CE Descriptions

Class Descriptions

General Interest/Continuing Education/Electives

While some classes are offered quarterly, most are less frequent. To see our current class and event calendar, please click here.
Required and Recommended Textbooks 

ABC's of Chinese Medicine - Part A

Course Hours: 30
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
An Introduction to Chinese medicine we will go on a journey through the vast and deep landscape of Chinese medicine. This class is open to anyone, with no prerequisites. It is part of the Shiatsu Certificate program, but is relevant to anyone with an interest in natural healing. We will explore the essential theories of this tradition, which provide a conduit from ancient healing methods rooted in the rhythms of the natural world, to contemporary practice in the modern world that we inhabit. This is a lecture class, but in each class we will practice some special Qigong (movement/meditation) exercises to ground the theory in our own kinesthetic experience.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Ward

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writing materials
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Advanced Foam Rolling

Course Hours: 7.5
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Foam rolling is an effective way to stretch and even strengthen muscles, soften fascial adhesions and scarred areas or increase ROM.Ê This class is comprised of five hour-long facilitated foam rolling sessions where students learn to place and manipulate foam rollers to address specific pain, hypertonicity, trigger points and other needs
Prerequisites: Myofascial Foam Rolling
Instructor: Dixon

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Foam Roller, theraband, and mini balls. Available for purchase at OSM Bookstore prior to first class.
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Bamboo Sticks

Course Hours: 4
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Using bamboo sticks is a great way to provide relaxation or deep-tissue, full-body massage on the table, while reducing stress on your hands. The technique was specifically created to minimize strain on your body. Using bamboo sticks allows you to increase your client load, give longer sessions without fatigue, and save your thumbs and wrists from repetitive use injuries. Because the bamboo can be easily heated, it also provides a deep soothing heat. It is effortless to perform, youÕll save wear and tear on your hands, and clients will love it. tool kit included in price of class.
Prerequisites: Massage Fundamentals, Kinesiology/ Massage Lower & Upper
Instructor: Hueller

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Body Mechanic I

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:No
Description:
Body Mechanics I is designed to review OSM's core body mechanics principles and deepen our kinetic understanding, practice skill-building, and explore individual accommodations. We will practice standing and seated techniques that center safety, support, and ease as we work, and tune into our own body's role in the therapeutic process. This class will include active movement, lecture and discussion, demonstration, and practice.
Prerequisites: Massage Fundamentals or equivalent.
Instructor: Feldman

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MATERIALS TO BRING: sheets and face cradle cover (blanket if desired for receiving), oil/lotion, comfortable and flexible clothing, athletic wear recommended.
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Body Mechanics I

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:No
Description:
Body Mechanics I is designed to review OSM's core body mechanics principles and deepen our kinetic understanding, practice skill-building, and explore individual accommodations. We will practice standing and seated techniques that center safety, support, and ease as we work, and tune into our own body's role in the therapeutic process. This class will include active movement, lecture and discussion, demonstration, and practice.
Prerequisites: Massage Fundamentals or equivalent.
Instructor: Feldman

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MATERIALS TO BRING: sheets and face cradle cover (blanket if desired for receiving), oil/lotion, comfortable and flexible clothing, athletic wear recommended.
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Body-Based Trauma Relief

Course Hours: 4
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
People can be traumatized by any event (internal or external) that they perceive (consciously or unconsciously) to be life-threatening. Pain is a key event that coincides with Trauma either in a causative or correlative manner. Pain can cause trauma or Trauma can cause Pain, or they can co-exist and intermingle. The relationship is complex. Perception of trauma and pain vary with age, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status and culture and life experience.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Dixon

