Lymphatic & Massage Studio of Barbara White

“Raising the Standards in Massage Education”

Course Descriptions

Aromatherapy

Live Seminar (12 CE hours)

Description:
This course is designed to build a fundamental knowledge of essential oils, their benefits, caveats and dangers. Discussions of the rendering processes and properties of oils are shared to assist in the selection of pure and safe oils. Consumer knowledge is important for the therapist’s safety as well as any recipient. This course shares recipes for making your own common household products and essential oil uses as well as building an understanding of how essential oils work.  Recipes included in this course are not intended as prescriptive or recommended uses. Knowledge of your scope of practice for any licenses you may hold is a must. Learn proper blending techniques and note the changes that occur in oil blends over time as they mature.

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Describe essential oils and volatility.
• Discuss the history and rendering processes of oils.
• Discuss Therapeutic Grade of oils.
• Safely select, blend, use and research essential oils.
• Define and discuss the meaning of GRAS and NEAT
• Describe different methods of essential oils use as they apply to the French, German and English models
• Identify active chemical constituents of Essential Oils
• Understand and discuss how essential oils work.
• Use and blend essential oils to create common household products
• Create balance blends that age with intended outcomes.

Asian Bodyworks

Live workshop (6 CE Hours) / Home Study(Theoretical Approach to Asian Bodyworks) (6 CE Hours)

Description:

This course is designed to build a fundamental knowledge of non-western therapies, the various theories that arise from the different cultures and a general approach to energy and self-balance using these principles. Meditation exercises are included to help each student develop their energies and focus.  Asian bodyworking systems are not the same as performing traditional therapies but the theory does help develop a whole body approach. Both client and therapist receive more from the session.

 At the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Describe the yin and yang relationship.
• List characteristics of both yin and yang.
• List 12 traditional Chinese medicine meridians
• Pair organ meridians by yin yang groupings.
• Identify the 2 extraordinary meridians.
• Define terminology used in non-western therapies
• Differentiate Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Ayurvedic theories and components
• Describe and discuss the 5 element theory
• Understand the use of a meridian clock
• Discuss basic components of Ayurvedic theory
• List 7 primary chakras

Ayurvedic Principles

Live Seminar (24 CE hours) / Home Study Course (12 CE hours)

Description:

This lesson introduces the theory and history of Ayurvedic massage as discussed in Dr. John Doulliard’s book, The Encyclopedia of Ayurvedic Massage. Discussion will include panchakarama, constitutional analysis, pranas, marmas, koshas and the flow of energies along the nadies and through the strota layers as they relate to the balance of the body, mind and spirit of the individual. These components are necessary foundations for the application of Ayurvedic Massage such as Abhyanga, Vishesh and Garshana. In addition these theories are also used in the spa applications such as Shirodhara and Swedana. The home study class is a theoretical approach only. Taken in advance of a hands-on class, it shortens the necessary time in the classroom and enhances the therapist’s connection to the work. Live seminars are available for hands-on training for Ayurvedic massage techniques and the carefully choreographed routines. This course is based on the Text of Dr. John Doulliard, The Encyclopedia of Ayurvedic Massage. ISBN978-1-55643-493-8 (required for class)

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Discuss the historical development of Ayurvedic Principles
• Define terms essential the understanding of Ayurvedic science
• Identify characteristics of the three doshas
• Understand the principles of living according to nature as defined in the “science of life”
• Describe the purpose and processes of Panchakarma
• Identify the Massage Therapist’s Scope of Practice in the Ayurvedic system
• Describe common Ayurvedic Therapies within the MT Scope of Practice
• Understand the Subtle Body system and it’s organization
• Identify the placement, order and functions of each Chakra
• Modify treatment considerations for constitutional analysis
• Live Seminar: Determine Constitutional Analysis, Select proper oils, Provide Abhyanga and Vishesh style massage, provide Garshana and Shirodhara

Balneology, Scrubs and Muds

Course Description

Live Seminar (16 hours)

Balneology is the science of the therapeutic use of baths. In this course we will explore the history of balneology, modern day spas, marketing and common spa products and treatments. Each student will give and receive a spa face treatment, Full body sugar scrub and clay wrap. Additional services will be discussed and may be experienced/provided. The use of water as a restorative agent is a powerful one. Come enjoy it with us. From ancient times to present day therapeutic modalities, water has long been one of our most potent allies in assisting the body’s healing process. This course will cover the properties of various products that may be used in spa applications as well as Providing Spa Face Treatments, Body Scrubs and Mud/Clay wrap.

