Swedish Massage Practitioner Training Program

This course addresses the whole person; body, mind and spirit, providing a solid foundation in therapeutic massage.

Overview

Touchstone Healing Arts School of Massage offers a 650 hour program in Swedish Therapeutic Massage. This course is a solid foundation in therapeutic massage, anatomy and physiology, clinical practice, professional development and communication skills. Upon completion of the program, graduates qualify for writing the NCTMB (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork) examination, although there is currently no licensing requirement in Vermont.

BODY

Bodywork, Practical --- Massage 1

Swedish massage provides a strong foundation for the study of all other massage modalities. We learn the classic massage manipulations that are reinforced through giving, receiving, and feedback. We emphasize massage application that is both sensitive and responsive to the tissues of the receiving individual, preparing the student to work shorter treatments, or in flowing, whole body sessions.

Massage II

Once confidence in basic Swedish massage is attained, students are ready for techniques that deepen their work or provide variety, creating a wealth of possibilities when devising a treatment session for an individual. Some of the modalities we cover are:

Deep Tissue Massage

In deep tissue massage, we learn to penetrate with intention through the layers of the body in ways that are safe for both giver and receiver. Using techniques such as trigger point therapy (point pressure on hyper-irritable areas in a muscle), isolated stretching, use of forearms and elbows.

Basic Reflexology

In this lively and informative component, students will learn the basic history behind reflexology, different theories of how reflexology works, the benefits and contraindications, and an effective choreography that provides the skills to begin incorporating reflexology into their practice. Students are well-prepared for further study in this complementary modality.

Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Students will gain a basic understanding of Eastern medical theory which includes: meridian energetics, five element theory, yin and yang, and acu-point location.

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is the treatment of stress, injury, trauma, or chronic conditions through the medium of water in its three forms--solid, liquid, and vapor. In this component, students will learn the therapeutic application of steams baths, ice and heat.

Aromatherapy

The introduction to essential oils, their healing properties, and methods of blending and applying them to the body or using them in other ways.

Chair Massage

For those who have never received bodywork, chair massage is an excellent medium to introduce and promote the benefits of massage therapy. In this component, students will be taught a simple, efective flow which includes therapies for: neck, shoulders, arms and hands, and even legs and feet. Students will have the opportunity to put into practice what they have learned by working on the public at an on-site venue.

Student Clinic

In the student clinic, offered in the second part of our program, students integrate their classroom and practical skills, providing massage therapy to our surrounding community. Supported by staff supervision, students receive invaluable feedback from clients, keep records of their work, and have opportunities to reflect upon their experiences with instructors and each other.

MIND

Massage Theory

Being able to massage is one thing, understanding what it can do and record its results is another. In this section, we will cover the indications and contraindications for massage, professionalism, ethics, and chartkeeping, as well as learning the history of massage and massage theory.

Anatomy & Physiology

In order to deepen our massage practice, we must understand how the body works. The more we practice, the more our understanding develops, as does our appreciation for the intricacies and details of the human body. For many, this part of the program, learning about the structure and function of the body, is learning a new language. With patience, support and practice, this new way of perceiving our physical body reveals itself.

Osteology, Myology & Kinesiology

The study of the bones, the muscles, and the movements of the human body deepens the practice of any form of bodywork. As we explore these structures beneath the skin, we gain greater understanding of how and why we move.

Pathology

An introduction to the body ill at ease, the study of disease. As we explore the healthy function of the body, we'll also look at some of the traditional Western diseases, when imbalances in our lives manifest physically.

Business Practices

Presentation and discussions throughout the year develop the concept of running one's own practice in a professional and ethical manner. Guest speakers are invited to share their experiences and knowledge from their field. Touchstone Healing Arts hosts a graduate panel, allowing current students to question past students on their experiences since graduating.

SPIRIT

Movement

The way in which we move, breathe, stand, sit and walk are powerful expressions of our relationship with ourselves and our surroundings. Through the mediums of yoga, zhan zhuang chi kung (Chinese standing meditation), and other techniques, we will explore new ways of movement, opening our minds and bodies to healthier, more genuine expressions of ourselves. We will apply this new perception of movement to assist us in nurturing our bodies, and to remain balanced and grounded in the day to day practice of massage.

Communication/Self-exploration

Students are encouraged to go as deeply as they choose into the experience of self-discovery that being part of a close group provides. We have ample opportunity to open up more fully to ourselves and each other as we develop trust and safe boundaries within the context of the group.Group check-in time is an effective way to develop listening skills and support others in the group. The container of the group is a very safe and loving place to share one's vulnerabilities, fears or joys.