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Building Your Ethical Body

Course Hours: 4
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
This Ethics course provides a conceptual and physical foundation for working with the ethics of touch. The class is designed to strengthen the massage therapistÕs physical and mental resources, and provide clear strategies to build confidence and capability to deal with confusing and murky issues. It includes an overview and short practice of a variety of skill building techniques plus mindful movement exercises that strengthen practitioner boundaries and protect against harmful social/environmental influences on massage and bodywork while connecting to oneÕs inner wisdom.
Prerequisites: Comm/Ethics or LMT
Instructor: Dixon

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Craniosacral Therapy Introduction

Course Hours: 15
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Craniosacral work is a gentle, powerful form of bodywork developed by an osteopathic physician. Craniosacral techniques move the cranial and sacral bones to free restrictions in the connective tissue and central nervous system. Craniosacral bodywork is especially useful for addressing pain and dysfunction in the head, spine and pelvis. The techniques can release physical and emotional trauma throughout the body and can be performed with the client clothed. This introductory course will introduce students to the history and basic concepts of Craniosacral Massage and a basic protocol of preliminary techniques that you can practice alone or integrate into a massage session.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Dixon

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Sheets, bolster, and blanket RECOMMENDED TEXTS: Myofasical Massage and Body Mechanics and Self Care Manual, Dixon;
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Craniosacral Therapy Level One

Course Hours: 15
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Craniosacral work is a gentle, powerful form of bodywork developed by an osteopathic physician. Craniosacral techniques move the cranial and sacral bones to free restrictions in the connective tissue and central nervous system. Craniosacral bodywork is especially useful for addressing pain and dysfunction in the head, spine and pelvis. The techniques can release physical and emotional trauma throughout the body and can be performed with the client clothed. This introductory course will introduce students to the history and basic concepts of Craniosacral Massage and a basic protocol of preliminary techniques that you can practice alone or integrate into a massage session.
Prerequisites: Craniosacral Therapy Introduction
Instructor: Dixon

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Franklin Method - Muscles of Head/Neck Movement

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
With gentle movement and mental imagery, in this class we will embody the functional anatomy and relationships of the muscles that move the neck/head. Gain insights about your own neck movement as well as how you can help clients improve neck pain/headaches.
Prerequisites: None, Kines recommended, or LMT
Instructor: Wesley

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Dress for optional movement
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Franklin Method: Hip Rotators

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:No
Description:
Through physical insights using anatomical imagery, touch and movement, in this course you will get to understand the relationships and functions of the hip rotators (they're for more than just rotating!). You'll also get to experience balanced support in the pelvis and the hips and learn ways to better address it with your clients.
Prerequisites: None, Kines recommended, or LMT
Instructor: Wesley

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Franklin Method: Pelvic Bony Markings, Joints, and Arthrokinematics

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Using imagery, touch and movement, this course will delve into the functional anatomy of the bones, joints and arthrokinematics of the pelvis/hip. With emphasis on experiential, applied anatomy, this will not only bring you understanding of your own three-dimensional design, but will also provide insights to further support your clients.
Prerequisites: None, Kines recommended, or LMT
Instructor: Wesley

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Franklin Method: Thoracolumbar Fascia

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
With movement, touch and imagery, we will explore the functions of the layers of the thoracolumbar fascia while also experiencing the muscular interactions as well. This area is crucial to balanced mobility in the shoulders, back and hips and this course will help you as well as your understanding when working with your clients.
Prerequisites: None, Kines recommended, or LMT
Instructor: Wesley

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How to Help Clients Heal After Injuries

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
This class covers traumatic, repetitive stress and surgical injuries. Learn the difference between these injuries, and how to use bodywork and other tools to help our injured clients. Also covered is the emotional concerns that can arise when a person is injured, and how to help clients stay motivated while pursuing rehabilitation. Learn how massage therapists can avoid becoming injured at work, and what strategies to use if they do get injured.
Prerequisites: Massage Upper/Lower, Kinesiology Upper/Lower or LMT
Instructor: Sinclair

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Lymphatic Detox Introduction

