Zen Shiatsu Chicago Faculty: Dr. Frank Yurasek
Dr. Yurasek is a distinguished practitioner and educator in the field of Oriental Medicine and acupuncture, with a remarkable journey that has left a lasting impact on the world of holistic healthcare. His passion for healing, dedication to education, and diverse experiences have made him a respected figure in the field.
A pivotal moment in his journey occurred in 1984 when his wife experienced a remarkable recovery from Trigeminal Neuralgia through acupuncture. This profound experience ignited his passion for acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. He embarked on a transformative study and internship with Dr. Yin Lun Han, a highly respected Chinese doctor with over 40 years of experience in Traditional Chinese Medicine. His time with Dr. Han included training the “barefoot doctors,” demonstrating his commitment to sharing his knowledge and skills with the global healthcare community.
Before embarking on his professional journey, Dr. Yurasek’s academic journey led him to the Midwest College of Oriental Medicine, where he earned his master’s degree in Oriental Medicine. His commitment to advancing the field was evident early in his career when he began teaching at the same institution, a role he would hold for an impressive 16 years. In recognition of his expertise and contributions, he was appointed as a Professor of Tui Na in 1992, a testament to his mastery of this specialized form of Chinese therapeutic massage.
Among his other roles, from 1989 to 2004, he worked at the Northern Illinois Council of Alcohol and Substance Abuse, where he provided treatment to individuals struggling with addiction, alcoholism, violent behavior, and homeless women. During this period, he developed the “Taking Effective Control (TEC)” program, a 17-week program designed to help individuals regain control of their lives. His work in addiction treatment was carried out concurrently with the development of his private acupuncture practice.
Furthermore, in 1993, Dr. Yurasek sponsored a team of Traditional Chinese Medicine doctors from Liao Ning Provincial Hospital in Shen Yang, China, during their visit to Chicago. He also played a crucial role in establishing a free alternative clinic in the Austin neighborhood, demonstrating his commitment to expanding access to holistic healthcare.
Continuously advancing his efforts, he has delivered papers and presentations at national meetings and conventions, including the Society for Acupuncture Research, the Midwest Pain Society, and the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture. He has served on the Board of Directors of prestigious organizations such as the American Association of Body Therapies of Asia, the National Qi Gong Association, and the American Board of Eastern Medicine.
With a passion for teaching, Dr. Yurasek’s impact reaches far beyond the United States. He has taught as a Visiting Professor at the Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Science in Beijing, China, further contributing to the global dissemination of Traditional Chinese Medicine knowledge. Additionally, he is a guest lecturer for Certified Natural Health Practitioners (CNHP), sharing his expertise with a diverse audience.
In 2000, he assumed the role of publisher and editor of The Oriental Medicine Journal, a responsibility he held until 2009. During his tenure, he not only curated content but also contributed his own valuable insights to the publication, solidifying his reputation as an influential voice in the field.