Therapeutic Massage Level 2

Therapeutic Massage Level 1 presents a powerful and fluid massage sequence that integrates Swedish, Esalen, and Deep Tissue techniques with stretching sequences and Polarity Therapy energy work. Comprehensive fundamentals of professional bodywork including evaluation, applied anatomy, proper body mechanics, focused intention, sensitivity of touch, and communication skills are integrated into each practice session.

Students are trained to use leverage through proper body mechanics and movement from their center to achieve deep pressure instead of effort, so that their work is as much a joy to give as it is to receive. A rich foundation is laid that honors the intuitive and creative, as well as an anatomically precise approach to therapeutic massage.

This course is NOT about memorizing a set routine, but rather allowing the dance of your hands to evolve with confidence and grace. You will learn how to adapt a sequence to best meet your client’s needs from over two hours of innovative strokes and stretches.

With such a strong emphasis on hands-on skills, this course provides an outstanding foundation for the motivated beginner and inspiration to the practicing therapist.

A comprehensive manual covering all the course material complete with photographs of techniques is included.

No Prerequisites – Excellent Entry Course

Course Objectives: At the completion of the course, students will know and be able to:

● Identify and describe the physiological effects of touch and specific massage or bodywork techniques. (1.2.i)

● Identify and describe potential emotional effects of touch and specific massage or bodywork techniques (1.2.ii)

● Identify specific indications, contraindications and precautions to touch, massage and bodywork, considering pathologies and various populations (1.2.iii)

● Describe the purpose of assessments and data collection (1.6.ii)

● Demonstrate techniques that are within the scope of training and practice of commonly recognized massage therapy or bodywork disciplines. (2.2.i)

● Demonstrate techniques that are appropriate for each body area, including endangerment sites (2.2.iv)

● Identify and practice appropriate methods of sanitation and personal hygiene in the performance of massage and bodywork sessions. (2.2.v)

● Describe and demonstrate standard precautions (2.2.vi)

● Demonstrate safe and effective use of equipment (such as massage tables, massage chairs, bolsters) and supplies (such as linens, lubricants, gloves). (2.3.i)

● Identify and describe the effect of physical fitness and life style habits on the performance of massage and bodywork techniques. (3.2.i)

● Define and describe the effect of centering, focusing grounding and breathing on the performance of massage. (3.2.ii)

● Identify and demonstrate biomechanical skills necessary for the safe and effective performance of massage and bodywork techniques. (3.2.iii)

● Discuss and demonstrate the use of draping during treatment as a professional boundary. (4.2.vii)

● Describe the history of massage (6.1.i)

● Identify the role of professional associations for massage therapists and bodyworkers. (6.1.ii)