Esalen® Massage Module 3

Modules 3, 4 and 5 of the Esalen Massage Training can only be booked as a whole. The individual modules can be paid for separately. We will decide 4 weeks before the start of Module 3 whether the training will take place. The minimum number of participants is 8.

In Module 3, the basic techniques of Esalen massage are deepened and applied creatively, so that the movements and strokes of the massage become more and more like a meditative dance for the practitioner. Esalen massage was developed in California on the Pacific Ocean. Students learn to embody the rhythmic flow of the waves and convey this to the client in their long strokes. This invites deep relaxation, stimulating the self-healing powers and allowing overactive thoughts to be let go.

We learn about the scientific findings of research into the connection between long stroking movements and the psyche and nervous system. An important focus of learning in this block is sinking deeper into the client's tissue using highly effective deep connective tissue work techniques. In addition to working with the hands, the forearm is now also used gently and confidently. Central to this is the use of body alignment and our own gravity, as well as body mechanics on the massage table, in order to gain depth effortlessly and massage in a way that is gentle on the joints and energy-efficient.
Passive joint movements combined with deep connective tissue work give the recipient a feeling of security. These interpersonal and psychological aspects of Esalen massage transform bodywork from a craft into a healing art that touches the whole person, body and soul, and invites them on an inner journey of self-exploration.

Course content

• Deep work on the back of the body: shoulder blades, back extensors, hips and legs
• Anatomy of the deep muscle layers, pelvis and hips
• Movement sequence into the frog position (client's legs bent in prone position)
• Techniques in the frog position to improve hip and pelvic mobility
• Integration of deep work and the frog position into long stroking movements
• Advanced joint mobilisation (gentle rocking of the spine)
• Mobilisation of the thoracic spine in the supine position (upper body twist)
• Basic massage of the abdomen
• Seamless transition between different tempos and depths to meet the sensory needs of the client
• Structuring the preliminary discussion with the client
• Dealing with the inner critic
• Dealing with emotions that may be triggered in clients during the massage
  Contraindications in massage

Course objectives

• Learning new elements and experiencing them on your own body in several exercise units
• Integrating deeper techniques and more complex movements into a full-body massage sequence
• Energy-saving use of body alignment and gravity
• Ability to evaluate the condition of the client's tissue through sensory perception
• Appropriate communication, especially during deeper work on painful areas
• Analysing the client's verbal and non-verbal messages during the massage
• Improving one's own resilience through self-exploration in movement and conversation
• Understanding Esalen massage as a psychoactive massage and its holistic effect on body and mind
• Confidence in dealing with contraindications and knowing when Esalen massage is not indicated

Note

50 hours of training/further education, EMR/ASCA compliant.

Please note

The training course starts with a minimum of 8 participants who commit to modules 3-5. This allows us to ensure meaningful group dynamics and a good learning experience. We decide 4 weeks before the start of the course whether the training will take place.

What to bring

Comfortable clothing and personal writing materials

Co-Leading

Lili Imboden is co-leader for this course.

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

Further information

Esalen training overview (PDF)

More about Esalen