Courses and Workshops

For a list of the courses and workshops CURRENTLY being given please see the upcoming page. This is a description of ALL the courses and workshops we offer throughout the year. 

This introductory course will cover the theory and practise of acupressure in general and the Eight Extraordinary Meridians in particular. By the end of this course, students will be able to choose an appropriate extraordinary meridian to use in sessions with a client, while addressing the underlying emotional causes of imbalance. Prerequisite: TCM1

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

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.

By outlining health as the body’s collective response to any experience, students will learn from a wide spectrum of tools, such as posture correction, stress management, and how everything is interrelated. This course will overview the 10 major systems in the body, its anatomical parts and functions. By encouraging balance, students will formulate cohesive treatment plans to address the client’s presenting symptoms, bringing them into optimal health.

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. Prerequisite: Anatomy 1

*Only available for Acupressure Diploma students

Business aspects include the ‘how to’s in setting up a practice (registering your name, taxation, budgeting, book keeping, independent contracts, etc.) as well as an introduction to marketing and establishing an online presence (social media, ad posts, blogs, optimization ++).

Chair massage is a portable session performed fully clothed in seated position that targets ailments of the upper body. It was introduced into the workforce in the early 1990’s and is now seen throughout festivals, clinics and promotional events. Prerequisite: Massage Therapy Certificate

A Champi is an invigorating scalp massage designed to stimulate and refresh the individual. The word shampoo comes from 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. We will learn the basics of Ayurveda to determine the Dosha and proper oils and treatment for the client.

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.

In this class, you will dive deeper into the techniques you have learned in Craniosacral Therapy 1. By accessing and balancing the motility of the individual cranial bones will have a direct impact into the intra-cranial system. Prerequisite: Craniosacral 1

In this course, you will learn more tools to scan and release stuck energy cysts within the body. We also look at in-depth lesion patterns within the cranium that can affect symptomatic issues within the body on a physical, emotional and energetic level. We will learn to release the structures that can affect the “avenue of expression” (Hyoid, Zygomatic, Maxilla, Mandible, Vomer bones) and self-help intra-oral techniques. Prerequisites: Craniosacral 1, Craniosacral 2

Learn the anatomy and physiology of the pathways of these nerves and it’s connections. Through a hands-on approach and visualization you will access, activate and balance these nerves, and learn to treat dysfunctions of the nerves.

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.

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. Prerequisite: Swedish Level I

In this one day workshop, we will cover the basics of facial massage techniques, including: acupressure, lymphatic drainage, cupping and guasha. This can be offered alone or integrated in your massage or esthetic practice. Some product knowledge, mixing serums and the steps to facial cleaning and analysis will be included in this training.
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.

“ Gua ” means “to scrape” and “ sha ” is the stagnation or blockage in the body that is the cause of the pain or illness. Gua Sha is also referred to as scraping, spooning or coining due to method and tools used to perform the massage. Gua sha is a natural, alternative therapy that involves scraping your skin with a massage tool to improve your circulation. This ancient Chinese healing technique may offer a unique approach to better health, addressing conditions like chronic and acute pain, digestive disorders, migraines, or reproductive issues. Prerequisite: practicing massage therapists or those with bodywork experience.

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.
Learn about the wild and cultivated herbs that grow across Canada through experiential and guided / online herb walks. Discover the many healing properties of plants and trees as we study them using ALL our senses, as well as the importance of spending time in nature and parasympathetic mode. Part of this course is live, online theory, in addition to pre-recorded content with herbalist Monica Giacomin as she explores the herbs that grow abundantly in Montreal in the spring and autumn seasons.

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 learn how to enhance wellness by living actively, eating wisely, and nourishing themselves with herbs, particularly as preventative medicine. Prerequisite: herbology 1 or some herbal experience

This course continues to explore the vast array, and actions, of medicinal 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. Starting with the importance of digestion and the microbiome, and wending our way through all the major systems of the body, including the most recently discovered endocannabinoid system, Monica Giacomin will weave the art and science of medicinal herbs into a broadening view of the plant kingdom’s fascinating abilities to support and create wellness for our students, their families and their clients. **Students who have taken Herb 1, or who have a strong herbal background (Naturopaths, 30+ hours of Herb studies elsewhere) can join Herb 3 without taking Herb 2. They must show proficiency via an interview. Prerequisite: herbology 1 or some herbal experience