Course Hours: 9
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Lymphatic Detox Massage maximizes the therapeutic effects of bodywork and is especially effective in reducing swelling, relieving acute and chronic pain, and detoxifying the body. Although extremely gentle and subtle the effects are potent on a physical level. In this introductory class, students become acquainted with main functions and actions of the lymphatic system, indications, contraindications and precautions. They will learn a simple protocol to drain the neck of toxins and a self-care practice to enhance detoxification and speed healing.
Prerequisites: Massage Fundamentals
Instructor: Dixon

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sheets, breast drape, no lotion or oil, pillow or bolster as needed
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Lymphatic Massage for Lower Body

Course Hours: 12
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Lymphatic Detox Massage maximizes the therapeutic effects of bodywork and is especially effective for reducing inflammation and swelling, relieving acute and chronic pain, and detoxifying the body. Although extremely gentle and subtle the effects are potent on a physical level. This class focuses on rejuvenating and detoxifying the Lower Extremities, including the abdomen. In this class, students review the protocol for the neck presented in the Lymphatic Detox Intro and continue on with lymphatic detox of the viscera in the belly, legs and feet. A simple protocol to drain the lower body of toxins is taught and students are reminded of self-care practices to enhance detoxification and speed healing - moving, stretching and breathing and the application of cold and heat therapy.
Prerequisites: Lymph Detox Intro or instr permission
Instructor: Dixon

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sheets, breast drape, no lotion or oil, pillow or bolster as needed
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Massage Basics

Course Hours: 7.5
OBMT Supervised Course:No
Description:
In this popular class, you will learn basic massage techniques for the back, neck, shoulders, hands, feet and head. You will also learn about nurturing touch and about bodywork as a healthcare tool. This is a great class to take if you are interested in massage as a career. Instructors are experienced healthcare practitioners and licensed massage therapists with extensive additional training in a variety of bodywork styles.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Smith

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2 sheets, towel, massage oil in spill-proof bottle, pillow case OR face cradle cover, blanket Please remember to have your nails trimmed short and to wear comfortable clothing. Complete disrobing is not required (sheets will be used as drapes); if you wish, you may wear a bathing suit, shorts and a sport bra for women, or similar clothing.
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Massage for End of Life Care

Course Hours: 6
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Massage therapy offers so much to people who are nearing the end of life. For many people, the end of life can bring with it fear, anxiety, loneliness, and physical discomfort. Massage therapy can be very effective in providing relief from these issues, and sharing positive experiences with people who are often unable to do many of the things that have brought them joy throughout life. In this class we will learn how to safely and effectively provide massage therapy in end of life care, and examine the role a massage therapist can play in witnessing and sharing this experience.
Prerequisites: Massage Fundamentals
Instructor: Casey

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Linens, oil/lotion. Wear comfortable clothing.
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Massage for Eye Strain and Upper Body Tension

Course Hours: 7
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Poor habits of using the eyes can create great tension and strain in the eyes, neck, and back. Causes include old ways of using the , emotional stress, outstanding vision probleeyesms or conditions, hunching over cell phones, and carrying the head far forward while using doing work such as sewing or using a computer. This chronic tension can lead to headaches and discomfort that massage alone relieves for only a short time. Although this is not a vision improvement class, many Natural Vision exercises are superb ways to learn relaxation and how to use the visual system without strain. We will practice some of these exercises and learn strategies to alleviate headaches, eyestrain, and tight muscles. The class also covers how to improve work habits including proper ergonomics. Students also learn how to use bodywork and hydrotherapy to create a "Spa for the Eyes", a deeply relaxing treatment for those with eyestrain and upper body tension." Finally, how to interview and calk to clients about these issues, and referrals to books, websites, optometrists, etc.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Sinclair

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Massage For Persons With Diabetes

Course Hours: 4
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
This course is for anyone that wants to know more about metabolic disorders, primarily diabetes mellitus & how to provide competent and appropriate bodywork to this ever-growing client population.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Mozingo Goodwin

