Prerequisite: none
Requirements: Bring a friendly dog and blanket.

Whether your pet is suffering from arthritis, recovering from surgery, or experiencing anxiety, this class will teach you techniques to help quiet your pet’s problems.

You will thoroughly learn dog anatomy and how it relates and differs from the human body. A basic complete massage sequence will be taught with special emphasis on the hips. Behavioral control, acupressure points, and common trigger points will be covered.

Your assessment skills will be greatly enhanced and your pet will be thoroughly grateful. Students must bring a dog to class with them, plus a towel or mat to work on. If you don’t have a dog, ask Student Records for the instructor’s contact information to make other arrangements. A small stool is helpful if working with a large dog on the floor.

Prerequisite: 4 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring two sheets, pillowcase, yoga mat and small blanket.

The technique of connecting mind and body through massage allows us to integrate various modalities with ease and continuity. We will approach the body’s own innate capacity to heal through Esalen Inspired massage. Using listening techniques of breath and posture, we will begin to release the mind and encounter our own awareness. This provides both practitioner and client the conscious space to magnify intuition. Our bodywork techniques will emphasize slow, long connecting strokes. With different rhythms and movements, we will learn to work with the anatomy of the body as a whole, and not in segments.

Prerequisite: 4 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring two sheets and wear non-restrictive clothing allowing full range of movement.

Sciatic nerve dysfunction affects nearly 40 percent of adults at some point during their lifetime. The condition can cause extreme pain and numbness. Traditional medical treatment combined with complementary therapies, such as specialized massage, can attain amazing results.

This course encompasses a variety of techniques used in treating debilitating pain of the lower extremities. These methods will be demonstrated in order for participants to see how they can be substituted as non-surgical alternatives. You will not only be able to immediately experience the results for yourself but will also be able to utilize these techniques with clients.

Prerequisite: 12 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring two sheets, one blanket or beach towel, one small bath towel for chest cover or wear sports bra, one pillow with pillowcase.

A full massage should include more than focusing primarily on the back. Working with the anterior of the torso helps balance the entire body.

The therapeutic value and significance of working with the chest and shoulder area are important in addressing posture, breathing, heart function, clear thinking, headaches, self-awareness, confidence and more. The techniques included in this class also improve the upper and middle back condition.

In this class, we work in the supine and side lying position. Students will gain confidence in their ability to help with clients’ specific complaints, as well as providing relaxing massage. Proper draping techniques are used throughout the session.

Prerequisite: 4 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring two sheets and bath towel.

Beyond objective analysis, we each have an inner perception that can guide and even protect us. While we all have natural instincts, many of us do not utilize this tool to steer daily decisions let alone our massage practice. Instead of separating your analytical mind from your intuition when working on clients, learn how to connect the two resources as one.

This class provides a deep dive into mindfulness to help develop your intuition. Allow yourself to tune-in to clients by feeling and moving through their anatomy while listening internally. We will utilize meditation and music as tools to deepen your sense of connection with clients by heightening your awareness. A discussion on energy and how to feel it, will emphasize the importance of remaining rooted and grounded inside. You will learn how to tap into your intuition, enabling you to give your clients the gift of addressing their specific needs.

Prerequisite: 12 hands-on classes, Fascia Therapy – An Introduction, or previous training
Requirements: Bring two sheets, wear non-restrictive clothing allowing full range of movement that can expose shoulders, arms, and legs.

In this course, basic concepts explored in Intro to Fascia Therapy will be reviewed. Using basic skills, we will evaluate body structure and function, and begin to identify and treat fascial restrictions. There are a multitude of Fascial therapies which all work very well but are administered with very different approaches.

We will explore the many different styles and techniques to address fascial restriction and help our clients to feel better. Discussions will include how to find your own personal style and approach when treating clients. Fascia is a resilient connective tissue which spreads throughout the body in a three-dimensional web from head to toe. Scarring, posture, inflammatory processes and trauma can create circumstances in which fascial tissue can place up to 2,000 pounds of pressure on pain sensitive structures. Fascial Therapies have been used to treat a wide range of conditions including scar tissue, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel, infertility, myofascial pain syndrome and so many more.

Prerequisite: none
Requirements: Bring sheets, blanket, hand towel, and a pillow.

Our hands are constantly at work and taken for granted. They are our reliable tools, acting as daily workhorses and powerful instruments of healing. This class explores some of the proper treatment  for the care of our hands for both your clients and yourselves. We will include some basic anatomy, pathology and physiology related to the hand and arm. In addition, some therapeutic massage techniques and assessments will be presented with recommendations to try at home.