Business Management for the Massage Therapist

Live Seminar (12 CE hours) / Home Study (6 CE hours)

Description:

Massage Therapists enjoy a wide range of employment opportunities from private studios to doctor’s offices, spas and resorts. Regardless of location most massage therapists find themselves self-employed and need basic business skills to achieve their potential. This course is designed to build a fundamental knowledge of building and maintaining the business portion of your practice.

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain marketing strategies & demographics
• List 4 different assets clients are looking for
• Identify your personal & professional boundaries
• Describe elements of conflict resolution
• Identify the difference between contract and employee agreements
• Write a business plan for a new or existing business
• Set service rates and calculate costs per client
• Manage basic bookkeeping
• Understand basic tax preparation and deductions

Deep Tissue Massage

Live Seminar (12 CE hours)

Description:
This course is designed to teach safe and efficient approaches in Deep Tissue Massage application including proper body mechanics for the therapist. We will discuss the differences in a “hard pressure” massage verses reaching the deeper layers of tissues. There will be a focus on the details of human anatomy, physiology and pathologies to enhance each student’s understanding of the techniques presented and improved results in reaching the client’s goals.

Objectives:

• Each Participant will be able to explain the difference between the massage elements of pressure and depth
• The participant will be able to demonstrate proper body mechanics to increase leverage and reduce personal body strain and expenditure of energy.
• The participant will be able to discuss the stages of rehabilitation as they apply to the scope of practice of a massage therapist
• Each Therapist will explain how the physiological laws apply to bodywork
• Each Participant will demonstrate postural analysis techniques for the purpose of selecting proper massage applications
• Each participant will perform massage applications to reduce muscular tension in the shoulder girdle and upper extremities, pelvic girdle and lower extremities, cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, and respiratory muscles

Kinesiology Taping

Live Seminar (6 CE hours)

In this course, we will discuss the properties and theory of elastic taping. We will explore loading and off-loading of muscle groups and joints as well as the neurological influence of the tape in enhancing performance, reducing pain, stabilizing a joint or muscle group. We will learn uses of the tape to reduce swelling in certain regions.

Knowing your Canvas

Live Seminar (Four 6 CE hour Courses)

This in depth musculo-skeletal study is both instructor and video guided with palpation of structures both static and in motion. Learn the in depth operations of the body including the nerves that innervate and operate the whole human machine. Learn Agonist-Antagonist pairs as well as synergists and fixators and how they change rolls with different motions and postures.

Hot Stone Massage Class

Live Seminar (12 hours)

Description:
Hot Stone Massage is an amazing treatment that has a long history. This course presents an historic accounting of this age old therapy as well as the modern day spa uses. Providing hot stone massage is more complex than picking up river rocks from a flower bed and heating them for use on the body. We will cover the properties of the stones, selection of quality stones and their proper care. In addition, we will take a look at equipment requirements and recommendations for use with stones. A full body hot stone routine is presented by an experienced instructor, then practiced and received by each participant. This is a class to truly enjoy.

