Continuing Education Class Schedule for August, September and October

These classes may be taken as continuing education or as part of our 250-, 500- and 720-hour programs.   

SEPTEMBER CLASSES

NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY - Pelvis (20 hrs) Fri eve, Sep 10 (6 pm – 10 pm), Sat & Sun, Sep. 11 & 12 (9 am – 6 pm). An in-depth look at the pelvis and its mechanisms. Discover why it is often the center of other body pain and dysfunction. Learn the secrets of unlocking it and assist your clients to improved function. Understand the stages of Rehabilitation and how to enforce them. This is the first in a series of NMT classes that will allow you to offer very effective structural bodywork to your clients. Prerequisite: 100 hrs massage training. Instructor: Venice Sullivan Cost: $280 Prepay: 2-Wk $270, 4-Wk $260.

MASSAGE THERAPIST PROGRAM (100 hrs). Weekend Program. Sats and Suns (9am-6pm) Sep 11 & 12, 18 & 19. 25 & 26, Oct 2 & 3, 9 & 10, 16  & 17. Instructors: Keesha Standley, Julie Reynolds, Tim Holt, Greg Williams. Total Cost: $1,025. Class description on the programs page of this website.
  

CRANIAL SACRAL BALANCING 1 (30 hrs), Mon & Tues, Sep 13 & 14, 20 & 21 (9 am – 5:30 pm). The cranial sacral system is primarily the fibrous covering around the brain and spine, and the fluid within this covering. This system is where our human intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual bodies interconnect most closely. The purpose of Cranial Sacral Balancing (a system of bodywork pioneered by Dr. John Upledger over the past 26 years) is to restore optimal balance to these four bodies. The method of Cranial Sacral Balancing is subtle, gentle, and completely pain-free: freeing the movement of cranial sacral fluid by feeling for and releasing areas of holding in the cranial sacral sheath and in the bones of the skull. In this course, you’ll learn to feel the cranial sacral rhythm (distinct from the rhythms of pulse and breath), to induce a "still point", experience distinct movement in the individuals parts of the cranium, and release tension from the entire system. The benefits of this work include the disappearance of headaches, spontaneous deep relaxation, release of old injuries, and significant lightening of moods and emotions. It is subtle work with amazing results. Prerequisite: None. Instructors: Keesha Standley & Jim Gilkeson Cost: $430 Prepay: 2-Wk $410, 4-Wk $399.

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE – Advanced Access (12 hrs) Wed & Thurs, Sep 15 & 16 (9 am – 4 pm). This workshop will focus on deep tissue massage methods in the side lying position. There are many clients who are unable to lie in the prone or supine position due to chronic lumbar pain, pregnancy, respiratory problems, or chronic sinus congestion. The easy access to deeper musculature which the side lying position affords also makes this position a first choice for orthopedic massage and sports massage. Having confidence working with this position is essential for more therapeutic bodywork. We will teach proper bolstering and draping. We will teach massage techniques for the neck, shoulder, lumbar region, and the extremities. Some of these will be with oil/lotion and some will be dry techniques. Prerequisite: 100 hrs of massage training. Instructor: Tim Holt Cost: $180 Prepay: 2-Wk $170, 4-Wk $160.
  

HOT STONE MASSAGE (20 hrs.) Wed, Thu, Sep 22, 23 (10 am – 6 pm) & Fri, 24, (10 am – 5 pm). Stone Massage is becoming increasingly popular in spas and resorts, as well as in private practice. It provides the deep therapeutic benefits of heat therapy. It is an excellent modality for work with injury recovery as well as offering deeper stress-relieving benefits, bringing relaxation massage to new levels. Stone Massage provides a rest for the therapist’s hands while delivering the full benefits of deeper massage to the client with minimal discomfort. This class will cover methods of heating, using and caring for your stones. Contraindications, benefits, prone and supine applications, for a one hour and one and a half hour session will be taught. Prerequisite: 100 hrs of massage training. Instructor: Lea Wildflower Cost: $280 Prepay: 2-Wk $270, 4-Wk $260.
 

NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY - Postural Analysis (8 hrs) Sat, Sep. 25 (9 am-6 pm). Learn what the body’s position in space can tell you. Use your eyes to truly understand where the body pain is coming from so you can treat the cause and not the symptom. You will not only learn how to see the position, but also to determine which muscles are being utilized. This class is a “must” for anyone doing clinical massage or any kind of structural bodywork. Prerequisite: None. Instructor: Venice Sullivan Cost: $110 Prepay: 2-Wk $104, 4-Wk $99.