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Myofascial Foam Rolling

Course Hours: 7.5
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Foam rolling is an effective way to stretch and even strengthen muscles, soften fascial adhesions and scarred areas or increase ROM.Ê This class is comprised of five hour-long facilitated foam rolling sessions where students learn to place and manipulate foam rollers to address specific pain, hypertonicity, trigger points and other needs.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Dixon

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Myofascial Massage - Direct Method

Course Hours: 15
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
In this course, students will learn the direct approach to the art and practice of Myofascial Massage. For each region of the body, students will learn a systematic way of applying sustained and focused pressure to achieve connective tissue release. Adaptations for specific complaints will be discussed. Communication and body mechanics are important components of the direct method and will also be practiced in class as part of the work. This class also provides a cognitive framework to allow students to understand the skills they are learning from a physiological perspective, so they can better understand their goals and describe them to massage patients.
Prerequisites: Myofascial Intro or instr permission
Instructor: Dixon

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sheets, lotion (not oil), 2 pillows Required text: Myofascial Massage (2007, Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins) by Marian Wolfe Dixon
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Neuromuscular Therapy for Head, Neck, and Thorax

Course Hours: 20
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
This class examines Neuro Muscular Techniques and related theories, including an in-depth look at how working with both anterior and posterior vagus nerves affect the body, guided by Poly Vagal Theory. You will also discuss techniques and concepts from Stanley RosenbergÕs research. Practical sessions focus on the thorax, neck, and head, with particular attention to headache relief in this introductory course.
Prerequisites: Mass-Upper Body or LMT
Instructor: McLaughlin

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Linens, 2 sets per day, King pillow case, oil or lotion
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On-Site Chair Massage I

Course Hours: 6
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
This workshop covers four basic aspects of on-site massage; application of techniques, body mechanics, professionalism, and practice development. Instruction includes the use of techniques on the head, neck, back, and shoulders with emphasis on the effects of stress and repetitive motion on areas of the upper body. Additional techniques for working the arms and hands will be demonstrated. The majority of the class time will be spent in demonstration if techniques followed by application and practice by participants working on each other with individual assistance from the instructor.
Prerequisites: Massage - Fundamentals
Instructor: Aguayo

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Two face cradle covers, massage chair if you have one. Alert instructor if bringing a massage chair.
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Pain and Inflammation

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
One in five people suffer with pain every year. One in ten people experience chronic pain every year. The annual costs of treating pain are greater than the costs of treating cancer, heart disease and diabetes combined. 43% of Americans receiving massage reported they did so for health conditions such as pain management, injury rehabilitation, migraine control, or overall wellness. 88% of consumers agree that massage can be effective in reducing pain.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Dixon

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Supplied by Instructor
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Pain and Research

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Research has enhanced the credibility of massage in the eyes of the medical community, the insurance industry, and the general public. Students will be introduced to different types of research design, learn how to locate research articles on Pain and Massage, and develop critical thinking skills to incorporate research information into an evidence-informed massage practice. Upon completion of this class, LMTÕs and students will be motivated and empowered to explore and share research on Pain and Massage with clients, colleagues, or other medical professionals (e.g., physician, ND, PT) on a health care team.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Dixon

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Supplied by Instructor
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Pain and Stress

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
One in five people suffer with pain every year. One in ten people experience chronic pain every year. The annual costs of treating pain are greater than the costs of treating cancer, heart disease and diabetes combined. 43% of Americans receiving massage reported they did so for health conditions such as pain management, injury rehabilitation, migraine control, or overall wellness. 88% of consumers agree that massage can be effective in reducing pain.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Dixon

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Supplied by Instructor
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Qigong

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
Qigong means "ENERGY WORK". A moving meditation enriched with breath and imagery, this practice expands the breath, heals the organs and connects students with Nature and their inner Selves. Beginners and Experienced qigong practitioners will benefit from this self care class. Students will learn a series that they can practice on their own to recuperate and rejuvenate from the physical, mental and emotional stresses of bodywork. Movements are easy to follow and individualized for people living with acute or chronic illness or injury.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Dixon