In this introductory course, students will will explore topics such as: the Canada Food Guide and nutrient standards; impact of environment, agriculture, preservation and cooking methods on nutrient quality; concepts of whole, local, seasonal, processed foods; introduction to microbiome; overview of nutrients and where to find them; overview of traditional diets; research project (presentation) of modern diets as a framework for assessing food trends in relation to personal needs; food diary assignment (self) linking nutrients to food eaten; overview of digestion, how to optimize, effects of stress and lifestyle on digestive capacity. [includes energetic qualities of food, as per anthroposophy and TCM]

Basic biology concepts including taxonomy and biogeochemical cycles; cellular anatomy incl. plant vs animal cells, function of organelles; basics of biochemistry incl. energy and matter, how to read the periodic table, atoms, molecules, compounds (with emphasis on those key to nutrition), bond types; inorganic vs organic matter incl. structure and properties of water, salts, acid/base, macronutrients and nucleic acids; cellular physiology (transport, division and concepts of epigenetics, protein synthesis). [includes energetic/spiritual perspectives on bodily function (how microcosm reflects macrocosm), creativity as a way of integrating knowledge]

How to research and discern published content on the web, scientific journals, studies and abstracts.
Holistic Nutrition is about the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Finding balance between all these areas is the key for achieving the optimal state of health and happiness.

Concepts of nutritional sciences and studies; functions of nutrients in detail; optimizing intake and absorption through whole foods; changing needs of the individual through the life cycles (infancy to longevity); basic overview of energy metabolism and proper hydration during physical activity; food diary assignment assessing adequate hydration and nutrient intake & quality (self); life cycle assignments as first steps of providing relevant information/support to a case/client; introduction to flavour’s role in physiology and how to enhance it. Prerequisite: HN1, Cellular Biology, Physiology

Symptoms defined; introduction to health assessment methods; introduction to (and ongoing discussion of) interviewing methods; evaluation of symptoms relating to nutrient deficiencies, stimulant and heavy metal excesses, digestive function and dysbiosis, endocrine function, organ/systems, PMS, allergies, hypoglycemia, candidiasis (using Nutri-Body Questionnaire by David Rowland); how to address suspected deficiencies/imbalances through whole food, supplements, lifestyle habits; 10 case studies* using the NBQ, food diary (or general daily intake), creating a nutritional program for each; presentation of one case for group discussion; overview of digestive cleanses and their use with specific excesses (heavy metals, parasites); research paper on one supplement or superfood as relates to one case. [introduction to emotional/spiritual perspective of symptoms; energetic-mental-emotional connection to particular organs and systems, incl. TCM perspective and chakras] Prerequisite: HN1, Cellular Biology, HN2, Physiology

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

Your constitution (Dosha) influences your physiology, your likes and dislikes, your tendencies and habits, your mental and emotional character, and your vulnerabilities toward imbalance and “dis-ease”. Ayurveda has many diets and food combining suggestions to help maximize the Agni, or digestive fire. Learning about your constitution and state of balance will help you determine which dietary choices are right for you.
Polarity is a holistic healing system. It works the 4 levels of being. Body, mind, emotions and spirit. Having its roots in Ayurveda, Chinese Medicine, and Hermetic Science. “Learn the theory and principles of Polarity Therapy with 2 energy protocols that give a full head to toe bodywork energetic session of an hour to an hour and a half.”
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.
We will cover the basic principles of Swedish Massage, including strokes, body leverage and draping. 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.

Learn the anatomy and physiology of the abdominal organ system and its connections. Along with hands-on listening and treatment techniques for the overall health of the organs and the body. You will learn how to bring back balance and functionality of the system.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a type of massage based on preliminary evidence which is hypothesized to encourage the natural drainage of the lymph, which carries waste products away from the tissues back toward the heart. This 6 week course will cover the full body MLD routine, theory and an in depth review of the lymphatic system and how it interacts with inflammation, edema and the immune system. Prerequisite: Swedish 1, Physiology

Reflexology is an ancient system whose roots trace back to Egypt, India and China. It is based on the holographic image of the body that is reflected through the soles of the feet, hands and ears. In this course, students will learn the basic principles of TCM, meridians and an in depth understanding of western physiology and pathology through foot reflexology / zone theory. In using these principles, students will be able to use these overlapping systems to help restore vitality and balance to all of the body systems, organs, glands and parts.

