Advanced Class Descriptions - 1
Accupressure - 24 hours
Prerequisite: None
Acupressure is the application of pressure to the body to enhance the flow of energy (also referred to as Chi or Ki) in the 12 main bi-lateral Meridians, according to the principles of Chinese medicine. These Meridians run throughout the body and give our body the “life force.”
Our bodies can have too much of this energy / Chi or not enough in particular areas that create an imbalance which eventually may progress to disease. Think of a river where debris has collected and dammed up the flow of water. There is too much water above the dam, and not enough water below the dam. If you put pressure on the blocked area, the river’s waters flow again, and balance is restored.
Acupressure is believed to be the "Mother of Acupuncture" in that it predates the use of needles to stimulate the body's energy flow. It has the same principles as Acupuncture, but the pressure is applied directly to the Acupoints of the body mainly by using the hands, fingers, thumbs or knuckles. Stimulation of the body's meridian system by touch is perhaps one of the oldest and most effective healing systems. Students will learn a full body 60 to 90-minute acupressure routine that will help relieve clients of stress, anxiety, pain, headaches, etc.
Advanced Techniques for Face & Scalp - 4 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage and basic anatomy.
The face and head are often overlooked in massage. We know that most people hold tension in their neck and shoulders. Many times, that tension is also being held in the face and head and can even be where it is originating from. In this class you will learn techniques from Swedish, Acupressure and Lymphatic massage. The use of hot towels in both therapeutic and spa techniques will also be taught. By relieving tension and reducing inflammation you can help to restore balance. Since many headaches can be relieved by these techniques, it is a wonderful addition to your skill set.
Upon completion of this class the student will have knowledge of the muscles and attachments in the face and head that tend to hold tension. Students will learn various styles to achieve stress release, reduced inflammation and headache relief.
ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY OF UPPER BODY - 28 hours
Prerequisite: 200 hour basic anatomy; or college human anatomy
This hand-on class offers an opportunity to explore more extensively the anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system.
Using the text “Trail Guide to the Body” we will become much more familiar with the skeletal structures and the muscles of the body in a way which helps us to understand how those structures normally move and interact so that we may bring that increased understanding to our practice.
We will be introduced to the principles of biomechanics (the study of mechanical principles and actions applied to living bodies) and kinesiology (the study which blends the knowledge of anatomy, physiology, physics and geometry and relates them to human movement).
Areas covered in Anatomy and Kinesiology I will include the pectoral girdle, the neck and spine, the bony thorax and the arms and hands.
ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY OF LOWER BODY - 28 hours
Prerequisite: 200 hour basic anatomy; or college human anatomy
This hand-on class offers an opportunity to explore more extensively the anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system.
Using the text “Trail Guide to the Body” we will become much more familiar with the skeletal structures and the muscles of the body in a way which helps us to understand how those structures normally move and interact so that we may bring that increased understanding to our practice.
We will be introduced to the principles of biomechanics (the study of mechanical principles and actions applied to living bodies) and kinesiology (the study which blends the knowledge of anatomy, physiology, physics and geometry and relates them to human movement).
Areas covered in Anatomy and Kinesiology II will include the abdominal area, the pelvic girdle and the legs and feet.
AROMATHERAPY/HERBS INTRODUCTION - 8 hours
Prerequisite: None
Students will receive a brief history of aromatherapy and its many uses. Also students will get to experience a variety of aromas and learn their properties for healing. You will learn about carrier oils and how to make blends with the various essential oils. There will be discussion of how to choose what aromas would be most beneficial for different needs of both the physical body and mental and emotional imbalances.
Students will also be introduced to medicinal herbs that are beneficial for skin, muscles and tendons. Demonstration and directions to proper infusion of herbs into oils will be reviewed and students will be given recipes for blends of oils and infused herbs.
AQUATIC INTEGRATION (AI) INTRODUCTION - 20 hours
Prerequisite: None
Aquatic Integration (AI) is a profound aquatic modality that services a wide scope of population. Developed from Watsu®, AI holds true to the principles of Shiatsu and T’ai Chi, as well as bridging main stream clinical practices of Myofascial Release, Neuro-Structural Bodywork and Somatic Experiencing.
