A Career in Holistic Therapies?

This course will cover the 12 meridians (pathways, point location, therapeutic use of acupoints) and various types of acupressure treatments including: five elements, antique points, tending-muscular, body armouring, mental-emotional, Gua Sha and more. By the end of the course, the students will be able to choose powerful point combinations in order to works with a wide range of disharmonies. Students will also be refining the myriad components that will make the art of acupressure their own.

Prerequisites: Acupressure 1, Traditional Chinese Medicine 1 & 2

Categories: Program-Core, Continuing Education
Duration: 200 hours
Cost: $2070

An in depth look into the human body anatomy, specifically the musculoskeletal system. The first part is theory. We will cover all of the anatomical names, planes of movement, structures and actions of the body in both theory and through somatic experience. Palpation tips and hands on touch are a big part of this class, and how it relates to massage therapy. This is offered as one part of a 2 part course- Physiology and Pathology, which looks at all 10 of the human body systems, its anatomy and function, and specific pathologies of each system.

Categories: Program-Core **required for all Diploma Programs**
Duration:  45 hours
Cost: $450

This advanced course will go deeper into the layers of anatomy: bones, muscles, O/I, muscle fiber direction, actions and connective tissues. By exploring case studies and treatment plans, students will gain clinical experience in working with the body through a postural and biomechanical approach.

*Pre-requisite: Anatomy 1
Duration:  45 credit hours
Cost: $450

This course is designed for the massage and naturo-therapist specifically on how to file as an independent contractor, wage worker, or sole proprietor.  They will put together a resume, business plan, work with bookkeeping, marketing and advertising Exploring the different mediums from social media, print advertisements, flyers, brochures, business cards, and master the heart-based elevator pitch.  Comprehensive training, meditation/visualization and practical assignments will be a large part of training. Each student will be held accountable with follow up coaching sessions. This course will have a holistic approach following the principles of the 5 Elements, while creating balance in work and personal life.

Categories: Program Core, Continuing Education, General Interest
Duration: 60 credits
Cost: $600

This 2 day workshop will teach students how to give a 15-20 minute chair massage that targets the shoulders, neck and back that is popular in the corporate or event setting.   On site stage is included.

Categories: Program Core, Continuing Education, General Interest
Duration: 30 credits
Cost: $250

A Champi is an invigorating scalp massage designed to stimulate and refresh the individual. The word shampoo comes for the Hindi word Champi meaning head massage. This workshop will teach the basic routine for giving a 50 minute seated shoulder, neck, face and scalp massage. This technique can help reduce stress, headaches, tension and open the upper three chakras.

Categories: Continuing Education, General Interest
Duration: 15 credits
Cost: $125

Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle, noninvasive manipulative technique which can improve the functioning of the central nervous system, eliminate the negative effects of stress, strengthen resistance to disease, and enhance overall health.

Using a soft touch, practitioners release restrictions in the cranial sacral system to improve the functioning of the central nervous system. Cranial Sacral Therapy has a profound effect in the physical, emotional and spiritual level.

Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle manual manipulation of the back of the head used for evaluation and for making corrections in a system made up of cerebrospinal fluid, cranial and dural membranes, cranial bones, and sacrum. The technique is somewhat similar to light massage that is aimed at freeing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid to restore balance to the physical and emotional body. It is a method of Complementary and alternative medicine used by massage therapists, naturopaths, chiropractors and osteopaths, who manually apply a subtle movement of the spinal and cranial bones in an attempt to bring the central nervous system into harmony. This therapy involves assessing and addressing the movement of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which can be restricted by trauma to the body, such as through falls, accidents, and general nervous tension.

By gently working with the spine, the skull and its cranial sutures, diaphragms, and fascia, the restrictions of nerve passages are eased, the movement of CSF through the spinal cord can be optimized, and misaligned bones are said to be restored to their proper position. Craniosacral therapists use the therapy to treat mental stress, neck and back pain, migraines, TMJ syndrome, and for chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia.

Duration: 30 credits
Cost: $300

In this 2 day hybrid workshop we will be learning how to use cupping to help our clients and family. We will cover the Western and Eastern uses. Cupping is one of the best deep-tissue therapies available. It is thought to affect tissues up to four inches deep from the external skin. Toxins can be released, blockages can be cleared, and veins and arteries can be refreshed within these four inches of affected materials. Even hands, wrists, legs, and ankles can be ‘cupped,’ thus applying the healing to specific organs that correlate with these points.

Prerequisites: practicing modality or current student of massage or bodywork

Categories: Continuing Education
Duration: 15 credits
Cost: $300 + cost of Cupping set

A type of massage which reaches structures far beneath the superficial fascia to relieve chronic muscle problems or injuries by breaking down adhesions and realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. Pre-requisite: Swedish Level I

Categories: Continuing Education
Duration: 60 credits
Cost: $600

Bach flower essences are used to help emotional suffering and clear static that can cause blockages on all levels. This course will give students insight on each flower remedy, its uses and indications. One full day is dedicated to observing the art of listening and case taking. Students will then have a chance to take a case while being supervised and receive advice and feedback from their peers.