Each student will be able to:

• Discuss the history of hot stone massage
• Discuss the effects of heat on human anatomy and physiology
• Screen for contraindications and caveats
• Make appropriate modifications to treatment plans
• Identify and select quality stones
• Chose quality heating an treatment equipment
• Set up for treatment and manage stone temperatures
• Provide a full body hot stone session
• Market Hot Stone Massage

Hot Bamboo Massage

Live Seminar (12 CE hours)

Description:
Penetrate the tissues deeply and safely with little effort using heated bamboo tools. During chair massage events, Bamboo tools help prevent fatigue by providing leverage and removing strain from your body and joints. The heated tools relax tissues without effort.  Bring tools that the clients love and they will remember you. The heated tools penetrate tissues with ease and glide and roll over clothing effortlessly. This is your opportunity to stand out while you save your hands. This class will present proper tool selection, care and use. We will be blending the use of bamboo and stones in this class to work the fascia and deep muscles of the body on both the table and in the chair. Each student will learn multiple techniques using a variety of bamboo tools and will be able to provide a full body service.

At the end of this course each participant will:

1. Identify and select quality tools
2. Identify different types of tools and their uses
3. Explain the proper methods of caring for the bamboo tools
4. Demonstrate proper set up of equipment
5. Demonstrate Gliding techniques, Rolling, Petrissage, Trigger Point, Stripping
6. Provide Full Body Bamboo Massage
7. Utilize safe pressure protocols
8. Utilize secure modified draping methods
9. Demonstrate seated massage techniques
10. List Indications & Contraindications for use of Bamboo
11. List the Benefits of Hot Bamboo Massage
12. Identify effective marketing strategies for Bamboo Massage

Therapeutic Use of Side-Lying Position (Lateral Recumbent)

Live Seminar (8 CE hours)

Effective and proper use of body positions are necessary to reach client goals. Frequently overlooked and under-utilized is lateral recumbent (side-laying position) as well as seated positions. Our choice of position can open or close muscle groups and joints. In this course, we will explore proper table height, body mechanics, draping and bolstering as well as therapeutic approaches to muscle groups and joints across the whole body in lateral recumbent positions. Some seated positions will be demonstrated as alternatives. This course is a component of our Neuromuscular Therapy program.

LomiLomi Hawaiian Massage

Live Seminar (16 CE hours)

Description:
Lomi means to massage or weave and is a deeply rooted part of the Hawaiian heritage. This course will cover a brief history in the Lomi traditions to foster a connection with the work. This sacred art must be felt and embraced from the inside out in order to be translated to the recipient. Providing is as good for the giver as the receiver. This deeply penetrating massage weaves the whole body together as the method massages from foot to head, left and right, top and bottom all at the same time. The constant figure 8 movements disrupt tension and stress holding patterns physically, mentally and emotionally and allow a loving safe place to heal. In a sense, it “re-boots” the system. This modality receives an “A” in my book as one of the most fantastic bodyworking methods ever!

At the end of this course each participant will be able to:

• Develop a connection to the Hawaiian tradition of LomiLomi
• Set appropriate table height to facilitate this therapy
• Securely manage towel draping
• Demonstrate required body mechanics, breathing and movement patterns
• Develop the use of forearms as the primary tool
• Perform fluid gliding strokes over and under the body
• Provide and receive a full body lomi session

Lymphatic Drainage-Full Body

Live Seminar (16 CE hours)

Description:

The lymphatic system, much to our demise, is often overlooked in our healthcare regimes. It is our greatest asset in prevention of illness, fluid retention, edemas and cancer. This silent system only moves 2-20% of the fluids and toxins in our bodies, but is so powerful that if it shuts down, death may occur within 24-48 hours. This course teaches gentle techniques in moving this very powerful system to regain health, maintain health and prevent disease. Students should be able to competently incorporate these gentle techniques into their practice upon completion of this course.

Lymphatic drainage is a process of using the body’s own lymphatic system to move fluid, cellular debris, long chain fatty acids, large proteins as well as viruses and bacteria from the interstitial (in between the cells) spaces.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) are used for a variety of cases from full body detoxification, post-surgical swelling/healing, post cancer recovery, primary/secondary lymphedema’s and neurological-lymphatics to drain tissues of the brain and Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) for Alzheimer’s and COVID Long-Haulers to name a few.