AI utilizes body temperature water, gentle to moderate rocking and stretches to open meridians, and 0 gravity to provide a natural lift to the physical and emotional being, increasing the potential for renewal and physical repair.
This class will provide an exploration into the world of working in water for those who have not had that experience. For those who do work in water and on land, this class will provide clarity around techniques that will help with: increasing client's energy, understanding postural patterns, general relaxation, and stress reduction.
INTRODUCTION TO AYURVEDA - 8 hours
Prerequisite: None
The increase in interest in yoga and Ayurveda has made it one of the top spa trends.
Ayurveda is thought to be the most ancient complete form of medicine on the planet being at least 2,500 years old. Though generally less well known in the West, Ayurvedic treatments and those inspired by this ancient Indian science are fast becoming mainstream.
This class is designed to give students a practical grasp of the basic concepts behind Ayurvedic wisdom. Learn how to identify Ayurvedic body/mind types (Doshas) by using a variety of questionnaires, touch, observations, and discussion. Then use this information to customize any massage or spa treatment in terms of:
• Treatment selection
• Type of touch
• Type of oil/lotion
• Selection of aromas
• Type of music
• Color type of sheets or covers
• Kinds of teas and snacks to serve
Notes will be provided so students can concentrate on the learning experience and class participation.
ADVANCED CLASS DESCRIPTIONS - 2
Intro. to Panchakarma - 8 hours
Prerequisite: Intro. to Ayurveda
Students will have identified their unique Doshas in our previous class and learned how to determine the Doshas of their clients. Building on Doshas and Ayurvedic theory students will learn the benefits of Abhyanga, Shirodhara, and Swedna. We will go over the setup and materials needed for the three therapies. Then students will be able to practice the three therapies in class applying the steps and specific strokes for the different Doshas.
Abhyanga is Ayurvedic Massage of the entire body with Dosha-specific, warm, and herb-infused oil. Specific oils, herbs, and strokes are applied for each Dosha.
Shirodhara is a treatment that involves warm oil gently streaming onto the forehead, then being massaged into the scalp.
Swedna is an herbal steam tent.
BODY READING - 16 hours
Prerequisite: None
How will this course inspire the path of health in the student’s holistic practice?
Learning to read clients according to a modernized version of Yin/Yang, Chakras and 5 elements makes this highly appropriate for the Western or Eastern Body worker. Meridian location and energetics are applied to physical pains along various muscles, and body areas, typical MT scope of practice client complaints and concerns, and the associated behavioral/lifestyle contributions of anyone’s health challenge. This course will teach participants the fundamental skills to assessing our health-the foundation of all our dreams.
BOUNDARIES FOR SELFCARE - 12 hours
Prerequisite: None
This is a 12-hour course open to massage professionals, other healthcare providers, alternative practitioners, care givers, or those wishing to explore this topic. In this class, students will learn the art of creating and maintaining a self-care routine and boundaries to promote career fulfillment and longevity. Healthy empathy, self-care, healing relationship design, and boundaries maintenance strategies will be explored and discussed. Students will be provided ample supervised practice time to learn and incorporate their techniques into regular massage practice.
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT & ETHICS - 20 hours
Prerequisite: None
Success is a well thought out journey. In order to achieve it you must understand what you truly want, create a plan to obtain it, and see yourself having it. This class is about helping you do that.
We will cover the following topics:
Discovering your core values
- Visualizing your ideal future
- Creating a detailed plan for success
- Business start up
- Legal structures, zoning, insurance
- Marketing, marketing, and more marketing
- Overcoming fear and insecurity
- Ethics for health care providers
CHAIR MASSAGE - 8 hours
Learn a 15 and 20 minute routine that helps clients feel refreshed, relaxed, and rejuvenated to return to work or their busy lives. You will learn massage techniques that relieve stress and tight muscles in the neck and back of the body. Chair massage reduces the potential for repetitive motion injuries in the arms and hands. It is one of the fastest growing areas of bodywork nationwide, especially since it is more affordable for people and takes less time than a table massage. With increased awareness of the need for stress management in the workplace and the need to decrease repetitive motion injuries, it promises to grow even more.
