200
Hours
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Esalen® Massage 200 hr Certification Training
1st module: In this first training block, the basic techniques of Esalen® Massage are taught. After this block, students will already be able to give a full body massage, consisting mainly of the long, soothing strokes for which Esalen® Massage is so well known. From the initial consultation to a good conclusion of the massage, all the basics are taught and some details are already shown.
Understanding the philosophy of Esalen® Massage is particularly important in this part of the course. This is understood as a mindfulness practice that is oriented towards one's own presence. During the training, we use meditation, movement practice (contemplative dance), mindful yoga, and group work to develop and strengthen sensitivity, inner growth, and resilience. The classes teach how the practitioner can create a space of trust and safety in contact with the client. Within this “holding space”, the self-healing powers are activated. Inner insights, feelings, and experiences from the source of our authentic being come into flow.
2nd module: In this second training block, the basic techniques of Esalen® Massage are deepened and creatively applied so that the movements and strokes of the massage become more and more of a meditative dance for the practitioner. Esalen® Massage was developed in California on the Pacific Ocean. The students learn to embody the rhythmic flow of the waves and to convey it to the client in their long strokes. This invites deep relaxation in which the self-healing powers are stimulated and overactive thoughts can be released.
We learn about the scientific findings of research on the connection between the long stroke movement and the psyche and nervous system. An important learning focus in this block is to sink deeper into the client's tissue using highly effective deep connective tissue work techniques. In addition to working with the hands, the forearm will now also be used carefully and safely. Central to this is the use of body alignment and the body's own gravity as well as body mechanics on the massage table to effortlessly gain depth and massage in a way that is gentle on the joints and energy-efficient.
Passive joint movements combined with deep connective tissue work give the recipient a feeling of security. These human and psychological aspects of Esalen® massage transform bodywork from a craft to a healing art that touches the whole person, body, and soul, and invites them on an inner journey of self-exploration.
3rd module: In the third training block, we combine flow and depth with effortless ease and explore the various movement possibilities of a spine that loves to twist.
The twisted posture, known to many from yoga as the “twist”, offers new and surprising approaches for a playful and effective massage in typical areas of pain such as the lumbar vertebrae, hips, and shoulders. In particular, the side areas of the body, which are neglected in many massages, can be reached effortlessly.
Anatomical knowledge is taught in a playful way using illustrative examples and targeted palpation exercises to identify the various muscle groups and bony structures. Communication skills are continuously practiced and refined in class. Active listening skills are encouraged and the art of responding to the client's current needs in each massage. We learned to use fingers, palms, a soft fist, and forearms adapted to the sensitivity and body structure of our client.
Professional ethics are an important part of this teaching block. The implications of asymmetry within the client-practitioner relationship will be discussed together.
4th module: In this final module of training to become an Esalen® Massage Practitioner, we draw on the fullness of what we have learned so far, supported by the safe and held space of the group field. We practice connecting our intuition, our creativity, and our knowledge with our heart - and our heart with our hands. The transition from feeling to doing will be explored so that each individual massage can develop into a special art form with its own signature. We will get to know the concept of unwinding and how such processes can be integrated into a massage as an expression of self-regulation.
An important focus of this course will be the treatment of special populations such as the elderly, pain patients, and pregnant women, as well as the limitations and contraindications. We will learn massage in the lateral position as a valuable tool. Detailed techniques on different areas of the body will complete the repertoire.
Exercises to train presence allow the students to remain attentively connected with the client before, during, and after the massage without losing themselves in the process. We learn to perform massages within a defined time limit in an energetically clear and comprehensive way in order to prepare ourselves for our practice. Part of this module will deal with the legal situation for opening and running a massage practice.
