Massage Therapy Course 🌿

Introduction to Swedish Massage

• History & evolution of Swedish Massage
• Swedish Massage Principles & Theories
• Benefits for physical, mental & emotional health

Anatomy Basics

• Introduction to the human body and key muscles 
• Overview of the musculoskeletal system
• Focus on the muscles commonly treated in Swedish Massage 

Posture & Body Mechanics

• Proper posture to prevent injury
• Hand, wrist & arm positioning techniques
• Developing a comfortable & efficient massage flow

The 5 Classic Massage Strokes

Refining the Basic Strokes

• Review & refine the 5 classic strokes with a focus on rhythm, pressure & smooth transitions
• Adjusting the strokes based on client feedback & comfort
• Using different hand placements for varied effects
   

Posture, Body Mechanics & Energy Flow

• Importance of posture for the therapist to prevent injury
• How body mechanics contribute to energy flow & client relaxation
• Working ergonomically: how to use the therapist’s body rather than just the hands

Full Body Swedish Massage 

Advanced Techniques (Deep Tissue Techniques, Myofascial Release, Trigger Point Therapy)
 

Adapting Techniques for Specific Needs

• Understanding how to adjust pressure & strokes
• Techniques for addressing muscle tension, stress relief & improving circulation

Client Consultation

• Thorough consultation (medical history, client goals & customizing sessions)
• Communicating clients' comfort, pressure preference & areas of tension
• Contraindications & situations where massage is modified or avoided

Muscle Groups & Functions

• Common problem areas in massage: back, shoulders, neck, legs, and feet
• Techniques for addressing tension in specific muscle groups
• Addressing upper back vs. lower back tension and the muscles involved
   

Massage Techniques for Pain & Tension Relief

• Understanding the causes of muscle stiffness & pain
• How massage can help alleviate tension, spasms & stiffness
• Combining techniques for a balanced therapeutic approach

Advanced Massage Techniques 

• Working deeper into muscles without causing discomfort or pain
• Combining massage with stretching
• Techniques for tension release in the shoulders, hips & neck area
   

Massage for Specific Conditions

• Common conditions (chronic tension, headaches, postural imbalance)  
• Adjusting techniques for clients with specific needs, such as pregnancy, fibromyalgia or elderly clients

Ethical Considerations in Massage Therapy 

Massage for Stress Relief & Relaxation

• Creating a relaxing experience for clients
• Balance the nervous system & promote relaxation
• Managing client expectations regarding the massage experience
   

Refining Client Communication 

• How to give clients a positive, supportive massage experience
• Assessing comfort, feedback during the session & addressing concerns

Chronic Conditions & Tailored Swedish Massage 

Review & Recap 

• Reviewing all Swedish massage techniques, body mechanics & ethical principles
• Final Q&A and troubleshooting any remaining questions
• Preparing for the practical exam
  

Final Exam – Practical and Theory 

• Practical Exam: Perform a full-body Swedish massage on a client.
• Theory Exam: Covering the key principles, anatomy, & techniques of Swedish massage

Feedback and Certification 

Leading to a National Certificate (NC2) in Massage Therapy