Chair massage is also an excellent marketing tool to help grow your table massage business. It allows you to meet new potential customers and provide a an opportunity to build rapport with clients. During this 8-hour class, emphasis is placed on marketing the modality, as well as proper body mechanics while performing chair massage routines. The students will learn a 10, 15, and 20-minute routine and a manual will be given to support the material learned in class
CLINIC INTERNSHIP I - 25 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of the 200hr program
This hand-on course allows students an opportunity to have a clinical experience of working with clients in a safe environment on school premises. Instructors will review the basic intake and documentation process and will introduce students to a broader range of intake forms (two versions of health history short and long versions and two versions of SOAP notes, etc.). Students will have the opportunity to practice the intake procedure and will be instructed on how to use the information gathered to identify massage modalities to be used during a one hour or 90-minute massage which they will complete. This clinic will allow advanced students the opportunity to practice new skills and techniques being learned in their other 500-hour courses.
CLINIC INTERNSHIP II - 30 hours
Prerequisite: Anatomy, Pathology and Completion of Clinic Internship I
This hand-on class course allows students of our 500-hour program an opportunity to be introduced to medical based abbreviations and charting. In addition, students will be introduced to various symptoms, conditions and discuss which modalities will be safe and effective in treating clients. Instructors will review with students the intake process and documentation paperwork and will be available to answer questions that may transpire during the internship experience. This clinic will allow advanced students the opportunity to practice new skills and techniques learned recently in other program classes.
ADVANCED CLASS DESCRIPTIONS - 3
COMPREHENSIVE SIDE LYING MASSAGE - 8 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of 200 hour side lying intro, or previous massage experience
Side lying massage is not just for pregnancy. It is a great way to access areas of the body that can be more challenging to address in the prone or supine positions. It is also for people that are recovering from recent surgeries that limit them.You will learn a variety of stretches for both the upper and lower extremities of the body and rocking massage techniques. There will be a strong emphasis on proper body mechanics while applying the stretches and techniques. We will discuss correct draping and client comfort concerns.
Students will also learn "SLR" which is a release to aide in increased pelvic mobility, relieve muscle spasms and alleviate pain in the hips and back. The last portion of the day will be spent giving and receiving a complete massage. Students will be incorporating techniques learned into their regular massage routine.
INTRODUCTION TO CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY - 16 hours
Prerequisite: None
Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of the physiological body system called the cranial system. Comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. This system effects everything in our bodies from the physical to mental and emotional health.
Craniosacral Therapy seeks to find the deeper reasons for imbalance. Improper patterns root themselves in the subconscious. Wounds are brought up to process and release so the body does not have to hold or assimilate them anymore.
INTRODUCTION TO CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY 2 - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Intro. to Craniosacral Therapy Level 1
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to palpate the craniosacral rhythm, and use it to identify restrictions in the body. They will know what fascia is, where it is in the body and how to use light touch palpation to affect change within the fascial system. They will know the specific structure and function of the fascia of the craniosacral system. They will also learn the basic tenets of any Osteopathic modality of bodywork, it’s history and development and how to integrate these tenets into their practice. By the end of the course students will be capable of performing a one hour craniosacral session.
CUPPING THERAPY - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Massage therapist level anatomy & physiology
In this class, students will learn the art of cupping therapy, including its history, indications, cautions & contraindications, techniques, and tips. Students will be provided ample supervised practice time to learn and perfect their techniques. There will be a small quiz at the end to ensure that students understand benefits and cautions/contraindications
DEEP TISSUE LOWER BODY - 24 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage & basic anatomy
Deep Tissue Massage is a type of massage aimed at the deeper tissue structures of the muscles and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep Tissue Massage uses many of the same techniques as Swedish Massage, but the focus is very specific to muscle, tendon and fascia structures that need to be released due to acute or chronic holding patterns. In this class you will learn techniques to treat the following conditions: mid & low back pain, chest pain/tension, sciatic pain, hip pain, psoas tightness, leg length imbalances, leg pain & tension, Plantar Fasciitis, etc. We will review anatomy of the above structures and review Myofascial work and introduce trigger points. There will also be instruction on PNF stretching, passive stretches, and the use of proper body mechanics.
