the human body”

The Neijing Nature-Based Medicine program has transformed my view of the human body all together and how truly revolutionary the practices of ancient Chinese medical physicians are for modern day society.

Stephanie H.

Acupuncturist

Neijing Nature-Based Medicine: Foundations, Level I

“...an opportunity to learn ancient medicine based from nature!”

I am so grateful to have found Neijing Nature-Based Medicine! It brings me so much joy to know that this medicine exists, that it is practiced and that there is an opportunity to learn ancient medicine based from nature! My heart feels tingly warm knowing that the earth has people (Dr. Edward Neal) that teach this knowledge and share. The teaching and learning style is especially cherished as it is long learning! It gives me time to soak it in, take it in and feel it for my own experiences. I also love the artists approach style, because it gives space for interpretation and perception.

Kanisha T.

Ancestral Skin Marker/Quyanaa Practitioner (Birth & Maturation)

Neijing Studies: Level I

“Dr. Neal’s course, and the teachings of the Neijing, have touched that deeper part of me...”

Dr. Neal’s course, and the teachings of the Neijing, have touched that deeper part of me that always felt like I was missing something when practicing modern and western medicine. After being introduced to this material, things started to make more sense regarding the Universe, our place in it, our uniqueness and specialness, and our health. Once I started applying it, changes happened for patients that had been “stuck” in poor health. With this course, the more I learn the more I want to learn. I have taken it multiple times and now feel like it will be something I am part of for the rest of my career and life. I am grateful for Dr. Neal, these teachings, and the amazing people I have met along the way.

Stephen K.

D.O., Clinical Director

Neijing Studies: Level I

“...life changing.”

The Neijing Nature Based Medicine course has not only deepened my practice and understanding of Chinese medicine but also been life changing. How I perceive and experience my practice, myself, my circumstances, my students, my creative work and process, nature, relationships, society, and the cosmos itself has forever shifted in ways that clarify my work, my decisions, and my sense of self in the ever-changing symphony of all that is.

Rae D.

Qigong teacher and artist

Neijing Studies: Level I

Our Work Together

Click an image to view the slideshow

Early Start Access

Start Before August 8th!

Register early to get a head start on your studies before the course begins

Students are granted access to the first 10 lectures from the previous year’s program to get a head start on their education. Past students have indicated that this provides a substantial advantage when the live course begins.

For the 2026/28 program, the Early Start Access begins July 1st if you register before then, or immediately if you register after.

Join a thriving community • Regrow your practice • Explore ancient texts • Develop new clinical skills • Integrate ancient and modern wisdom

Not sure where to start?

Begin with one semester. Decide later.

The Wisdom of the Cosmos is a complete, standalone introduction to Neijing Nature-Based Medicine — covering early Chinese cosmology, classical history, and the core principles that anchor the full 2-Year Postgraduate Mentorship. It draws directly from the first semester of that program, with all materials and live interaction included, and stands fully on its own.

If you choose to continue, your tuition carries forward.

Explore the Course →
A green and burgundy Northern Lights shines about a dark sky filled with stars over a set of dark shadowed mountains.

Get in touch!

Still Have Questions?

Please reach out to us! Either send an email to info@neijingstudies.com or send a message through the website.

Check out our extensive FAQ page to find answers to common questions.

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