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Shiatsu II - Short Form (Front)

Course Hours: 30
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
In Shiatsu II, students learn the kata for the front of the body, review channel locations and TCM theory. Finally, the students practice the whole "short form" kata with a focus on developing quality of touch. Students continue to do the Dao Yin self-massage exercise.
Prerequisites: Shiatsu 1
Instructor: Ward

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blanket, sheets, bolsters Remember to wear comfortable clothing and have your nails trimmed short.
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Shiatsu Short Form - Tutorial

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
This is a private class in which the student practices on the instructor who provides detailed feedback on the studentÕs work. Following the completion of the clinic practicum, the student makes an appointment with the instructor to schedule the tutorial.
Prerequisites: Must take with Shiatsu SF Clinic.
Instructor: Ward

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Shiatsu Short Form Clinic

Course Hours: 45
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
The clinic provides students with the opportunity to practice the Shiatsu kata on the public in a supervised setting. Nineteen full-body Shiatsu massages are performed on clients over the ten-week course. This training reinforces the Shiatsu kata and develops confidence, strength and efficiency. In addition, students practice listening skills and boundary setting, and learn to modify the kata to meet individual needs and time constraints. Clinic is encouraged to be taken the term following Shiatsu II.
Prerequisites: Shiatsu II, Comm/Ethics, Path I: Palpation Skills (recomm)
Instructor: Ward

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Tai Chi for Better Balance

Course Hours: 3
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
The class is designed to strengthen the massage therapistÕs ability to use mindful and focused movement to reinforce breathing, awareness, and relaxation in body, mind, emotions, and spirit. These kinesthetic tools directly affect quality of life, time needed to heal and sense of safety and ease for therapist and indirectly for clients
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Dixon

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Thai Massage - Level I

Course Hours: 16
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
This Level I Southern-style course is extracted from the full Southern-style Kata, and provides the student with a holistic session lasting 40 to 50 minutes. This short form uses all five body positions and focuses primarily on compressions and passive Yoga stretches. The emphasis of this class is on good body mechanics; you will learn to move the client effortlessly and "heal yourself while helping those you touch." This tradition is practiced fully clothed, so please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a pillow and blanket to class. This course is certified by the Thai Healing Alliance International.
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Weitzer

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sheets, pillow, blanket, water bottle, writing materials Remember to wear loose, comfortable clothing (no blue jeans, jewelry or belts with a lot of metal) and to have your nails trimmed short. Friday evening is a free introductory session, as well as part of the class, so bring a friend! Your attendance is required Friday evening in order to receive credit for this class.
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Thai Massage - Level II

Course Hours: 30
OBMT Supervised Course:Yes
Description:
The Level II Southern-style course is the full 3-hour Southern-style Kata. Building on the material covered in the Level I course, students will learn all the points, Sen Lines (meridians) and Assisted Yoga Asanas to complete this hands-on protocol for generally balancing the principal Chakras and energy lines. Good body mechanics and the role of breath in partnership within the therapeutic encounter are emphasized. This material is covered in two separate weekends with a few weeks between to allow the student to develop comfort with the movements, etc. Practice sessions are assigned during the break. The healing that students receive during the class is substantial and is the underlying foundation of the work: heal yourself first with the benefits of yoga, as you act as a conduit for those same benefits to help the person you touch. Required text fee is included in the class tuition. This class is approved by the Thai Healing Alliance International.
Prerequisites: Thai I (2 non-consecutive weekends)
Instructor: Weitzer

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pillow, queen-size sheet/blanket, water bottle, writing materials. Remember to wear loose, comfortable clothing (no blue jeans, jewelry or belts with a lot of metal) and to have your nails trimmed short.
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