DEEP TISSUE UPPER BODY - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage & basic anatomy
Deep Tissue Massage is a type of massage aimed at the deeper tissue structures of the muscles and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep Tissue Massage uses many of the same techniques as Swedish Massage, but the focus is very specific to muscle, tendon and fascia structures that need to be released due to acute or chronic holding patterns. In this class you will learn techniques to treat the following conditions: neck pain & tension, whiplash, TMJ syndrome, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, migraines & headaches, shoulder pain, Rotator Cuff injuries, etc. We will review anatomy of the above structures and review Myofascial work and introduce trigger points. There will also be instruction in PNF stretching, passive stretches, and the use of proper body mechanics.
ADVANCED CLASS DESCRIPTIONS - 4
INTRODUCTION TO ESSENTIAL OILS - 8 hours
Prerequisite: At least 100 hours of education in C.H.I.’s 200-hour program
This is an 8-hour course open to massage professionals and students. In this class, students will learn about the production and application of various essential oils and their uses in massage therapy. Students will learn the healing qualities of several common essential oils, their uses and how to incorporate them into their massage routines. Students will be provided ample supervised practice time to experience and incorporate their techniques into regular massage practice.
HAWAIIAN LOMI LOMI - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage
Lomi Lomi, a form of ancient Hawaiian bodywork was originally done in sacred temples as a rite of passage. This transformational massage was performed by a Kahuna (master teacher or medicine man) for many hours or even days, until the receiver felt cleared and aligned on all levels – physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
The Lomi Lomi students will be learning in this workshop is a type of massage that encompasses breath and dance. The movement is an active meditation for the practitioner, opening up and freeing holding patterns within his/her body.
Training in this bodywork style can bring about balance, fluidity, and coordination. It teaches us to work from a place of presence. You will learn to use your breath with the movement and bodywork. When both giver and receiver are focused in the movement in a heartfelt way, as well as being attuned to their breath, this experience can accelerate change and create expansion on all levels.
ADVANCED LOMI LOMI - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Hawaiian Lomi Lomi
The advanced Lomi Lomi class will review everything from the beginning class and add in new strokes and stretches that are fun and effective. There will be focus on detail and correction of previously learned strokes and practicing the new strokes and stretches.
Lomi Lomi, a form of ancient Hawaiian Bodywork was originally done in sacred temples as a rite of passage. This transformational massage was performed by a Kahuna (master teacher or medicine man) for many hours or even days, until the receiver felt cleared and aligned on all levels – physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
The Lomi Lomi we will be learning in this workshop is a type of massage that encompasses breath and dance. The movement is an active meditation for the practitioner, opening up and freeing holding patterns within his/her body.
Training in this bodywork style can bring about balance, fluidity, and coordination. It teaches us to work from a place of presence. You will learn to use your breath with the movement and bodywork. When both giver and receiver are focused in the movement in a heartfelt way, as well as being attuned in their breath, this experience can accelerate change and create expansion on all levels.
HEALTH & HYGIENE - 8 hours
Prerequisite: 200-Hour Massage Practitioner course
Massage Therapists are required to have an understanding of health, disease, and pathogen transmission. Following the 200-hour introductory Massage Practitioner course, this course will cover a more in-depth look at health, hygiene, and pathogen transmission for the Massage Therapist when working with clients. Students will learn massage theory, massage history and relevant terms.
HOT STONE MASSAGE - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage
This course will introduce students to the use of stones in massage, including types and sizes of stones and their optimal use. The course will cover safety of working with stones, indications and contraindications to hot stone massage, as well as sanitation for cleaning hot stones. The students will learn how to use stones as tools to aid in their bodywork sessions. Upon completion of the class students will be prepared to safely give a relaxing, full-body, hot stone massage or integrate stones into their bodywork.
