Prerequisite: 12 hands-on classes or previous training, (pregnant women should avoid chair massage.)
Requirements: Bring an onsite chair or two pillows.

Chair massage has proved a valuable business tool for massage therapists for decades. Pioneered under the title “On-site Massage,” chair massage is a great way to increase clientele and income. The routines are performed on fully clothed clients on a special massage chair or using pillows to modify a standard chair. Once you’ve mastered chair massage, you can literally market your skills anywhere!

This class consists of a brief history and demonstration of the technique, followed by extensive hands-on exchange for students to practice several easy-to-learn chair routines. Students will find that chair massage is perfect for use in corporate settings, at salons and spas, and at all sorts of events, on its own or to draw new clients to their tables.

We will also focus on proper body mechanics for chair massage, assuring client comfort by adjusting the chair for their anatomy, marketing tips, and other practicalities. This class will equip you to really begin using your therapeutic skills in the marketplace.

Prerequisite: 4 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring two sheets and choice of oil or lotion 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 and oil or lotion.

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, 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: none
Requirements: Bring a sheet, towel, clean feet, and markers or colored pencils (and lotion, a pillow, and a blanket if desired).

One of the most requested skills in massage therapy today, Reflexology correlates points in the hands and feet to organs, areas, and systems of the body.

Many people are surprised to discover that a one-hour foot reflexology session can actually be as beneficial as a full body massage. This modality of the healing arts is an extremely effective way to provide touch in an easily accessible and non-threatening way.

In this class, the students learn how reflexology of the feet can ease aches and pains, help prevent illnesses and maintain health in the whole body. Massage, acupressure points, self-help exercises, and applications, as well as alternative reflexology techniques, are included.

Prerequisite: 12 hands-on classes or previous training
Requirements: Bring two flat sheets, a large bath towel, and hand towel.

For the spa industry, hot rock therapy is one of the most popular types of massage offered in the last decade. This course teaches the use of both hot and cold stones combined with various bodywork techniques. Designed to benefit the client as well as the practitioner, therapists find that the stones and their temperatures do much of the work for them.

This course teaches about the different types of stones used, proper care for your stones, and contraindications for stone therapy. You will learn a one hour stone therapy treatment, the physiological benefits, and how to incorporate the stones with your own massage techniques.

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

Using pressure no greater than the weight of a nickel, a CranioSacral Therapist can treat a wide range of medical problems, from migraine headaches to spastic cerebral palsy.

Widely acclaimed for its ability to bolster the body’s resistance to disease and its effectiveness on pain and dysfunction, CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle but powerful type of work that focuses on the movement of the fluids around the brain and spinal cord.

Based on the work and teachings of Dr. John Upledger, D.O., these techniques are designed to release bony and fascial restrictions in the body that are caused by physical, emotional, or mental trauma. This class is designed to prepare students to take the CranioSacral Therapy 1 course offered by The Upledger Institute.

It will introduce students to concepts behind CranioSacral Therapy, and the anatomy and physiology of the Cranial System. Students will have the opportunity to assess the CranioSacral rhythm and learn select techniques for the adult client.

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 and pillow.  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 Text: Touch for Health – The Complete Edition $30 student discount price.
Bring sheet and pillowcase, wear non-restrictive clothing allowing full range of movement. Bring a pen, notebook and highlighter.

Touch for Health (TFH) utilizes a system of applied kinesiology (muscle testing) to identify imbalances in the body’s energy system. It is an approach to restoring balanced energy by combining ancient Chinese therapies with Western methods of muscle testing. The protocols can be rather easily learned without prior knowledge and can be utilitized without extensive practice, making it a practical tool for a massage therapist to incorporate into their work.

TFH protocols encompass muscle testing, acupressure touch points, meridians and energy balancing to facilitate improved health. TFH teaches a holistic approach to the body’s energies to activate an intrinsic healing process. TFH was the first modality Irene learned to teach in the mid 1970’s. This experience launched her career as the successful massage therapy instructor she became.

