The curriculum is designed to give students a solid foundation in the fundamentals of massage and bodywork therapy, supported by an in-depth understanding of the sciences behind massage: anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology.
FUNDAMENTAL THEORY & PRACTICE OF MASSAGE AND BODYWORK THERAPY 1 & 2 - 286 HOURS
In both of these courses students are taught the history, theory and practice of various modalities of massage and bodywork therapy. By the end of the program, students will have the ability to give professional quality massages in a variety of settings while addressing a wide range of conditions.
- The first semester gives students a basic introduction to Swedish massage and will include: the history of massage; the effects, benefits, indications, and contraindications of massage, hygiene, sanitation, and safety; body mechanics, therapist self-care, how to touch, and joint movements. In the 2nd half of the semester students will take their Swedish skills to a new level in the context of deep tissue massage, chair massage, pre-natal/infant/geriatric massage, sports massage/hydrotherapy and troubleshooting.
- The 2nd semester begins with an introduction to the clinical techniques of trigger point therapy and myofascial massage. Here students will learn to confidently address various pathologies of the body. Then students are introduced to the eastern massage theory and techniques of Shiatsu and Thai massage as well as reflexology, Ayurvedic theory & treatments, and Craniosacral bodywork. Students end the semester practicing integrative massage techniques as well as a written final. Students will learn and practice yoga techniques and spa treatments for self-care to rejuvenate & prevent burnout.
WESTERN SCIENCES FOR MASSAGE - 152 HOURS
In the science courses students explore the structure, function, and pathology (40 hours) of every system in the human body from a Western perspective, with particular emphasis on the musculoskeletal system. The courses will parallel the Fundamental Theory & Practice of Massage and Bodywork Therapy and provide students with crucial information to understand and apply the massage techniques they are learning. These courses are highly experiential; our students enjoy learning anatomy, physiology, pathology and kinesiology with the use of lecture, discussion, palpation, yoga and movement, and case studies. Western Science for massage will also be covered in the second semester Yoga course (12 hours) in which students will become more familiar with common musculoskeletal pathologies and the yoga postures which relieve them.
ENERGETIC ANATOMY - 60 HOURS
This subject will be covered in three courses: Fundamentals of Energy Anatomy (32 hours); Mindfulness (16 hours); and Yoga (12 hours). In the Fundamentals of Energy Anatomy, students will learn about the energetic models of human anatomy, including: the meridian system, acupressure points, the chakra system, and subtle energy layers of the body. Students will gain first hand experience of these energy systems through yoga, meditation, and palpation. In Mindfulness, students explore. the intersection of thoughts/beliefs and energy and how management of that intersection affects our ability to ground and center. In Yoga, students will learn practical techniques to create, change, and maintain energetic boundaries appropriate in the massage profession.
SOMATIC PSYCHOLOGY - 24 HOURS
This creative and informative course highlights elements of body-centered psychology including dynamics of client/therapist relationship, communication skills, and boundary functions.
BUSINESS PRACTICES & MARKETING - 28 HOURS
This part of the program prepares students for the business aspects of a career in massage therapy. Topics include: record keeping, marketing strategies, job search, taxes, contracts, professional organizations, strategic planning and goal setting.
SUPERVISED STUDENT CLINIC - 100 HOURS
Throughout each semester the school opens its doors to the public for our supervised student massage clinic. This gives students an opportunity to test their skills in a supportive clinical environment.
PROFESSIONAL ETHICS - 10 HOURS & NC RULES AND LAWS - 6 HOURS
These classes are dedicated to professional ethics and the NC rules and laws governing massage and bodywork therapists.
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS - 5 HOURS
Students arrange on their own to spend two days sharing their massage therapy skills with
the community of Asheville. Students elect either to participate in teacher-led volunteer projects
or get permission for a supervised community outreach project of their own design.
OPENING DAY - 4 HOURS
We dedicate these hours to commencement of this important period of education and self discovery.