INJURY MANAGEMENT FOR THE BACK - 4 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage
In this hands-on class, we will review the anatomy of the back region to include the lumbar spine, hip muscles, and nerve innervations. Students will learn some common conditions of the back including lordosis, sciatica, herniated disc, strains, and spasms and the appropriate time to treat these conditions. Then students will learn a variety of Eastern and Western based bodywork techniques to release these conditions such as meridian tracing, neurolymphatic reflexes, origin and insertion techniques, muscle spindle cell techniques, stretches, etc.
ADVANCED CLASS DESCRIPTIONS - 5
INJURY MANAGEMENT FOR THE HIP - 4 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage
In this hands-on class we will review the anatomy of the hip region to include the lumbar spine, hip muscles, and nerve innervations. Students will learn the common conditions of the hip including dislocation, sciatica, strains, and spasms and the appropriate time to treat these conditions. Then students will learn a variety of Eastern and Western based bodywork techniques to release these conditions such as Meridian tracing, neurolymphatic reflexes, origin and insertion techniques, muscle spindle cell techniques, stretches, etc.
INJURY MANAGEMENT FOR THE NECK - 4 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage
In this hands-on class will review the anatomy of the neck region to include the cervical spine, neck muscles and nerve innervations. Students will learn the common injuries to the neck including whiplash, torticollis, strains, and spasms and the appropriate time to treat these injuries. Then students will learn a variety of Eastern and Western based bodywork techniques to release these conditions such as Meridian tracing, neuro-lymphatic reflexes, origin and insertion techniques, muscle spindle cell techniques, etc.
INJURY MANAGEMENT FOR THE SHOULDER - 4 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage
In this hands-on class will review the anatomy of the shoulder region to include the scapula, clavicle, humerus and bony thorax. Students will learn the common injuries to the shoulder including rotator cuff tear, frozen shoulder, bursitis, sprain/strains and the appropriate time to treat these injuries. Then students will learn a variety of eastern and western based bodywork techniques to release these conditions such as Meridian tracing, neuro-lymphatic reflexes, origin and insertion techniques, muscle spindle cell techniques, etc. Students will learn massage history, massage theory and terminology as it relates to this modality.
MYOFASCIAL MASSAGE / MYOFASCIAL RELEASE INTRO. - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Basic Massage Training
This two-day workshop instructs basic principles and practices of MFR therapy, which is based on the understanding that fascial restriction is an underlying component of all physical pain. The participants will have a understanding of the function of fascia and its role in chronic pain. The focus is on identification of fascial restriction through visual assessment and palpitation.
Participants are instructed in basic foundational MFR therapeutic techniques, including the awareness of subtle changes in fascial tissue during treatment. There will be both a lecture and hands-on portions. The hands-on will focus on instructing and practicing proper technique and body mechanics.
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE LOWER BODY - 24 hours
Prerequisite: Myofascial Release Intro. or Permission from Instructor
This class expands information taught in the Introduction to Myofascial Release class, with a focus on assessment and treatment techniques specific to the low back and pelvis.
This class includes both lecture and lab portions. Lectures are designed to raise questions, create dialog, and deepen the understanding of how the fascial tissue performs and responds to a variety of conditions and injuries, and proper client assessment. The lab portion includes hands-on instructing and practice of proper MFR techniques and on the importance of proper body mechanics for the massage practitioner.
Students will learn advanced techniques for treating the lower spine, assessing and treating pelvic imbalances, and torsion. Class discussion will focus on common lower body symptoms including sciatica, low back pain, and plantar fasciitis. This class will give students an opportunity to practice identifying fascial restrictions through both palpation techniques and visual cues.
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE UPPER BODY - 20 hours
Prerequisite: Basic Massage Training
This class expands on information taught in the Introduction to Myofascial Release class, with a focus on assessment and treatment techniques specific to the upper body.
Focus: techniques for treating the shoulder girdle, thoracic spine, cervical spine, and jaw and common upper body symptoms.
Lectures and labs deepen the understanding of how fascial tissue responds to conditions & injuries. Lectures cover client assessment and skills needed to integrate MFR techniques into practice. Labs include hands-on practice of MFR techniques including discussion of proper body mechanics for the practitioner.
