Come discover the healing power of touch...by learning touch technologies that are NOT traditional massage - rather hands-on healing techniques known as bodywork.
One of the major distinctions between bodywork and massage is that the bodywork techniques are done while the client is full clothed, rather than having their client disrobing to the level of their comfort, as is the case with massage therapy. The other major difference is that in the state of Arizona Bodywork Practitioners practicing a clothed modality such as Reflexology, Tui Na, Zen Shiatsu or Polarity do not have to be licensed as a Massage Therapist.
If you are drawn to the healing arts, and yet feel Massage Therapy isn't exactly your calling, consider one of the Advanced Bodywork Practitioner specialties offered at Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA). There are core science classes that are required (open the PDF to review the REQUIRED core classes) and then you decide what specialty you have a passion for: Reflexology, one of the Asian Arts or Polarity.
Our mission is to help you discover YOUR gifts... one of the best ways is for you to try a variety of our classes as a Guest until YOU determine which healing modalities really sparks a passion for you: Reflexology, Polarity, Cranial Sacral Unwinding, Tui Na or Zen Shiatsu.
Reflexology, as taught at SWIHA, is a very comprehensive focus, based on the theory the body is made of many holograms (located in the hands, feet, ears, face, and abdomen) reflecting the greater whole. Working on the reflective hologram will create release and healing in the whole - body and mind.
Polarity is a complete holistic system designed by Dr. Randolf Stone, taught at SWIHA under the direction of Gary Strauss. It is a synthesis of ancient Eastern and alternative medicine health care ideas centered on the concept of a Human Energy Field. Using touch, verbal interaction, exercise, nutrition and other methods, practitioners of Polarity Therapy seek to balance and restore the natural flow of energy which, it is claimed, flows from the universe and into the body through the chakras. The aim is to re-establish "balance". In addition to polarity bodywork, specific polarity yoga exercises, counseling/positive thinking, and nutritional recommendations are used to enhance vitality.
Cranial Sacral Unwinding is a bodywork technique where a practitioner uses a featherweight touch to test restrictions of the cranial system. Students learn to feel a mild cranial rhythm or pulse along the cranial sutures. When there is tension or stress at certain points in the body, the membranes are being pulled; therefore, the body may be out of synchronization, causing ill health. Cranial Sacral Therapy practitioners attempt to balance the life force energy within the body. It is relaxing, safe and effective. Cranial sacral therapy may heal or alleviate numerous conditions including migraines, chronic fatigue, motor coordination impairments, stress, tension, and orthopedic problems.
Tui Na is a hands-on-body treatment using acupressure for the purpose of bringing the body into balance, taught by world renowned teacher, Joel Siegnor. The principles being balanced are the eight principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The practitioner may brush, knead, roll/press and rub the areas between each of the joints (known as the eight gates) to open the body's defensive (wei) chi and get the energy moving in both the meridians and the muscles. The practitioner can then use range of motion, traction, or the stimulation of acupressure points to treat both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as many non-musculoskeletal conditions.
Zen Shiatsu, under the direction of Master Practitioner, Lyn Matthews, is a form of bodywork administered by thumbs, fingers, palms, elbows, feet and knees. Pressure is applied to all parts of the body along specific pathways known as meridians. It is understood this technique stimulates the natural healing powers of the body, wherefore symptoms of disease lessen and vitality is regained.
Students who attend the program full-time can be completed in as little as eleven months, or earning up to 38.25 credits. This program will prepare graduates for stimulating careers in various settings, including day spas, salons, and physician offices. We have found the majority of the graduates from 600-hour Advanced Bodywork Practitioner program choose to start their own holistic health healing practice. This program is eligible for Federal Financial aide for those who qualify.
We invite you to contact us today to assist you on your destined path.