We teach a basic nationally certified class that is built off the fundamentals necessary to understand these processes and prepares you for auto-immune disorders such as Lupus, Epstein Barr Virus, Bartonella’s, Lyme disease, ALS and full body detoxification for health, drug and alcohol recovery and various illnesses. We will discuss common fads and their harmful effects on the body during post-surgical healing.

As more hours and practice are needed for the other uses of Lymphatic Drainage and Bandaging full lymphedemas, those are additional programs. Full CLT and CDT certifications require about a year and 135hr continuous program and can approach close to $10k by the time you’re done with the program costs, travel, lodging, food, supplies and exams. Our programs offer a certificate showing you are trained to work within certain guidelines but they are not full certifications as they are broken up into bite size pieces. You can build on your knowledge as you build experience.

Objectives:

• Discuss the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system
• Locate the lymph node clusters
• Map the direction and order of lymphatic drainage in the body
• Palpate congestion within the lymphatic system
• Set lymphatic treatment plan
• Provide client education for the lymphatic system
• Demonstrate a full body lymphatic drainage session

The basic Lymphatic Drainage-Full Body course is a prerequisite for these advanced training classes.

Lymphatic Drainage Post-Operative Recovery

Live Seminar (6 CE hours)

The body swells from any injury as a means of healing and splinting or protecting the damaged area. As fluid (swelling) moves in to the area, fresh nutrients are brought in and as that fluid moves out, it takes cellular debris and wastes. This natural process helps the body heal. Frequently surgery causes severe damage to the tissues and the lymphatic system, which is frequently damaged in the process, becomes mechanically compromised and over-loaded. Lymphatic Drainage improves the removal of debris so fresh nutrients can arrive. Reduction in fluid aids in comfort and the outcome of surgical procedures. We will be discussing common surgeries including knee and hip replacements/repairs, Mastectomies, and Hernia repairs. Special attentions will be made to cosmetic surgeries such as liposuction, breast reductions, breast lifts, breast implants, breast reconstructions, various types of tummy tucks and muscle repair, fat transfer/grafting for glutes, hips and breasts as well as a variety of body implants and face cosmetics and plastics. Safe and Effective Manual Lymphatic Drainage that is specific to these injuries is taught. Proper positioning and bolstering will be taught for each situation.

Cancer Recovery and Limb Decongestion

Live Seminar (6 CE Hours)

Focus on the specifics of various cancer surgeries and treatments is made and the compromised regions left behind. With scaring and lymph node removal, the body is challenged to maintain healthy removal of cellular wastes and interstitial fluids. We will be learning advanced techniques to de-congest limbs that are developing or have existing secondary lymphedemas with proper routing and re-routing of lymph fluid through anastomosis . We will discuss the use of elastic tape (kinesio-tape) for advanced lymphatic drainage as well as post MLD treatment compressive garments.

Cranial Decongestion/ Neuro-Lymphatics

Live Seminar (6 CE Hours)

Lymphatic Drainage of the tissues of the brain and spinal cord for the purpose of removing damaging toxins, plaque and amyloid beta proteins that are commonly associated with brain fog, Alzheimer’s,COVID19 Vaccine, COVID19-Long-Haulers, concussions and auto-immune disorders. Treatment includes cranio-sacral and Myofascial techniques combined with Lymphatic Drainage of the upper chains.

Marketing Me

Live Seminar (6 CE hours)

Description:
You cannot, not communicate. We will discuss 5 categories of “marketing me” with emphasis is on interpersonal communication skills and understanding the market. This course is designed to teach effective and ethical practice building skills and promotional ideas. How effectively are you interacting with your clientele demographics? This practice building seminar is a must for all therapists. Come prepared to market you.