Students will practice identifying fascial restrictions through both palpation techniques and visual cues.
ADVANCED CLASS DESCRIPTIONS - 6
ADV. PATHOLOGY & CONTRAINDICATIONS - 20 Hours
Prerequisite: 200-Hour Massage Practitioner Course & Anatomy & Physiology Lower Extremities
Massage Therapists are responsible for recognizing health and illness when working with clients, as well as when massage is indicated or contraindicated. Understanding pathophysiology is a lifelong process. This course gives the Massage Therapist a greater understanding of health, disease, and disability beyond the 200-hour Practitioner program for working with the general population. Students will learn massage theory, massage history and relevant terms.
POLARITY THERAPY - 12 hours
Prerequisite: None
Polarity Therapy incorporates a systemic knowledge of energy mapping based on the five natural elements (Ether, Air, Fire, Water, and Earth) and the 7 primary energy centers or Chakras. Polarity is based on orthodox anatomy and physiology as well the energy anatomy of humans.
Polarity Therapy involves the skillful application of bodywork techniques to promote harmonious life functions. With intuitive sensitivity, the practitioner’s hands locate and help to free blocked energy caused by distress on any level. With gentle yet penetrating therapeutic touch, free-flowing balanced energy movement is restored as the body’s natural self-healing powers are stimulated. Physical manipulations, gentle stretching, light reflex contacts and hand movements off the body comprise much of the Polarity art form. In creative combination with other therapeutic styles, (e.g. visualizations, breathing variations, awareness counseling, and other forms of bodywork), balance in the system is achieved.
PREGNANCY AND INFANT MASSAGE - 20 hours
PREGNANCY MASSAGE - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage
Prenatal massage can help alleviate some of the stresses and discomforts that women experience during pregnancy. This class is designed to show students how to meet the special needs of pregnant clients. There are pregnancy related conditions that require caution or are a contraindication for massage. These cautions as well as the many benefits of prenatal massage will be discussed. You will learn proper positioning for the comfort of the client as her body changes throughout pregnancy. What is occurring in a woman’s body during each trimester of pregnancy and the baby’s development during these times will be covered with a session dedicated to each trimester. Students will then learn and apply bodywork specific to each of the trimesters and labor. (For the Pregnancy and Infant course: The final class session will focus on infant massage).
The supplies needed for class are linens, oil, and a notebook for lecture. Starting on the 2nd night of class students will need a bath towel and a few pillows also.
REFLEXOLOGY - 20 hours
Prerequisite: None
In this course we will cover the feet and hands. You will learn locations of the reflex points and the techniques used for applying reflexology. This incredible healing art produces relaxation throughout the body as we work the corresponding reflex points. Benefits include stress reduction, increased circulation, and relaxation.
* Please bring a towel, fitted sheet, lotion, pillow, blanket, and a tub big enough to soak your feet in.
REFLEXOLOGY & AURICULOTHERAPY - 24 hrs
Prerequisite: None
In this course we will cover the feet, hands and the ears. You will learn locations of the reflex points and the techniques used for applying reflexology. The class is as above, with the ear points and techniques as well.
ADVANCED CLASS DESCRIPTIONS - 7
REIKI - LEVEL 1 - 8 hrs
Prerequisite: None
WHAT IS REIKI? Reiki is a vibrational healing practice that promotes systemic balance. It is light touch that can be given to a clothed recipient as a treatment on its own or integrated into a massage or other treatment. It is also a self-care practice.
WHAT ARE THE COMMONLY REPORTED BENEFITS?
reduced anxiety, reduced depression, improved sleep, improved digestion and a greater self-awareness. Clients most frequently report positive changes in relaxation, pain management, and reduced stress. Those practicing self-care also report these benefits.
- WHAT WILL I LEARN IN REIKI CLASS?
Introduction and discussion about what Reiki is.
History of Reiki.
• Attunements: Opening up to the Reiki energy students receive their attunement from the teacher.
• Hands on experience. You will have the opportunity to both give and receive a treatment. * Sharing and questions will be encouraged throughout the class. • You will receive a certificate for First-Degree Reiki Practitioner.