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

Many people who use their hands and arms extensively for professional or personal reasons suffer from repetitive pain syndromes. These include carpal tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome and tennis elbow.

These pain syndromes cost employers a large amount of time lost and workmen’s compensation pay. In this class, students will learn orthopedic assessments for these syndromes. They will also learn various treatments to address and relieve the pain caused by these conditions.

Prerequisite: none

This class is not about good luck charms or hanging wind chimes in every doorway. It’s not about forcing your rooms into pre-fabricated patterns that will somehow help you win the lottery. Feng Shui expresses the intention to honor nature in everyday life, by working with, rather than against our surroundings to cultivate peace and prosperity.

An ancient Chinese system, Feng Shui is a tool for finding the optimal conditions for balance and harmony in the home, office, and landscape. Fire, earth, metal, water, and wood: these five elements are considered in relation to yin/yang attributes, the Bagua, and chi flow.

The class will cover the basic principles of Feng Shui and provide students with feedback on enhancing their own environment.

Prerequisite: none

This course has been a life-changing and transformational experience for many. The terms “spirituality,” “religion,” “metaphysics,” and “mysticism,” are defined, clarified and discussed for the purpose of helping you make knowledgeable decisions in your life while understanding others.

Of great significance is this course’s ability to supply you with valuable spiritual and mental tools for releasing negative blocks through mindfulness and meditation. Opening yourself to compassion, empathy, and love for all of your massage clients, no matter what cultural, ethnic, or religious background they possess.

The Golden Rule, the basic tenet at the core of every major religion, teaches us that we reap what we sow. It has been expressed as practicing compassion, karma, paying it forward, do unto others, etc. This class celebrates this Universal Truth that lies at the heart of every individual’s success.

By correcting misperceptions in order to heal the mind of guilt, fear, pain, and loss we can experience healing. Releasing a belief system that no longer serves us can have a profound impact on our life and work.

Based on the timeless insights of the Buddha and other great spiritual teachings, this class teaches keys to inner peace and happiness. This course of study will instill a greater sense of mastery and empowerment over challenging life situations as you learn to release attachment.

As you grow spiritually, you will be more effective as a massage practitioner because your sense of compassion will expand. While many of your massage clients will be seeking a greater understanding of themselves and their spiritual nature, you will often find yourself on the same path.

Prerequisite: none

Learn how to prevent diseases naturally through environmental health, nutrition, and detoxification. Disease prevention will be presented with a holistic approach addressing the mind, body, and spirit. This information can be used in your own life and shared with clients.

Environmental health will include safe cosmetics, safe household materials such as plastics and cleaners, and green renovation options. Nutrition health will include information on specific diets, organic foods and using food as medicine. Detoxification information will include safe ways to detox your body effectively so it can function optimally.

Prerequisite: none

Civilizations across the world, from ancient Egyptian to Native American cultures, have used stones and crystals in spiritual rituals and for their healing powers. Although no one knows the exact science behind the phenomenon, the earth’s minerals show an inexplicable capacity to alter and enhance response in the human body.

This workshop will explore the potential of using stones to heal. We will experiment with flow patterns in the human energy field using crystal layouts, and discuss basic patterns for using stones to complement the energy centers of the body. This class is perfect for anyone fascinated with the beauty and energy locked within stones and crystals can add new dimensions to traditional massage.

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: Wear non-restrictive clothing allowing full range of movement that exposes shoulders, legs, and arms.

Kinesiology Taping relieves pain through both physical and neurological mechanisms. The lifting action of the tape relieves pressure on pain receptors directly under the skin, allowing for quick relief from acute injuries.

Chronic pain is affected through sensory stimulation of other types of nerve fibers. Students will learn the best ways to apply Kinesiology Tape to the major joints and muscles. This practice will serve to help prevent injuries to athletes and help current sprains and injuries to heal faster.

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.