Each participant will:

• Learn 5 ways in which they market themselves to others
• Be able to describe the importance and components of verbal and non-verbal communication
• Become more aware of their body language
• Identify their demographic audience
• Develop marketing strategies
• Refine presentation skills

Myofascial Release

Live Seminar (16 CE hours) / Home Study (Theoretical Approach to MFR -12 CE hours)

Description:

Students will gain insight into a frequently overlooked system of the body and learn the fundamental theories of Myofascial Release that allow adhesions to break loose and elongate collagen fibers. Fascia lines our bodies inside out from head to toe. From the sheaths of each muscle fiber to the skin on our arms, fascia effects every movement we make. Adhesions within the fascial system frequently branch out to invade distant structures of the body causing pain and postural distortions. This class will discuss the structures of the fascial system and the effects obstructions within the system can cause and the gentle techniques that can unwind far reaching adhesions.  It is important to understand that even the gentlest techniques can have a very potent effect on the body and never forces the system. Theoretical Approach to Myofascial Release Home Study course is meant for theoretical understanding of the fascial system and is not meant to replace classroom instruction in application of the technique. If you are intrigued by this work please sign up for a live workshop.

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Discuss the purpose and functions of the fascial system
• Identify the fascial sheaths of the body
• Compare and contrast Collagen, Elastin and Ground Substance
• Describe thixotropy
• Define tensegrity as it relates to the human body
• Differentiate between cross-linkages and adhesions
• Understand unwinding of restricted tissues
• Discuss transverse diaphragms
• Discuss the impacts that adhesions have in the transverse diaphragms
• Identify different MFR techniques

Neuromuscular Therapy: Cervical-Thoracic

Live Seminar (16 CE hours)

Description:
Neuromuscular Therapy is an educated approach to treating compromised tissues. Specifically we are addressing the proprioceptive neuromuscular balance, smooth movement & firing order of muscles. We will learn to address over-stimulated muscles and under-stimulated muscles to reduce pain patterns and postural shifts in the human body.
The purpose of this course is to teach the relation between structure, dysfunction and pain, and to provide an educated approach to treating them.

At the conclusion of this course you will:

• Define Neuromuscular Therapy, its importance and how it differs from other therapies
• Identify and discuss tensegrity, postural distortions and spiral diagonal patterns as they correlate to specified pain patterns.
• Identify tight vs. taught muscle groups and apply appropriate technique to balance muscle tone.
• Discuss the physiological laws of bodywork as they apply to massage therapy.
• List and define the stages of Rehabilitation as they apply to the Massage Therapist’s Scope of Practice
• Successfully and safely address clients with scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis, thoracic torsions and compressions, forward head posture, thoracic outlet syndrome, whiplash, torticollis, herniated and protruding disks, unbalanced respiratory patterns from stress and anxiety, stubborn Quadratus Lumborum pain, TMJ Dysfunction, headaches and more.
• Perform Abdominal Massage
• Learn Muscle energy techniques

Learn Releases for the Latissimuss Dorsi, QL, Multifidus & deep spinal rotators, spinal erectors, Rectus Abdominus, Respiratory Diaphragm, Internal & External Intercostals, Anterior and Posterior Serratus muscles, Scalenes, Sternocleidomastoid, plytasma, splenius group, masseters, ptyregoids, hyoids, sub-occipitals

Neuromuscular Therapy: Lower Extremities

Live Seminar (12 CE hours)

Description:
Neuromuscular Therapy is an educated approach to treating compromised tissues. Specifically we are addressing the proprioceptive neuromuscular balance, smooth movement & firing order of muscles. We will learn to address over-stimulated muscles and under-stimulated muscles to reduce pain patterns and postural shifts in the human body.
The purpose of this course is to teach the relation between structure, dysfunction and pain, and to provide an educated approach to treating them.

During this course you will:

• Define Neuromuscular Therapy, its importance and how it differs from other therapies
• Identify postural distortions, spiral diagonal patterns and gate patterns as they correlate to specified dysfunctions
• Discuss tensegrity, Identify tight vs. taught muscle groups and apply appropriate technique to balance muscle tone.
• Successfully and safely address clients with Medial and lateral foot placement (duck footed and pigeon toed), Genu Verus and Genu Valgus (knock knee and bow leg) and flat foot.
• Perform techniques to relieve I-T band pain, hamstring/quadriceps spasms, “Charlie horses” and groin pulls, knee pain, ankle sprains and plantar fasciitis.
• Learn Muscle energy techniques.

