Esalen® Massage Module 2 with Perry Holloman

Module 2 of 5 teaches the basic techniques of Esalen massage. After completing this module, students will be able to give a full-body massage consisting primarily of the long, soothing strokes for which Esalen massage is so well known. From the initial consultation to the successful conclusion of the massage, all the basics are taught and some details are demonstrated.

Understanding the philosophy of Esalen massage is particularly important in this part of the course. It is understood as a mindfulness practice that is oriented towards one's own presence. During the training, we use meditation, free dance, mindful yoga, and group work to develop and strengthen sensitivity, inner growth, and resilience. The course teaches practitioners how to create a space of trust and safety in their contact with clients. Within this “holding space,” the self-healing powers are activated. Inner insights, feelings, and experiences from the source of our authentic being begin to flow.

Course content

• Long stroking movements on the front and back of the body in different variations
• Three-dimensional work on the shoulder girdle, chest, and lower back
• Initial basic work in the neck area
• Introduction to joint mobilization: rotations, joint guidance, and gentle rocking
• Introduction to hand and foot massage
• Energetically careful conclusion of the massage
• Anatomy of the relevant structures
• Philosophy of Esalen massage: mindfulness, presence, contact, holding space
• The four levels of contact in Esalen massage
• Ergonomically safe stance and flow of movement during massage
• Training awareness of your own body through meditation and movement
• The origins and history of Esalen massage

Course objectives

• Learning a complete 60-90 minute full-body massage
• Long strokes on the back and front of the body
• Incorporating three-dimensional techniques into the long strokes
• Seamless transitions from simple detailed work to long strokes
• Simple application of joint mobilization of the extremities
• Confident touch and sensitive verbal and nonverbal contact
• Integration of pauses into the massage sequence
• Experience of Esalen massage on your own body in several practice sessions
• Resource work to support your own presence
• Understanding of the history and fundamentals of Esalen massage philosophy
• Improvement of communication skills through “I” messages and empathic listening
• Creating a supportive space
• Respectful treatment of the client as the basis of the client-practitioner relationship

Prerequisites

Module 1 (Introductory Course in Esalen Massage).

Module 2 can also be attended as a continuing education course without committing to the entire training program (after attending Module 1). To complete the Esalen Massage Practitioner training, you can then participate in Modules 3, 4, and 5 (only bookable as a whole).

Note

35 hours of training/continuing education, EMR/ASCA compliant. EMBA (Esalen® Massage & Bodywork Association) recognized.

What to bring

Comfortable clothing and personal writing materials.

The exact timetable can be downloaded here: Timetable Module 2 Esalen (PDF)

Further information

Esalen Massage training overview (PDF).