Categories: Program Core, Continuing Education, General Interest
Duration: 24 hours
Cost: $280

This course features lectures, discussions, readings, sharing and experiential work done in small groups. The students will develop interviewing techniques and core abilities in helping relations as it directly applies to professional and personal relationships, how to recognize transference, and gather tools to manage relevant information about their clients.

The second section will cover all aspects of sexuality, including anatomy, gender, orientation, pleasure, trauma, consent and boundaries. This understanding is necessary to providing holistic and inclusive care to a diverse group of clients. Students will gather tools on how to recognize trauma in both themselves and clients and learn methods on how to work within the boundaries of a therapeutic relationship.

Professional aspects and integrity is always present in any work that deals with human experience, contact, and respect. It is important for students to understand and abide to each association’s professional codes of deontology and how to navigate these rules for both safety of the client, the public and for the profession.

Duration: 120 hours
Cost: $1200

Learn about the wild and cultivated herbs that grow locally and their many healing properties.  Part of this class is a lecture; the other part is experiential with a Herbalist guiding students on a nature walk to discover plants and trees using ALL of their senses.

Categories: Program Core, Continuing Education, General Interest
Duration: 30 credits
Cost: $300

Furthering their herbal knowledge and the skills acquired in Herb I, students will learn how to integrate herbs into their healing repertoire throughout the cycle of life. Starting with herbal allies for the childbearing year, students will study a variety of herbs that nourish, heal and support infants, children, adolescents, adults and elders. Students will have the opportunity to connect with their environment through herb walks and exploration, and use all of their senses to identify local plants and trees as they continue to discover how to harvest, transform and use herbs safely, effectively and ethically.

Prerequisite: Herbology  – Level 1

Duration:   50 credits
Cost:  $450

This course continues to explore the wonderful, medicinal world of HERBS… encouraging students to get to know more plants by heart, by (botanical) name and especially by their affinities for our different, yet so intertwined systems of the body. Students will learn how to enhance wellness by living actively, eating wisely and nourishing themselves with herbs, particularly as preventative medicine. Weaving the art and science of medicinal herbs into a broadening their view of the plant kingdom’s fascinating abilities to support and create wellness for themselves, their families and their clients.

Prerequisite: Herbology 1

Duration:   70 credits
Cost:  $450

You are what you eat. Whether looked at from a traditional Eastern point of view or that of conventional Western thought, it is widely recognized that the food you eat plays an important role in the self-care puzzle. This course offers an overview of nutrients as the building blocks of physical health, and takes a critical look at what’s “good” and what’s “bad” according to current standards. Different diets will be discussed to provide an understanding of the mainstream guidelines and a framework from which to better evaluate food choices. The digestive tract will be reviewed in terms of how it works (physiologically & symbolically) and the far-reaching impact of what happens to it under stress. This course is as suitable for the student of natural therapies as for anyone curious about how food and their body fit together.

Duration: 60 credits
Cost: $350

Cost:  $450

Cost:  $720

The exact date of the history of hot stones varies. Some say hot stones date as far back as 6500 B.C. in China.  Today, this ancient massage has been adopted in many spa settings and combines the use of hot and cold volcanic rocks with the soothing strokes of Swedish massage. The depth and warmth transmitted through the stones, creates a deeply relaxing and therapeutic experience. Students will learn how to give a full body hot stone massage, its benefits on all of the systems, and how to prepare and care for the stones. 

Prerequisite: Swedish 1

Duration: 30 credits
Cost: $250

*pre-requisite for Full Program

Will cover the principles of Shiatsu, including pressure, contact, body leverage and presence, through the 12 primary meridians. By the end of this session the student will learn how to give a full body (general) kata. This course can be taken alone, or as part of the full certification.

Duration:  15 credits
Cost:  $165

*pre-requisite for Full Program

We will cover the basic principles of Swedish Massage, including strokes, body leverage and draping. Some theory is included. By the end of this session the  student will be able to give a 1hour relaxing massage. This course can be taken alone, or as part of the full certification.

Duration:  15 credits
Cost:  $165

Duration:   60 credits
Cost:  $600

Learn a new way to work with disharmonies of the body inspired by Dr. Tan’s method adapted for Acupressure. It is based on meridian Theory and contra lateral treatment. Only distal points are used, chosen by determining the ‘sick’ meridian and using the 5 systems and Mirroring and Imaging Technique, mostly selected from the dynamic zone. It provides immediate and measurable results, and is a great addition to your therapeutic approaches.

Prerequisite: Acupressure 1, Shiatsu 1, Chinese Energistic Medicine 1

Duration:   15 hours
Cost:  $150

Almost all pathologies have more than one level of cause, and most have multi-level causes/cures. This course will clarify the physical, emotional, mental, inter-dimensional, karmic, soul-level, planetary and systemic/spiritual causes for disease and how to work with each level. Each level has specific things we must do in order to maintain and create health. As therapists, whether we work in bodywork, energy work, nutrition, coaching or talk therapy, we must be aware of the multi-level nature of our clients and their problems.