Neuromuscular Therapy: Lumbo-Pelvic

Live Seminar (16 CE hours)

Description:
Neuromuscular Therapy is an educated approach to treating compromised tissues. Specifically we are addressing the proprioceptive neuromuscular balance, smooth movement & firing order of muscles of the lumbo-pelvic region. We will learn to address over-stimulated muscles and under-stimulated muscles to reduce pain patterns and postural shifts in the human body. The purpose of this course is to teach the relation between structure, dysfunction and pain, and to provide an educated approach to treating them.

During this course you will:

• Define Neuromuscular Therapy, its importance and how it differs from other therapies
• Identify and discuss tensegrity, postural distortions and spiral diagonal patterns as they correlate to specified pain patterns.
• Identify tight vs. taught muscle groups and apply appropriate technique to balance muscle tone.
• Discuss the physiological laws of bodywork as they apply to massage therapy.
• List and define the stages of Rehabilitation as they apply to the Massage Therapist’s Scope of Practice.
• Successfully and safely address clients with anterior and posterior pelvic tilts, up-slips and down-slips, excessive or diminished lumbar curve, unstable pelvis and postural distortions.
• Perform techniques to relieve sciatic nerve pain, stubborn Quadratus Lumborum pain, incompetent resisted hip flexion (kicking or pushing objects with foot), hip and I-T band pain, hamstring spasms/cramps and groin pulls.
• Learn Muscle energy techniques.

PNF Stretching (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation)

Live Seminar (6 CE hours)

Description:
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitated Stretches are usually used when pain or limited R.O.M. exists. Proprioceptors and agonist / antagonist muscle groups are used to “trick” the muscles into a greater length. Experience this interactive workshop and learn advanced stretching and flexibility techniques for yourself and your clients. This tool will increase your effectiveness in the treatment room.

Objectives:

• Discuss the functions and differences in Muscle Spindle Fibers and Golgi Tendon Organs
• Demonstrate the different types of muscle contractions
• Describe Graded Responses
• Identify agonist-antagonist relationships
• Perform 2 variations of PNF stretches
• Provide advanced stretch techniques to all joints of the body
  

Posture & Gait Analysis

Live Seminar (6 CE hours) / Home Study (8 CE hours)

Description:

This course is designed to build a fundamental knowledge and understanding of posture and gait deviations. It is not intended for diagnosis or correction of imbalances. Identifying the root cause of discomfort is the beginning point in reaching the client’s goals. Students will develop theoretical knowledge and a thought process that will allow them to better select techniques that aid special populations with specific needs.

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Define Posture and Gait deviations.
• Describe normal posture and identify postural deviations.
• Describe a normal gait pattern and identify deviations from the norm.
• Discuss pelvic balance.

Prenatal Massage

Live Seminar (8 CE hours)

Description:

Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork which focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the steps of the childbirth experience.  While going through these changes, massage therapy can be used to enhance: the functions of muscles and joints, improve circulation and general body tone, and relieve mental and physical fatigue. This course presents safe application of massage for the mother to be including proper bolstering, positioning, contra-indications and pregnancy related endangerment sites. We will also discuss the various stages of pregnancy, anatomy and positions of the uterine ligaments and considerations that are present along the way.

Objectives:

After this class you should be able to:

• Explain how prenatal massage benefits the mother physically and emotionally
• List and describe pregnancy related complications and their symptoms that would contraindicate massage therapy
• Describe the physiological changes that take place in a woman’s body during pregnancy at each trimester
• Perform a full body massage during all three trimesters of pregnancy
• Provide proper prenatal bolstering and draping
• Provide a variety of useful pre-labor coaching suggestions to prepare your client for delivery, physically and emotionally
• Prepare suitable forms to use for release of liability and record-keeping

Professional Ethics and Standards of Practice

Home Study Course (6 CE hours)

Ethics is defined as a system of moral principles; the rules of conduct recognized in respect to a particular class of human actions or a particular group such as a social, religious culture. Professional ethics are recognized by a group practicing within a specific industry such as medical ethics.

