Anatomy is the study of the structure of the body - from cellular structure, to the organization of organs, tissues, and systems. Particular attention will be paid to the muscular and skeletal structures.

Physiology is the study of the systems of the body (muscular, skeletal, endocrine, cardiovascular, pulmonary, respiratory, lymphatic, urinary, digestive, nervous, reproductive) and how they work together to sustain life.

Pathology is the study of disease and dysfunction. Particular attention will be paid to common disorders and conditions one might encountered in a massage practice.

Kinesiology is the study of human structure and function and their relationship to movement.

Swedish techniques are the basis of the contemporary Western approach to massage. This course includes draping, benefits and contraindications, body mechanics, palpation, and basic strokes (effleurage, petrissage, friction, vibration). Students will learn to be precise and thorough in the application of soft tissue massage, while cultivating mindfulness to create a safe, nurturing environment for the client.

This course introduces the foundational knowledge and skills needed to identify and release tension patterns in connective tissue. Emphasis will be placed on the application of a slow, sensitive and at the same time decisive form of deep touch. Deep Tissue Massage is applied with an understanding of the structural relationships of the major body segments and helps the body's structure to find an improved postural balance.

Topics include postural analysis, regional assessment, different types of strokes and strategies to release holding patterns, and the biomechanics of working deeply with minimal effort and safety.

Deep Flow is an innovative component of the Spa Therapy Program specifically designed to assist students to integrate all of the different techniques covered in the program. The objectives are to help develop intuition around touch, to connect with the integrity of the body, and to create smooth transitions from one technique to another. Students will be encouraged to bring in personal style and originality in order to offer a unique experience to each client and to make their massage work as an art of their own.

Sports massage is used to increase circulation and flexibility in active individuals. It can be applied pre-event and post-event to decrease lactic acid build up, stiffness, and pain, and help prevent injury.

Joint Release is a gentle form of bodywork that facilitates the release of deep-seated physical and mental holding patterns. The method is characterized by gentle shaking, stretching and rhythmic rocking movements, which re-educate the body to experience the possibility of effortless movement.

Joint Release can be easily combined with other methods of bodywork, such as Deep Tissue work or Swedish massage.

Aromatherapy is the art and science of using the extracted essential oils of aromatic botanicals to enhance health and beauty. Essential oils have many different therapeutic properties and can be used in baths, compresses, inhalations, as perfume, in First Aid, for household cleaning and disinfecting, and in conjunction with massage. This course focuses on the properties of 15 - 20 of the most common essential oils. Students learn to blend the oils and use case studies to examine how Aromatherapy can be used to address the needs of individual clients.

Reflexology is an ancient healing art that involves stimulating the acupressure points of the feet, hands, and ears that correspond to every body part, including organs and glands. The practice of modern Reflexology is rooted in the ancient societies of Egypt, India and China where evidence suggests that the tradition has existed for 5000 years. Reflexology may help the body to re-establish equilibrium in order to achieve optimum health via stress reduction and improved circulation. Students looking to further their certification may consider joining the Reflexology Association of Canada in British Columbia upon completion of the course.

Hydrotherapy is the use of hot and cold water, ice, and steam to facilitate the healing process. Students will learn the theory and practice of hydrotherapy techniques including exfoliations and wraps.

Ayurveda, the Science of Life, is an ancient system of holistic health and medicine from India that is still used today and is gaining popularity in North America. Ayurveda is both preventative and curative, emphasizing the knowledge of self-healing and individual balance. This course is an introduction to the principles of Ayurveda, the doshas, and Ayurvedic substances. Students will learn several treatments that are common spa applications.

Hot Stone massage is one of the most popular spa treatments today. This course will teach students the principles, precautions, and proper use of the heated stones. Use of cold stones is also covered.

Shiatsu is a contemporary therapy with its roots in Oriental traditional medicine. Shiatsu literally means "finger pressure". Natural body weight is used when pressure is applied on meridians (energy channels) and tsubo (pressure points). In addition to pressure itself, Shiatsu involves gentle stretch and manipulation techniques.

Many of the bodywork and massage techniques explored in the Spa Therapy Program can address chronic tension and emotional trauma that may be stored in the body in blocked or congested areas. The body often reveals what the mind can not, and through the deep and/or subtle release of bodywork, pent up emotions, trauma, and blocked memories can arise. Students will examine both the physiological effects of bodywork and massage and the psycho-somatic connection of body, mind, and spirit.

This course covers a variety of topics including personal and professional goals, communications and boundaries, mental toughness and optimum performance.

This course includes a spa industry overview, career expectations and opportunities, resumes and interview skills, and business planning.

This is an exploration of common ethical dilemmas which are relavant to bodywork and massage.

A critical skill in sustaining a long and enjoyable practice as a Spa Therapist or Bodyworker is the ability to take care of yourself. A series of seminars will present various topics and methods related to your own health and longevity. You will learn the art of Self Care in order to be successful in your practice, increase the longevity of your career and best of all enjoy the work that you do.

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Students will receive a Level A certification in CPR.