Over a 6 month period the student will be familiarized with the basis from which most massage was derived. The student will learn theory, history, and the fundamentals of massage therapy. During the course, the student will learn allied modalities, business of massage, proper draping techniques, and will be prepared for performance of a full body Swedish massage routine.

This class will consist of an in depth view into the major systems of the body and how these systems can be influenced by massage therapy. A great deal of attention will be placed on the structure (anatomy), function (physiology), and the involved disease processes (pathology) of each system. In addition, an introduction to eastern anatomy and physiology theory will be covered including meridian theory with emphasis on Yin and Yang, the transformational elements, the understanding of Chi, or Prana as well and the Ayurvedic chakra system. Also taught at the beginning of the course will be Aids/HIV Education and Medical Errors Prevention.

This course covers the entire muscular system in great detail and how each muscle creates movement of the joints on the body (Kinesiology). This class will be the foundation of learning for the Clinical Structural Bodywork class which identifies faulty movement patterns that cause degeneration, irritation and pain. Also during this class the student will examine the Principles of Hydrotherapy, Florida Laws and Rules, and cover allied modalities such as Kinesiotaping and stretching.

Clinical Structural Bodywork will utilize information from Wednesday’s class and examine the degenerative processes that accompany improper movement patterns and associate pain. The students will receive in-depth examinations of posture and how it can identify the imbalances of the musculoskeletal system. The students will then observe and perform treatment protocols for those specific tissues. Also during this class the students will examine allied modalities of massage that focus on treatment to the postural imbalances and structure of the body such as Neuromuscular massage and Rolfing.

At midterm point, students start in clinic. Student clinic is added to the schedule during the last last three months of the program. Clinicals give the student the opportunity to apply what they have learned and are learning in the classroom on the general public. This is a time the students begin to evaluate the client and create a treatment plan according to distortions and painful conditions. The students will perform either a 60-minute, 90-minute or 120-minute massage.