Ethics is a branch of philosophy dealing with values relating to human conduct, with respect to the rightness and wrongness of certain actions and to the goodness and badness of the motives and ends of such actions. Ethics are founded on the fundamental principles of right conduct rather than on legalities. The philosophical study of the moral value of human conduct and of the rules and principles that ought to govern it is the foundation of our professional code of ethics and professional standards.

Many organizations for the professional advancement of Massage Therapy have codes of conduct to help direct the massage professional in moral and ethical operations. Adherence to these codes in addition to the local statutes and rules are absolutely necessary. This course is designed to meet the Ethics (4 hours) and Standard V (2 hours) requirements for recertification with NCBTMB.

Reflexology

Live Workshop (8 CE hours) / Home Study (6 CE Hours)

Description:

In reflexology theory, the body is divided into 10 longitudinal zones. It is based on the principle that specific points on the body, especially the hands, feet and ears can be manipulated to bring about a therapeutic effect in other areas of the body.  This course will focus on foot reflexology and theory.

Objectives:

At the end of this course each participant will:

• Discuss the theory of reflexology
• Map the zones and meridians of the foot
• Identify proper support techniques
• Discuss pressure techniques
• Differentiate reflexology session by zones vs. organ system

Shiatsu Level 1

Live Seminar (12 CE hours)

Description:

Shiatsu, meaning “finger pressure” in Japanese, is a traditional eastern approach to bodywork. This bodyworking method has its foundations rooted in the five element theory as it defines balance and control cycles of the body and uses the 12 paired meridians of the body as well as two extraordinary meridians. Yin and yang balance is re-established and maintained as the Qi energy, “life-force or breath” is circulated in its proper directions as pressure is applied to tsubu points along the meridians. Shiatsu is provided fully clothed on a floor mat and includes finger pressure and range of motion. In Level 1 we will apply a routine using the following meridians: Bladder 1 & 2, Kidney, Lung & Large Intestine. Theory, TCM anatomical position, terminology, body mechanics, and hand techniques will be covered.

Objectives:

At the end of this course each participant will:

• Discuss the five element theory and Yin-Yang balance
• Define Shiatsu,Qi, Hara, Kyo, Jitsu, Cun and Tsubo
• Map the Urinary Bladder, Kidney, Lung and Large Intestine Meridian pathways
• Demonstrate body mechanics for floor mat techniques
• Demonstrate pressure and hand techniques
• Complete a full body Shiatsu routine using supine, prone and seated positions
• Identify key tsubo points in the body

Shiatsu Level 2

Live Seminar (8 CE hours)

Description:

Shiatsu is provided fully clothed on a floor mat and includes finger pressure and range of motion. The Liver, Gallbladder, Stomach and Spleen meridians will be incorporated into the level 1 routine. The Lateral Recumbent position will be introduced along with additional stretches and range of motion techniques. Dӧ-In is a self-treatment and preparation tool that will again be used to enforce the benefits of shiatsu, energy balance and the pathway of the yin and yang meridians.

Objectives:

At the end of this course each participant will:

• Discuss Yin-Yang balance and direction of flow
• Map the Liver, Gallbladder, Stomach & Spleen Meridian pathways
• Demonstrate body mechanics for floor mat techniques
• Demonstrate pressure and hand techniques
• Complete a full body Shiatsu routine using Supine, Prone, Lateral Recumbent and Seated positions
• Provide and Receive Range of Motion and Stretching techniques
• Identify key tsubo points within the Liver, Gallbladder, Stomach & Spleen Meridians

Shiatsu Level 3

Live Seminar (8 CE hours)

Description:

Shiatsu is provided fully clothed on a floor mat and includes finger pressure and range of motion. The Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium and Triple Warmer meridians will be incorporated into the routine. Hara Palpation, Potent Points and Governing and Conception Vessels will also be discussed. Dӧ-In is a self-treatment and preparation tool that will again be used to enforce the benefits of shiatsu, energy balance and the pathway of the yin and yang meridians.