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: only available to acupressure and shiatsu students

Development of knowledge of nutritional therapeutic approaches to key pathologies in each anatomical system (immune, mental-emotional conditions, GI, musculo-skeletal, nervous, integumentary, endocrine, respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary and reproductive) ; deepen the understanding of the food-health relationship; gain confidence in using food for therapeutic purposes (nutritherapy)

Learn about Polarity Therapy – the 4 levels of Self, the oval fields, working the diaphragms and the 5 elements (Ayurveda). We will also explore general balancing using energetic protocols, zones and patterns, along with treatment protocols developed by Dr. Stone – chakra, star and spinal treatments.
Learn the protocols and patterns used for the 5 elements and their individual uses and we dive deeper into Polarity Therapy and its uses in different pathologies.
Integration of bodywork and massage using Polarity Therapy protocols, both physical and energetic, which address blockages in the upper body and hips.
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.
Standards of practice set out the legal and professional basis for the practice of nutritherapy. We will look at the how to lawfully practice in Canada and the various provinces, issues of ethics and how we can keep records.
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.

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.

In this final level of study, students will be able to integrate all of their knowledge and put it into practice in our advanced student clinics. They will also learn more advanced stretches, mobilizations, transitions and the barefoot shiatsu kata.
Prerequisite: Shiatsu 1, Shiatsu 2

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.
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.
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.

This advanced training combines the integrative skills learnt in Sound Therapy (levels 1-3) with the concepts of meridian theory, specifically the Extraordinary Meridians. Prerequisites: Sound Therapy 1, 2 and 3

Our birth date contains specific to us guidance. With intention we can gain insights into our soul’s journey, our familial relationship, our gifts and our challenges as well as potential solutions to issues. It is a system both simple and profound; we include practice time, questions and answer periods, discussions, demonstrations and meditations.
Sports massage focuses on muscles relevant to the event. For athletes who train continuously, the goal is to enhance endurance, lessen the chance of injury and shorten the time needed to recover from an event. Sports Massage may also be used for injury rehabilitation. This course will explore the mindset and needs of a specific market- including athletes, sports teams, and fitness people. A deeper look at anatomy, pathologies and sports related injuries, including on-site and supervised clinics will be part of this curriculum.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Myofascial pain syndromes are among the fastest growing problems that physicians, osteopaths, acupuncturists, and physical, occupational, and massage therapists encounter in their patients. In this workshop we have organized vast amounts of information on treating myofascial pain into an easy to understand and put to practice. we will examine a wide range of pain patterns and present evaluation and palpation techniques for reducing trigger points–and thereby alleviating pain.
Learn how to utilize your body leverage and work with pressure, compressions, stretches and mobilizations in this training. The basic principles of shiatsu will be learnt and how to apply them on a table as well as integrating into a full session. Students will learn how to read the energy and enhance flow through the meridians.
The school will open its doors offering subsidized sessions within the community, giving students a chance to practice their technique in a professional setting, observe the intake process and learn how to formulate a preventative plan over the span of 4 weeks. This will be supervised by the teacher while providing support and confidence for the students.
We will open the doors to the public and students will make a client profile, assessment and create a care plan using the SOAP method. It will be supervised by the teacher who will provide minimal intervention. At the end of each day, students will meet as a group to go over the clinic cases and receive feedback from both peers and teacher. Holistic supervision will be introduced where students track their internal process, becoming of any transference or counter-transfer-ence that may occur during a session.
Provides support and guidance for clinical practice and acquiring clinical experience as a nutritional counsellor. Techniques for taking, analysing, presenting case studies, includes active listening and use of food diary and symptom questionnaire; forming hypotheses about etiology. Case studies as a method of research and evidence building. 10 case studies to prepare and present in class. [includes hyptotheses about the emotional-spiritual connections to the the physical conditions and solutions]

Need more help to decide which courses to take?

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Disclaimer: All content and material is for educational purposes only. Although certain aspects of these courses may be therapeutic, they do not constitute or replace therapy. All results are hypothetical, and the School/Teachers/Speakers are not responsible for any claims or outcomes as a result of information shared.

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