*Prerequisite: Anatomy and Physiology and Pathology 1
Duration: 35 credits
Cost:  $350

From micro to macro- this course follows traditional physiology starting with the study of the cell, organs, tissues, and finally the 10 body systems and how they interrelate. We will also look at each system in detail from its anatomy, function, and specific pathologies that could occur. At home research, homework and readings will be assigned to help the student understand how to research and compile a comprehensive holistic plan which includes both traditional forms of treatment alongside alternative medicine, including massage, lifestyle, and food choices. 

Categories: Program-Core **required for all Diploma Programs**
Duration: 45 hours
Cost: $450

Prenatal massage shares many of the goals of regular massage ­– to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good. But it’s also tailored specifically to the needs of pregnant women and their changing bodies, and therapists who are trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques accordingly.

Prerequisites: Swedish Massage

Categories: Continuing Education
Duration:  30 credits
Cost:  $250

This technique originates from Japan and literally means ‘finger pressure’

Shiatsu 1: Meridian Theory 

What is a meridian and how does it function? Meridians are referred to more and more in many non traditional forms of bodywork and energy techniques. A complete understanding of its pathways, areas of influence and tsubo points, will greatly enhance the student’s appreciation of the ‘whole body’ energy systems, and how that relates to health and dis-ease.

The entire afternoon will be dedicated to hands on experience with working with the meridian lines either on a futon mat or massage table and will can be adapted to other modalities as well.

Categories: Program Core, Continuing Education, General Interest
Duration: 90 Hours
Cost:  $780

Shiatsu 2: The 5 Elements

Students will learn about all the components of the 5 elements and how they relate to each other and our environment. We will examine different possible patterns of disharmony and how they show up as symptoms in the body or energy field. Reviewing the meridians in alternate positions will give students a deeper experience of how the energy feels in the body. Katas and deep stretches that target ailments will also be covered.

Prerequisites: Shiatsu 1

Categories: Program Core, Continuing Education
Duration: 100 Hours
Cost:  $360

Shiatsu 3: Clinical Application, Case Study and Supervision

In this final level of study, students will be able to integrate all of their knowledge and put it into practise in our advanced student clinics. They will also learn more advanced stretches, mobilizations, transitions and the barefoot shiatsu kata.

Prerequisites: Shiatsu 1 & 2

Categories: Program Core, Continuing Education
Duration: 100 Hours
Cost:  $360

Supervision and Case Study (additional 16 hours)
Included in Diploma

Elective and Continuing Education (up to 70 hours)

• Prenatal massage
• Chair massage
• Chinese cupping
• Champi
• Reflexology
• Flower essence
• Holistic nutrition
• Mirroring and Imaging

(15 hours per level) (3 levels)

This is a three level intensive program working with Musical Tuning forks – aluminum and stainless steel. Light, color and sound are partners within the hierarchy of the creative process. Harmonic sound, both audible and vibrational can locate and resolve energetic disharmony. This modality supports balance and is complementary to other therapeutic measures. It is a gentle and enjoyable method of work which can open up fascinating new areas of subtle work.

Categories: Continuing Education, General Interest
Duration: 30 credits
Cost: $300 + tuning fork investment

Swedish Massage 1

In this first section students will learn about the history and application of the traditional maneuvers known in Swedish massage. Students will practice these strokes on the body and learn how to create a massage routine that can be adapted to different needs.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Swedish Massage

Category: Diploma Program, General Interest, Continuing Education
Duration:  90 hours
Cost: $900

Swedish Massage 2

In the second part of Swedish technique, students will learn how to identify and locate specific tensions in the body and learn target techniques on these areas. Working with the different layers of tissue and understanding how they all work together in a multidimensional and holistic way is part of the approach, alongside an in-depth comprehension of anatomy and anatomical structures. Injury work, stretches and mobilizations will also be covered.

Case studies, and on-site clinical supervision is included at this level.

Prerequisites: Anatomy, Swedish 1

Category: Diploma Program
Duration:  190 hours
Cost:  $1490

Continuing Education Course Credits (up to 70 hours)

• Deep Tissue
• Chinese Cupping
• Lymphatic Drainage
• Prenatal Massage
• Chair Massage

This course will explore the basics of Traditional Chinese Medicine – its theory, and the through the use of tongue and pulse readings, and how that applies to case studies. Understanding a person’s internal environment will help students determine where the areas of disharmony are, giving them a snapshot of the whole person.

Categories: Continuing Education, General Interest
Duration:  60 hours
Cost:  $540

This course on the use of Chinese dietetics and herbal patented formulas is based on the refined skills and principles acquired in level 1.  Students will be able to consolidate their knowledge in a practical way through lecture and case studies, in order to understand the energy of foods, herbs and lifestyle, while enabling them to formulate suggestions for their clients.

Prerequisites:Traditional Chinese Medicine 1

Categories: Continuing Education, General Interest
Duration: 80 hours
Cost: $720