Objectives:

At the end of this course each participant will:

• Discuss Yin-Yang balance and direction of flow
• Map the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium and Triple Warmer Meridian pathways
• Demonstrate body mechanics for floor mat techniques
• Demonstrate pressure and hand techniques
• Complete a full body Shiatsu routine using Supine, Prone, Lateral Recumbent and Seated positions
• Provide and Receive Range of Motion and Stretching techniques
• Identify key tsubo points within the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, Triple Warmer, Governing and Conception Meridians

Shiatsu Level 4

Live Seminar (8 CE hours)

Description:

This course will focus on devising session plans, rather than a routine, that is built on each individual client’s needs. Emphasis will be placed on the meridian clock, hara palpation and signs and symptoms of the client presenting. We will theoretical discussion TCM diagnosis with an understanding that diagnosis and treatment are out of the scope of practice of a massage therapist. Techniques that use knees and feet will be practiced. Potent Point combinations for relieving common patterns will be demonstrated and practiced. It is recommended that you take this class only after considerable practice.

Objectives:

At the end of this course each participant will:

• Discuss hara palpation & TCM diagnosis theories
• Identify weak and strong meridian systems on the meridian clock
• Demonstrate body mechanics for knee and foot pressure techniques
• Provide a session to relieve common patterns of dysfunction

Therapeutic Use of Side-Lying Position

Live Seminar (8CE hours)

Effective and proper use of body positions are necessary to reach client goals. Frequently overlooked and under-utilized is lateral recumbent (side-laying position) as well as seated positions. Our choice of position can open or close muscle groups and joints. In this course, we will explore proper table height, body mechanics, draping and bolstering as well as therapeutic approaches to muscle groups and joints across the whole body in lateral recumbent positions. Some seated positions will be demonstrated as alternatives. This course is a component of our Neuromuscular Therapy program.

Traditional Thai Massage

Live Seminar (24 CE hours)

Traditional Thai Massage: Supine & Side Laying
Live Seminar (12 CE Hours)

Traditional Thai Massage: Prone & Seated
Live Seminar (12 CE Hours)

Description:
Traditionally, Thai Massage starts in the supine position, followed by each side in turn and then followed by prone position and finished in a seated position. This course incorporates techniques to open channels that are best suited to each posture. We will learn floor mat and table body mechanics, common poses, pressing protocols, safe and proper alignment of client and therapist as well as a centered approach to energy balance, smooth transitions and quality delivery. Very potent poses that open anterior Sen Channels are presented in this course. These channels are commonly guarded and the root of physical and psychological dysfunctions.

Objectives:

• Discuss a brief history of Thai Massage
• List Indications and Contraindications for Thai Massage
• Describe Qi movement within the Sen Channels
• List the 4 Divine States of Consciousness
• Properly prepare their space for a Thai Massage session
• Display personal energy balancing protocols before and after a Thai Massage session
• Properly move the client into supine position
• Properly move the client into side lying position
• Properly move the client into prone position
• Properly move the client into seated position
• Demonstrate effective bolstering and pose modifications for special populations
• Identify the Sen Channels that are opened to easier access in supine positions
• Identify the Sen Channels that are opened to easier access in side lying positions
• Identify the Sen Channels that are opened to easier access in prone positions
• Identify the Sen Channels that are opened to easier access in seated positions
• Demonstrate proper pressing protocols with thumbs, fingers, hands, elbows, feet and knees
• Demonstrate Range of Motion protocols for each joint
• Demonstrate proper stretching protocols for each muscle group
• Demonstrate safe and effective body mechanics for Thai Massage of the floor mat
• Demonstrate safe and effective body mechanics for Thai Massage of the table
• Demonstrate safe and effective application of common Thai Massage poses
• Provide and receive a Thai Massage routine with smooth transitions
• Properly align body for leverage and balance
• Cultivate a mature approach and professional attitude to Thai Massage poses