Students will also learn techniques for the upper arm and shoulders that can benefit the hands. There will be self-help applications, stretches, exercises, and tips to prevent strain and injury. It’s essential for therapists to learn to preserve hand function and health. This class provides those skills as well as how to benefit others.

Hands-On Hands Handout

Prerequisite: none
Requirements: Bring a sheet, doll or stuffed animal large enough to practice techniques. Only unscented oil is allowed with babies. If desired, a mat can be used to work on the floor. Call the office to have a parent bring their baby to school for the last 90 minutes of class.

Students are taught how infant massage can enhance early development and well-being of babies. Techniques will be included for infants up to one year old. Students will learn how to use various forms of sensory stimulation to improve cognition abilities of newborns and infants. Practical applications for dealing with issues such as colic and congestion will also be discussed.

The first three hours of class will include lecture, demonstration, and practical application using dolls. For the last hour, students are asked to have a friend or family member bring a baby to class. If a student wants to work with their own baby, another care-giver will need to bring the infant to class. Students will then teach the parent how to perform infant massage by demonstrating on their doll as the parent follows along.

Prerequisite: 4 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring two sheets and one pillowcase.

We will compare and contrast the various reasons causing low back pain.  Surprisingly, much of our low back pain does not begin at the back.  We will offer ways to evaluate client’s condition and various treatment options available to therapists of any skill level. 

Prerequisite: 12 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Wear non-restrictive clothing allowing full range of movement.

Millions of people experience some sort of headache daily. This class will teach students the physiology of different types of headaches. Various methods of assessment will be presented to assist a therapist in determining the source of headache pain. Techniques to address headaches will include trigger point pressure, stretching, and friction.

Prerequisite: none

Polarity therapy is an energy balancing system which employs the currents of life force (energy). It was developed by Dr. Randolf Stone D.O., D.C., N.P. and drawn from Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. The life force is the circulating energy field that surrounds and penetrates the body and all living things.

This work combines gentle, penetrating body touch with other healthful practices to balance the energies of the body, mind, and spirit. It is based on a premise that disease is created when there is a physical, mental or spiritual block to the free flow of energy in the body.

This block causes stress and the energy moves around instead of through the block. Polarity Therapy allows energy to re-enter that blocked area so that the body naturally realigns to its rhythmic flow of health. The life force is directed along natural pathways so that blocks are opened and healing and relaxation begin.

Polarity recharges the life force of a person. When this balance is present, the nerves relax. Nerves control organs and muscles. It works on the whole body. Once the body relaxes, the emotions start releasing. Energy does not distinguish between physical and emotional pain, both of which are expressions of blocked energy.

Polarity is the study, application, and utilization of techniques to balance the primary and secondary energies of humans. You will learn to feel, understand and direct energy patterns in the body. Specific dietary, exercise and meditation practices will be discussed to help hold the healing balance in place. Also discussed, will be the practitioner’s presence as a vital aspect of this work.

Prerequisite: 12 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring two sheets, hand towel, three bed pillows in cases (preferably 1 standard and 2 king size), and a beach towel. 

This class teaches the basics of massage during pregnancy and postpartum. This is appropriate for anyone who may have a pregnant client present themselves during your massage career. The lecture portion of class includes the anatomy of pregnancy, development of the fetus, common symptoms and discomforts during the 3 trimesters of pregnancy, and safety considerations during pregnancy and postpartum. The hands-on practice incorporates step-by-step positioning, bolstering, draping and massage techniques for pregnant and postpartum women.

Prerequisite: none

Envision a universe made of pure energy: energy that can be directed and redirected around and through the body to heal and restore. The philosophies behind Reiki hold that we live in exactly such a state. Reiki is the art of channeling this universal energy. One of the most popular and versatile forms of energy work, Reiki is easy to learn but difficult to master.

First Degree Reiki is the basic introduction. It includes “tunings,” energy activating sessions which enable the student to channel Reiki energy to others. The class also covers simple lessons in physiology, a demonstration of a complete whole-body treatment, and a detailed description of hand positions to use on oneself and others. There is considerable hands-on practice in giving and receiving Reiki at this level.

Prerequisite: Reiki I & II

Reiki III furthers the work of levels I & II, with a strong emphasis on increasing the connection to powerful flows from the upper levels of the HEF (human energy field). Modern physics show us that matter and energy are interchangeable; this course addresses how to bring energy into matter. Attunements and techniques cause energy to run from the divine field of the HEF to the physical field.