“Massage for People Living with Cancer©” (24 hrs) Wed & Thurs, Sept 29 & 30, Fri Oct 1 (10 am-5 pm) & Sat, Oct 2 (9 am-3 pm) (NCBTMB approved for CEU hours) Comfort-oriented massage or touch can be administered to people with cancer regardless of the severity of their condition, and at any stage in the cancer experience. Topics covered include: understanding metastasis - why is massage not contraindicated; adaptations that must be made for clients who have undergone or are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery; massage protocol for patients at risk for lymphedema; exploration and processing of participants’ personal experience and relationship to cancer; intake procedures; and most importantly, opening the heart to those with serious illness. This class was originated by Gayle MacDonald. Prerequisite: 100 hrs of massage training & some experience with clients recommended or with instructor’s permission. Instructor: Isabel Adkins Cost: $360 Prepay: 3-Wk $345 (Materials fee: $25, to be paid to instructor).

OCTOBER CLASSES

ONCOLOGY MASSAGE 1 "Blending East with West TM" (22 hrs). Sun, Oct 3 (1 pm to 7 pm) Mon & Tues Oct 4 & 5 (9 am - 6 pm). Class will allow body therapists to enhance their work with cancer patients by integrating Reflexology and Acupressure skills with the Massage for People Living with Cancer© protocol in regard to pressure adjustments, sites that need to be avoided and client positioning. While looking at the body from an Eastern Medicine point of view, practitioners will learn: how to support the internal organs during disease, treatment and recovery; how to address symptoms more directly by understanding how the organs "network"; how to mitigate the side effects of treatment and symptoms of disease, such as low blood counts, nausea, fatigue, neuropathy, weakness in the limbs, and GI tract disorders; how to strengthen the immune system; the importance of Ayurvedic oils for cancer cure; the psychological aspects of living with a potentially fatal disease and how that may impact the immune system. We will learn how to utilize these skills by providing massages to cancer patients under supervision of the instructor as the culminating activity of the class. Please Note: That on the first day of class there will be no meal break, so please eat before coming to class and bring snacks. Prerequisite: 100 hrs of massage training plus Massage for "People Living with Cancer©"or equivalent Society for Oncology Massage approved class, or with instructor's permission. Instructor: Isabel Adkins Cost: $330 Prepay: 3-Wk $315 (Materials fee: $16, to be paid to instructor).

ONCOLOGY MASSAGE 2 “Integrating Complimentary Therapies ^TM” (40 hrs). Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon & Tues, Oct 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12 (9 am – 6 pm). In this class, we will enhance our protocol for cancer patients, integrating the reflexology and back shu bladder points learned in Oncology 1 with acupressure points along seven of the major meridians: spleen, liver, stomach, kidney, lung, conception vessel, large intestine and pericardium. Students will also learn how to use hot stone therapy and specific oils on these acupressure points taking into account side effects of chemotherapy, radiation therapy and symptoms of the disease. Prerequisite: Oncology Massage 1. Instructor: Isabel Adkins Cost: $600 Prepay: 3-Wk $575 (Materials fee: $25. To be paid to instructor).

NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY - Neck & Upper Torso (20 hrs.) Fri eve, Oct 15 (6 pm-10 pm) Sat & Sun, Oct 16 & 17 (9 am – 6pm). Structural evaluation and neuromuscular technique to release the Upper Torso and Cervical area will be taught. Assess how one part of the body will continue to cause problems in other areas. Highly specific work to fully release each area worked on. Spine, intercostals, abdominal and chest and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, will be addressed. Prerequisite: 100 hrs of massage training. Instructor: Venice Sullivan Cost: $280 Prepay: 2-Wk $270, 4-Wk $260. Please note date change.

PRINCIPLES OF NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY (8 hrs) Sat, Oct 23 (9AM-6PM). This is a theory class. It covers the science and philosophy of neuromuscular therapy allowing an understanding of how and why it works so effectively. It covers the physiological principals of ischemia, trigger points, nerve compression/entrapment, postural distortion and dysfunctional biomechanics. Prerequisite: None. Instructor: Venice Sullivan Cost: $110 Prepay: 2-Wk $104, 4-Wk $99.

SPA TREATMENTS (Fall Applications) (20 hrs), Fri eve, Oct 22 (6 pm – 10 pm), Sat & Sun, Oct 23 & 24 (9 am – 6 pm). Take showerless services to a new level by learning to combine treatments for maximum effectiveness. In this class you will learn to add-on several treatments to your massage or facial to give your clients something extra special while boosting your income. Treatments to me learned will include a Clay or mud masque for the back, Aromatherapy hydration wrap add on to a massage, All-in-one treatment combining a body scrub and wrap in one lovely treatment, hand and foot therapy wrap, and warm oil scalp massage treatment. Treatment/supply costs for this class are $25.00. Additional supplies needed include: 2 XL Bath towels (35’ x 65’ minimum), 2 sheet sets, 32 small towels or wash cloths, 1 twin size of larger blanket. Bath sheets, sheets and blanket should be dark colored. A take home bundle can be purchased for $65.00 from the instructor. Prerequisite: None. Instructor: Jeannine Hewitt Cost: $280 Prepay: 2-Wk $270, 4-Wk $260. (plus $25 product cost).