REIKI - LEVEL 2 - 8 hours
Prerequisite: Reiki - Level 1
Reiki, being a vibrational healing practice has many layers. In Reiki 2 we will practice connecting to the mental and emotional bodies and wellbeing of our clients. Using the Reiki symbols as tools and a second attunement, our focus will be on facilitating somatic emotional release and the opportunity for our client to release holding patterns in the body. We are always looking to bring the client into homeostasis and the ability for the body to self correct.
SHIATSU - INTEGRATED - 24 hours
Prerequisite: None
Shiatsu translates as "finger pressure." It is a traditional Japanese style of bodywork. This course will introduce students to 14 meridians, or energy (chi) pathways in the body. Students will learn alarm points (Mu and Shu) for each meridian and a full Shiatsu sequence designed for a 1-hour session. Points for common ailments and specific Shiatsu techniques are included in the routine. Integrating these techniques and points into a Swedish Massage will be the final aspect of the class. This is practiced as tabletop Shiatsu, not on the floor.
SPORTS MASSAGE - 20 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage & basic anatomy, and Myofascial Massage Intro.
This hand-on class offers an introduction to the fundamental approach to working with athletic and active people ranging from the “weekend warrior” to the professional athlete.
Sports Massage techniques are used with clients ranging from serious athletes to the moderately active for injury prevention, performance enhancement, and faster recovery. This course will cover the main applications of sports massage (pre-event massage, post-event massage, maintenance, and rehabilitative), assessment of clients (verbal, visual & palpation), range-of-motion, and P.N.F. stretches. We will review common sports injuries and discuss the psychology of working with athletes and injuries. Students will learn how to use these tools effectively to benefit clients of all activity levels.
Techniques reviewed: applications of various techniques from Western massage (i.e. tapotement, vibration, petrissage, etc.), Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial Massage, Cryotherapy (heat & cold), PNF and stretching.
STRETCH & RELEASE THERAPY ("SRT") - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Swedish Massage, Currently enrolled in 200 hour program with anatomy requirement fulfilled
You are invited to spend two full days learning a very simple yet powerfully effective tool to get the maximum results with your clients. Stretch & Release Therapy (SRT) will change your view of injury and healing rates, the way you work, and your results forever!
The techniques you will learn work quickly to affect majority of soft tissue dysfunction. The training is hands-on and you will learn to adapt the concepts and principles to your current practice and maximize your effectiveness.
SRT works on an array of chronic conditions, such as back and neck pain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, whiplash injuries, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, sciatica, … to name a few. It also is very beneficial for athletes and prevention of injuries.
Included in the training are several self-help hand tune-ups to save your own hands and arms!
TOOLS FOR LONGEVITY - 8 hours
Prerequisite: None
This class is designed to give you tools for being physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually in balance in your massage practice. It is important to stay healthy in all of these aspects if we are going to not only be successful but joyful in our work. The client can tell the difference!
We will spend the day:
1. Discussing intention and quality of touch.
2. How to set boundaries.
3. Being present in your work.
4. How to shift when you are feeling tired or bored in your massage work.
5. Grounding and clearing tools and strategies.
6. Review of body mechanics and a massage exchange with instructor feedback.
7. Self care, we will have a morning meditation as well as a Qigong class before lunch.
This is a great day to take care of yourself, gain some new tools to use in your work, and to make a commitment to be the best therapist you can be while having lots of fun along the way. This is a day to replenish your practice and yourself!
ADVANCED CLASS DESCRIPTIONS - 8
TOUCH FOR HEALTH - LEVEL 1 - 16 hours
Prerequisite: None
In TFH we use muscle testing as a method of biofeedback to identify imbalances in the body’s energy system. Utilizing a holistic approach, we re-balance the body’s energies and activate the body’s intrinsic healing process so that the body can better heal itself.
You will learn the art of muscle testing and the basic procedure to balance the body’s muscles and acupuncture meridians as presented in Dr. John Thie’s book, Touch for Health. Learn skills to increase your energy level, reduce stress and pain, increase mental clarity, and enhance immune system function. The basic balancing system includes how to test and correct 14 muscles/meridians, including the spinal reflexes, neurolymphatic reflexes, neurovascular points, and meridians. You will also learn how to assess nutritional support for the muscles and how to effectively reduce emotional stress and pain by touch.