We will learn these symbols and techniques: Kundalini/chakras symbol, Inner Fire symbol & self-energizer breathwork, Sui Ching purification, Microcosmic Orbit, Hu Yin & Kidney Breathwork, the Daikomyo symbol and its application in a total body session for self or client.

Prerequisite: 12 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: For Saturday you will need 4 large bath towels, 10 hand towels, 1 set of sheets (including pillowcase). For Sunday you will need 4 large bath towels, 16 hand towels, 2 sets of sheets (including pillowcases).

Turn any massage room into a full-service treatment space with dry room treatment protocols. You will learn unforgettable custom spa experiences that you can offer your clients. By the end of this course, you will be able to effectively perform a full-body exfoliation, mud wrap, and finishing treatment.

You will be taught to increase your revenue by designing your own special add-on services with spa Pedi or scalp treatments. You can even customize treatments to fit your style and clientele by substituting varying products.

Prerequisite: 4 hands-on classes or previous training. This class is conducted entirely on the floor. Students with knee injuries or unable to spend extended periods of time kneeling or sitting on the floor should consider avoiding this class
Requirements: Bring a mat or thick quilt (minimum total thickness of 2″), a blanket, pillow, notebook and pen.  Wear non-restrictive clothing allowing full range of movement.

Thai Massage is a  healing system built on a 2,500 year tradition that includes the ancient art of Yoga, bodywork, Buddhist spiritual practices, and  Ayurvedic Medicine.  This extraordinary bodywork style uses assisted yoga stretches, gentle rocking, deep compression, acupressure, and energy work.  Done on the floor using a mat or pad and over loose-fitting clothes, students learn to press and move in a coopertive moving meditation.  While decreasing pain and stress, Thai Massage promotes healing, relaxation, and improved range of motion.  Students can expect to gain insight into their daily practice using these techniques and the ancient wisdom behind them.

Topics covered in Thai Massage I are:

• Puja, Prayer & Spiritual practices
• Basic 5 Element Theory
• Basic Meridian Theory
• Dosha types based on Ayurveda
• Sen Lines
• Posture & Body Mechanics

Prerequisite: none
Required: Wear non-restrictive clothing allowing full range of movement

This class introduces Static Stretching to students as an effective technique to help with client mobility and flexibility. When performing Static Stretching a muscle group is moved as far as it can without feeling pain and then holding that position for 20-40 seconds. This technique is even more effective when combined with massage therapy. You will learn about joints, range of motion, and end feel, as well as how to practice safe stretching techniques.

Prerequisite: 12 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring two sheets and wear non-restrictive clothing allowing full range of movement.

Myofascial trigger points are small, hyperirritable nodules found in a taut band of muscle where there is decreased circulation and a buildup of metabolic waste products.

Trigger points can produce pain both locally and to specific referral areas. They can be caused by structural imbalances, overuse, injury or stress leading to many pain syndromes such as headaches, chronic neck pain or thoracic outlet syndrome.

This course will cover the anatomy and physiology of trigger points, also the role they play in acute and chronic pain syndromes. Students will learn methods and protocols to evaluate and deactivate trigger points throughout the body.

Prerequisite: none

The chakras are the seven centers of energy in the astral body. The word chakra means “wheel” in Sanskrit. It can be helpful to visualize a vortex where energy accumulates as it flows throughout the human form. The seven chakras correspond to specific endocrine glands, body functions, conscious and unconscious thoughts, colors, elements, and much more.

This course is an excellent introduction to energy work for those having trouble “feeling” energy and for those just looking to expand their knowledge. Aligning and Clearing the Chakras teaches the basics of the human energy field. Students will learn hands-on and meditation techniques to align the chakras and affect the layers of the aura. These methods can be used for personal growth or to empower others.

Prerequisite: none
Requirements: Bring a notebook and pen

This class will help you feel confident that you are doing everything you can to protect yourself and your clients in regard to communicable diseases including covid.  Obtain an understanding of safety and infection control procedures to follow in your practice to protect both yourself and your clients.

We’ll also discuss how to communicate with your clients before and during appointments to get them on board with participating in a sanitary service and help build their confidence in coming to you.  We will go over types of infectious diseases, various forms of decontamination and protection, OSHA guidelines, and Universal precautions, as well as a basic understanding of the laws and rules needed to abide by to work in a salon or spa that falls under Cosmetology Establishment licensing.

Prerequisite: none
Requirements: Bring a yoga mat, and wear non-restrictive clothing allowing full range of movement. In consideration of moderate physical exertion, non-revealing fitness attire is acceptable.