NOVEMBER CLASSES

EAST-WEST MASSAGE (12 hrs) Wed & Thu, Nov 3 & 4 (9am – 4pm). In this class, you will learn how to combine techniques from Eastern bodywork such as Japanese Shiatsu and Thai Massage with the fundamental techniques of Western, oil/lotion-based massage therapy. Learn to effectively blend deeper oil strokes with pressure point application and stretches. The variety of techniques allows for a more three dimensional massage, opening joints as well as muscle tissue. Clients will enjoy the movement. Therapists will enjoy the variety of effective approaches for the same issue. Prerequisite: 100 hours of massage training. Instructor: Tim Holt Cost: $180 Prepay: 2-Wk $170, 4-Wk $160

NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY (Shoulder & Extremities) (20 hrs.) Fri eve, Nov 5 (6 pm-10 pm) Sat & Sun, Nov 6 & 7 (9 am – 6pm). Structural evaluation and neuromuscular technique will be taught to release such conditions as thoracic outlet syndrome, frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints. You will learn to release all of the muscles involved and their pain patterns and begin rehabilitation. Also covered will be the forearms, hands, legs, and feet. Prerequisite: 100 hrs of massage training. Instructor: Venice Sullivan Cost: $280 Prepay: 2-Wk $270, 4-Wk $260.

CRANIAL SACRAL BALANCING – Headaches and TMJ (30 hrs) Mon & Tue, Nov 8 & 9, 15 & 16 (9am – 5:30 pm). This course adds to the foundation built in Cranial Sacral Balancing 1. The work includes expanded techniques for the sphenoid and temporal bones, mouth, and eyes. The focus is on learning to move with the flow of the receivers body, allowing release to take place with remarkable ease. In this non-doing space, doors to inner dimensions open, expansion becomes effortless, and the body can heal itself. Prerequisite: Cranial Sacral Balancing 1. Instructor: Keesha Standley Cost: $430 Prepay: 2-Wk $410, 4-Wk $399.

SWEDISH HOT STONE MASSAGE (8 hrs) Wed, Nov, 10 (9 a.m. – 6 p.m.) Using hot stones in a full body Swedish massage takes clients to a deeply relaxed state and induces a profound level of stress release that is greater than massage alone. Using Hot Stones provides relief for the therapist’s hands, decreasing the possibility of injury. In this class, we will apply Swedish massage techniques with hot stones to give a deeply relaxing, soothing full body treatment. Therapist can use this method as a standalone one hour treatment or to warm up muscles for deeper work. Equipment, set up, safety, and proper body mechanics will be covered. Prerequisite: 100 hrs of massage training. Instructor: Lea Wildflower Cost: $110 Prepay: 2-Wk $104, 4-Wk $99.

CHAIR MASSAGE (12 hrs) Thurs & Fri, Nov 11 & 12 (9am -4 pm). This workshop prepares the massage therapist to utilize seated massage as an integral part of their practice. We focus on practice building, marketing, and the use of chair massage for community service. The class will cover the use of seated that are effective through clothing. We examine some of the current models of massage chairs available. Students choreograph 5-, 15-, and 25- minute chair massage sessions that become the basis of their form. Indications and contraindications will be discussed. Prerequisite: None. Instructor: Greg Williams Cost: $180 Prepay: 2-Wk $170, 4-Wk $160.

AROMATHERAPY FOR THE CHAKRAS (12 hrs) Sat & Sun, Nov 13 & 14 (9am – 4 pm). This two day class opens your understanding on how to integrate chakra balancing into your practice and daily life. You will learn effective techniques for sensing, activating, opening, clearing and understanding the energies associated with each chakra. We will explore and experience release techniques like unwinding, winding, toning, breathing, visualization, movement, hands on and hands off. We will work though a full session pattern of techniques and symbols. Wear comfortable clothes and bring sheets. Prerequisite: None. Instructor: Rebecca Lavadia Cost: $180 Prepay: 2-Wk $170, 4-Wk $160 plus ($25 material fees to be paid to instructor. Plus optional purchase of Chakra Kit available).

ASIAN FOOT TREATMENTS (8 hrs) Wed, Nov 17 (9am – 6pm) This class takes some of the best Asian spa foot care treatments and creates a signature treatment that will be deeply therapeutic and relaxing for your clients. This class will feature a soak for the feet to relax and clean, a light lotion massage sequence, followed by more deeply therapeutic massage applied with an Asian Reflexology tool. The legs and back may be included depending on whether you apply the treatment on the bodywork floor mat or a reflexology chair. Prerequisite: None. Instructor: Tim Holt Cost: $110 Prepay: 2-Wk $104, 4-Wk $99.

