The intent of this body of work is to allow the student opportunities to increase creativity, spontaneity and refinement of existing skills, while exploring the many aspects of this growing profession. These classes are used as an opportunity to practice blending the learned techniques, as well as a time to introduce the students to a variety of other massage modalities, ranging from Chair Massage to Infant Massage to massaging the elderly. Ultimately, a holistic approach of this nature is aimed at supporting individuals in experientially knowing themselves and their work more fully. This process of discovery in self-knowledge will often lead to greater self-responsibility, happiness and peace.
Integrated massage, also known as eclectic massage, is a therapeutic method that combines the principles of massage and bodywork. Like other somatic disciplines, integrated massage incorporates physical, emotional, and spiritual elements. In other words, it supports a holistic mind-body approach to wellness rather than drawing on either a physiological or environmental viewpoint.
Integrated massage involves the application of different hands-on techniques to promote physiological changes. This is achieved by primarily focusing on the fascial system, or the body’s connective tissue. As a somatic therapy, integrated massage often coincides with guided movement and other bodywork techniques to help stimulate atrophied muscles and release compressed soft tissue.