The word yoga is Sanskrit for union-the union of the body and the mind. It teaches us to bring all aspects of ourselves and our lives into balance and harmony. Modern culture is more apt to reverse the mind at the expense of the body, although they are designed to be equal partners. The result of this imbalance are stress-related symptoms that afflict us. Yoga helps us become more healthy and whole as the body responds to the mind’s suggestions, and the mind is alert to the feeling and needs of the body. This class will focus on the specific needs of massage therapists: the physical stresses on our body, the emotional impact of being givers, and the need to feel rejuvenated while we work. Learn postures and techniques that can relieve stress and give you energy in your daily life or between clients.

Prerequisite: none
Requirements: Bring a notebook, washcloth and hand towel.

Each day we use scents to communicate, elevate, and recreate moods and sensations. Scents are unique in their ability to access the central nervous system without being filtered by the blood-brain barrier. Scents alone can directly stimulate the limbic center of the brain, the seat of emotion and memory. Aromatherapy uses essential oils derived from plants, roots, flowers, trees, and fruits to bring about physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual balance within people and environments.

This class will explore the different aromas and therapeutic properties of essential oils. We will additionally discuss how oils are processed and how to ensure the oil quality. You will learn a variety of methods to use essential oils in your practice including mixing essential oils with massage lubricant, diffusers, steam showers, bath salts and space clearing. Students will create an aromatherapy blend to use in class and take home.

Prerequisite: none

This class does a deep dive into the digestive system and its connection to our overall health. This includes the correlation between our brain and digestive health and emotional well-being.

Prerequisite: none

Guided Imagery is a useful technique in the healing process. Numerous medically-based studies have proven its effectiveness. A myomassologist who can offer guided imagery along with massage possesses a skill that enhances their ability to help their clients. This class will provide students with a variety of dialogues they can use during a massage to assist a client’s relaxation and healing process.

Imagery is a tool that utilizes the power of one’s mind to achieve desired physical and emotional results. It can stimulate all of our senses – sight, sound, smell, taste, and feeling. When we remember or anticipate an event, we do so with our whole body. These thoughts can cause our face to flush, our pulse to quicken, and our hormones to energize. What the mind/body believes to be true creates physiological responses which help to encourage healing.

Prerequisite: 12 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring a notebook and pen.

Massage therapists encounter multiple clients taking prescription drugs.  The therapist needs to have an understanding of how medications may change a massage session, and even dictate modifications to the treatment.  This Pharmacology for Massage Therapists class will describe basic classifications of medications and their effects on the body.  Students will learn how to tailor or modify massage sessions to accommodate pharmaceutical restrictions.  A number of medications will be covered, but psychiatric, pain, cardiovascular, diabetes and anti-inflammatory medications will be focused on.

Prerequisite: none

In recent years, western medicine has begun to wake up to a concept that Myomassologists have always known: We must treat the complete body and mind along with the symptoms of an illness. Complementary and alternative medicine is gaining popularity as science, medicine, and spirituality begin to come together to share tools for healing.

This class will detail the mind/body connection so vital to the process of caring for the entire person, and how that connection can be used to heal the body. Students will learn the ways that body, mind, and spirit work together toward self-healing, and how the thoughts, feelings, and words we choose every day can affect our bodies and immune systems.

Emotions can and do affect our health, and illness can be an opportunity to learn. We will emphasize the roles that the outer world and our overall attitude play in self-healing and inner peace.

Mind/Body Medicine examines western medicine in relation to its eastern counterpart, and how alternative techniques, ideas, and treatments are useful in conjunction with traditional care to put individuals back in control of their own healing.

We will also focus on the role that a Myomassologist can play in mind/body cooperative healing, and how often allowing an individual to really talk is the most potent medicine we can offer them. This look at the power of treating a complete individual will encourage you to challenge and expand your thoughts and attitudes on health, healthcare, and the relationship between the mind and body.

Prerequisite: none
Requirements: Bring a rattle, yoga mat, and a stone or crystal of your choice.

Sound and vibration have been used for centuries for healing the body, mind, and spirit. This elective provides a basic understanding of the principles of working with sound as a healing modality and demonstrates ways in which it can be used to restore balance.

You will be taught how to visualize and apply intention through sound vibrational tools. These will include quartz crystal bowls, rainstick, rattles, bells, chimes, and drums.

The focus will be on the seven main chakras and understanding how sound and mindfulness take part in helping to enhance and cleanse one’s energy. Students will be working with the White Light and trained in various techniques derived from the instructor’s years of sound healing experience.

All students will leave class conscious of mindfulness to sound vibration. They will also be able to apply the techniques learned to both individuals and group settings.