The term holistic is becoming increasingly popular when it comes to being applied to modern medicine. It is usually taken to mean providing an all-encompassing approach to treatment, looking at the mental state of any patient in addition to their physical state.
In relation to massage therapy, all massage techniques could be considered to be holistic because they involve physically stimulating the body and relaxing the mind rather than just prescribing medication. If you’re interested in massage or in how holistic massage takes an even more in-depth approach, keep reading and we’ll explain all in this guide.
The Science Behind the Treatment
It is believed that the mind plays a greater role in the overall health of all humans than some will admit. The theory behind holistic massage is that the body stores a great deal of information surrounding the condition and health of each individual – and if this information source can be tapped into – a range of non-invasive treatments are possible which circumvent the tried and tested route of simply prescribing more drugs.
Holistic massage therapy might involve:
- A consultation with the patient before any physical massage is commenced. Each patient will usually be asked whether they have any desired outcome for the treatment which provides a window of knowledge for the masseuse.
- The information gleaned from this consultation then sets the basis for the massage treatment with the masseuse concentrating on certain aspects and areas of the body as the key to providing effective treatment.
If for example, a patient was suffering from shoulder pain, directly performing massage therapy on the shoulder wouldn’t be the first course of action. It would instead be to ascertain the behavioural or psychological trigger that contributed to the shoulder pain and address that first.
Training in Holistic Massage
As this new way of treating patients is starting to catch on, there are more training providers that are offering courses around the country. Massage courses in London can provide students with the qualifications and training they require to become fully fledged holistic massage practitioners. The courses are available to students with all experience levels and are designed to take any student from a beginner to an expert in the field of holistic massage.
Each course will vary by its length as well as its syllabus which is why we suggest that you seek feedback from other students who have completed their training. It’s also a good idea to find out how successful they have been in finding employment post qualification.
Some of the likely modules to be found on your syllabus include;
- An overview of the most common skin types and body types as well as the issues with posture that most people suffer from.
- An overview of what the holistic approach to massage entails.
- How to look after yourself as a massage therapist; ensuring that your posture and hands are kept in good health /condition.
The cost of all courses will vary so we suggest making sure that you’re receiving value for money by shopping around and discussing price when seeking out feedback from satisfied former students.