Touch for Health can be used as a stand-alone method or it can be used with other healing modalities such as massage, chiropractic care, acupuncture, craniosacral, psycho-emotional counseling, etc. Professionals using Touch for Health may be able to find and unlock their patient’s “stuck” conditions, often enabling their clients to become more self-maintaining.
TOUCH FOR HEALTH - LEVEL 2 - 16 hours
Prerequisite: Touch for Health Level 1
In Touch for Health level 2, students learn 14 more muscles to test to balance the system. We review the 14 main Chinese Meridians from level 1, discuss the Chinese Clock by learning the peak energy cycle of these Meridians. We assess energy patterns in the 24-hour cycles & Five Element (seasonal) cycles and find a single key-point to balance the energy system working with charts. We continue with learning food testing and discuss foods that are energizing and draining to our system. Also, acupressure holding points and a variety of other balancing techniques are covered in this level.
TRIGGER POINT THERAPY (LowerTorso/Pelvis; Cervical/TJM; AND Shoulder/Upper Torso) - Each course 16
Prerequisite: Completion of 200 hour program or previous massage experience
Do you want to be a “Rock Star” Deep Tissue Therapist? Well this is the class for you!
Do you want to learn how to break up the vicious cycle of sciatica, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, low back pain, headaches, and TMJ?
This class offers you a modality to address soft tissue dysfunctions in the body from stress, injury, repetitive use / overuse, and restore hyper-contracted shortened muscles into a healthy restored state. You will learn how to detect what and where a Trigger Point is and disperse them using a combination of specific techniques. The foundation of this work is releasing the fascia, stimulating the proprioceptors in the origin, insertion and belly of the muscles with a specific intention. These deep tissue techniques will always be followed by “making nice” (lymph drainage) to the tissue addressed, passive stretches, traction, PIR, CTR and follow up care for your clients to take home after treatment.
ZEN THAI TOUCH - 20 hours
Prerequisite: None
Learn Seymour’s unique approach to Asian Bodywork that combines palm, thumb, elbows, knees, feet, and hand movement techniques derived from Japanese, Chinese and Thai methods. In contrast to the typical faster massage style of these traditional forms the Zen-Touch™ approach created by Seymour pays attention to energy flow while holding and listening to the Sen (Thai) / Meridian (Chinese & Japanese) lines. This deeply nourishing and sensitive approach allows the client’s energy flow to do the healing in contrast to the manipulation approach of the traditional Thai, Shiatsu and Tui-Na styles. Clients report how they can receive the stretches and pressure with complete comfort in comparison to the often intrusive traditional Thai and Shiatsu methods.
Assessment, recommendations, and therapy based on Chakras, Yin/Yang, and 5 Elements comparing Ayurveda and Chinese Medicine is also included in the class. This modality is practiced on the floor, on soft mats.
ZEN-TOUCH™ SHIATSU - 16 Hours
Prerequisite: None
Zen-Touch™ Shiatsu, a form of energy meridian acupressure, is both an effective form of health assessment and therapy as well a nurturing form of body & energy work that mutually enhances the health of both the receiver and practitioner. Yes, Zen-Touch™ Shiatsu is equally beneficial for both the practitioner and client. The theoretical background is founded on balancing or integrating our health condition with the forces of nature described in Eastern philosophy as Yin/Yang and the 5 Movements or Elements. People most frequently report enhanced vitality, pain relief, and heightened health awareness accompanied by a sense of freedom and peacefulness.
ZT practitioners draw from a wide range of improvised techniques that make each session a uniquely personalized experience. When appropriate, a session can resemble a yoga- like dance that is choreographed by the practitioner to initiate increased range of movement for body mind spirit. At the opposite extreme a session may look very simple and passive when the practitioner finds it necessary to hold points for extended periods of time. This modality is practiced on the floor, on soft mats.
Now enrolling for January 2025
Daytime class begins Jan. 13th &
Evening class begins Jan. 7th