MASSAGE TOOL METHODS (Extra Elbows and Thumbs) (6 hrs) Thurs Nov 18 (9am – 4pm) Massage tools are a great way to save your hands, gain deep access to chronic tension, and provide new and interesting treatments for your practice. In this class we will use a variety of powerful and effective massage tools, such as the Massage Stone, Chinese Gua Sha sticks, and Asian reflexology sticks. We will begin by working on our own bodies. We will explore the sensitive touch of the hand and learn to apply appropriate treatment with a tool. Some of the tools will also be for sale. Prerequisite: 100 hrs of massage training. Instructor: Tim Holt Cost: $90 Prepay: 2-Wk $85, 4-Wk $80.

OPENING TO THE MYSTERY: Caring for Clients at the End of Life (21 hrs) Fri, Sat & Sun, Nov 19, 20 & 21 (9am – 5pm) I have created this class expressly to support experienced oncology massage therapists who want to be of greater service to their clients living with cancer and particularly to those clients who are facing the end of their lives. The class will be a combination of scientific and factual information, interpersonal exercises, self-exploration and a variety of work that will combine all of these. This class will not include traditional “hands-on” practice with massage techniques, but rather it will focus on what we can do (and be, for that matter) with our hearts and minds and souls that can make the work of our hands infinitely more valuable and connected as we work with our clients through the last parts of their lives. Prerequisite: 70 hours of Oncology Massage Training and 1 year of clinical massage practice with Clients who have Cancer or Therapists with fewer hours of training but years of clinical experience may be approved by instructor: lauren@lighthold.org. Guest Instructor: Lauren Cates Cost: $480 Prepay: $450 (if paid before Oct 1).

ANATOMY-Muscles and Bones (50 hrs) Sats and Suns, Nov 20, 21, Dec 4, 5 (9am - 6 pm) Instructor: Larry Munn. Cost: $470, Prepay: 2-Wk $450, 4-Wk $425.

SHIATSU FOR THE MASSAGE TABLE (24 hrs) Mon, Tue & Wed, Nov, 22, 23 & 24 (9 am – 6 pm). This three-day class will adapt the Shiatsu sequence for the body mechanics of the massage table. We will work through clothing, but Shiatsu is easy to integrate into other forms of table massage, working through the drape. Shiatsu will deepen the therapeutic value of any bodywork treatment. In this class, you will learn a 60-minute Shiatsu treatment. What you need to bring: Sheets, face cradle cover, and a pillow, note-taking materials, comfortable loose clothing. Prerequisite: None Instructor: Tim Holt Cost: $330 Prepay: 2-Wk $320, 4-Wk $310.

TRIGGER POINT THERAPY (20 hrs) Fri eve, Nov 26 (6 pm – 10 pm) Sat & Sun, Nov, 27 &28 (9 am – 6 pm).Trigger Point Therapy is a great addition to any bodyworker’s toolbox of techniques. In this course you will learn what Trigger Points are, how they are formed, the effect they have on a muscle, their many ways of referring and where they are located in muscles. Lots of hands-on time will be spent with learning how to accurately palpate and identify TPs. With this information you will learn proper ways of applying specific types of pressure and several ways of stretching to complete the release of the TPs. We will focus on the locations of TPs in the major postural muscles in the client’s body. Strong emphasis will be placed on proper application of technique, client communication, indications and contraindications. Prerequisite: 100 hours of massage training. Instructor: Greg Williams Cost: $280 Prepay: 2-Wk $270, 4-Wk $260.

CRANIAL SACRAL BALANCING – Unwinding (Non-Forcing and Releasing Techniques) (30 hrs) Mon, Tue, Wed & Thurs, Nov, 29, 30, Dec 1 & 2 (9am – 5:30pm) This class takes the gentle hands-on skills you have learned in Cranial Sacral Balancing I or Energy-Active Cranial Sacral and applies them to work with regions of the body that hold stress and injury. This is useful, for example, in working with the kinds of musculoskeletal injuries you will encounter frequently as a massage therapist. We work in a non-forcing way with the body’s natural intelligence and self-correcting mechanisms. Major topics of the workshop are: unwinding legs and feet, arms and hands, head and neck; releasing held energy from the body; understanding the potential for working with trauma. Prerequisite: Cranial Sacral Balancing 1 or Energy Active Cranial Sacral Balancing. Instructor: Jim Gilkeson Cost: $430 Prepay: 2-Wk $410, 4-Wk $399.

 

  

    

For classes scheduled beyond these classes please click here or see current class schedule link on home page.