Courses & Dates
Indian Head Massage
March 19 – 21, 2012 / 15 hours / 9am – 3pm / $300 tuition + $25 text & supplies + hst
The Indian Head Massage (IHM) or shirobhyanga, is a modality that has its roots in the healing practice of Ayurveda. This massage technique, practiced with the client seated, has a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating effect through work on the “marma” or pressure points on the head and face using various massage techniques. The massage is a half hour practice which also includes the upper arms, neck and shoulders and focuses on releasing tension in the body, as well as mental stress.
The Indian Head Massage is a practice which is beneficial in relieving headaches, stress, insomnia, “computer shoulders” and depression – it works on an energetic, emotional and physical level. IHM is a simple and effective treatment and can be incorporated into any spa practice. The oils used on the scalp are optional and are wild-crafted organic Ayurvedic oils, used traditionally to relieve stress, nourish the scalp and address issues of hair loss and dry scalp.
Instructor: Glynnis Osher
Glynnis Osher was born in South Africa and moved to New York in her 20’s as an Art Director. Glynnis was strongly drawn to the wellness path and shares a diverse 15 year background in Ayurveda, specializing in nutrition and aromatherapy. With travel to India and Nepal Glynnis has enriched and integrated her study of Ayurveda. Glynnis graduated as an Ayurvedic Practitioner from Bastyr University in 2002, and studied food practices at The Wise Earth School of Ayurveda. She has taught engaging and practical aromatherapy and self-care workshops, sharing the art of creating healing blends for daily practice. Glynnis founded The Mystic Masala in 2003 to create and share her unique Ayurvedic aromatherapy products. She now lives in Vancouver, BC where she has deepened her studies incorporating Indian Head Massage into her practice.
Introduction to Movement Patterning
Tuesday, March 27, 2012 / 10am – 5pm / 6 hours / $135 tuition + hst
The Bartenieff Movement Fundamentals and the Developmental Movement Patterns are the basis for this introductory workshop. These are movement processes which facilitate integration of the body in motion and the connection between the mind and the body.
This introduction will provide a deeper experience of embodiment and the feeling/sensation of how it is to be present in your body and mind in motion. The potential is to carry this out into your presence and actions in life.
We will explore “Yield”, the first of the five fundamental actions of the Developmental Movement Patterns, yield, push, reach, grasp and pull. Yield underlies and supports all other actions and is the sensation of the weight of the body and how it releases into gravity with awareness and facilitates all further integration. We will then investigate how movement sequences through the spine from head to tail and the connection of our limbs into our centres. You will become more aware of your habitual neuromuscular patterns and rigidities and expand your options for new ways of moving.
The approach is accessible, the process is transformative.
Instructor, Helen Walkley
As a senior teacher, somatic practitioner and Contemporary Dance Artist, Helen Walkley MFA, has taught, created and performed for 32 years in the United States, Germany, the Netherlands and Canada. She certified in Laban Movement Studies in 1985 via the Laban Institute for Movement Studies in NYC and has since studied numerous related somatic practices including Body Mind Centering, the Alexander Technique, the Feldenkrais Method, voice, meditation, yoga, shiatsu and massage. She is also a registered Somatic Movement Educator. (www.ismeta.org)
Helen loves to share her Movement Patterning work. She asks students to think with their bodies, sense with their minds and feel with their breath. She nurtures the presence of mind, attention, intention and how these manifest in motion. She is known for her forthright clarity, her refinement and depth in detail and her humour.
Deep Relaxation Therapy
Sunday, April 29, 2012 / 9:30am – 3:30pm / $145 tuition + hst
Yoga is the practice of quieting the mind ~ Patanjali
In this one-day workshop you will learn about the physiology of relaxation and then practice several methods that induce states of deep relaxation. When you are able to quite the mind-field only then you experience the depth and richness of your sadhana. If you are unable to quite your mind you will benefit from taking this workshop.
Instructor, Randy Persad
Registered massage therapist, educator, ex –pharmacist, workshop presenter and author – with over 25 years in the health care profession he brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and focused dedication in his teachings and practice. He embraces eastern vendatic practices of yoga, breath awareness and deep relaxation practices to maintain his health and spiritual balance. His most recent studies (March 2011) in yoga nidra and science of breath prompted the development of this unique workshop.
To register please contact Randy at randypersad62@gmail.com
Introduction to Fascia Treatment
May 14 – 16, 2012 / 18 hours / 9am – 4pm / $360 tuition + $15 text & supplies + hst
Pre-requisite: Spa Therapy diploma or equivalent training
The purpose of this course is to review the physiology and pathology of fascia and explore treatment techniques. The fundamental principles of fascial stucture, biotensegrity, manual skills and current research will be covered. Emphasis is placed on the application of assessment and treatment skills.
Instructor, Paula Jaspar
Paula is a Registered Massage Therapist and is a member of the College of Massage Therapists of BC, the Massage Therapy Association of BC, Doulas of North America, and Doula Services Association of BC. Paula received her diploma from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy in 1996, and has been teaching at the College since 1999. She has focused on teaching manual skills, clinical assessment, pregnancy, labour and pediatric massage. She has been invited to appear as a guest speaker at a variety of conferences about women’s health. Paula also has a private practice in Vancouver.
Deep Flow Level II Workshop Series
DEEP RELEASE: for the Low Back and Pelvis
Mon. June, 18 / 9am-4pm / 6 hours / $135 tuition + $10 text & supplies + hst
FREE THE WINGS: The Shoulder Blades and Upper Back
Tues. June 19 / 9am-4pm / 6 hours / $135 tuition + $10 text & supplies + hst
LENGTHEN & OPEN: The Neck and Chest
Wed. June 20 / 9am-4pm / 6 hours / $135 tuition + $10 text & supplies + hst
Multi-unit rates:
2 Units: $250 / 3 Units: $360 (+ text & supplies + HST)
Pre-requisite: Spa Therapy Program, Deep Flow Level I or equivalent professional training
Deep Flow is an alignment-based approach to relaxation massage which was created specifically for the VSBM Spa Therapy Program. Although these workshops build on the program curriculum, the Level II workshop units are open and accessible to anyone with equivalent professional training in massage and bodywork.
This workshop series has been divided into 3 single-day units and each unit will focus on addressing core postural imbalances within a specific area of the body. The objective of the workshops is to introduce innovative techniques and concepts that will improve the ability of the therapist to sense, pinpoint and relieve common tension patterns found in the body. The material taught is easily integrated within the context of a full-body relaxation massage. Participants will explore various approaches such as joint movement, trigger point, yoga alignment, deep tissue, fascial lines and breathwork to meet their clients’ need for deeper work in a structurally correct manner. Bio-mechanics will be revised and renewed to ensure a safe, healthy and prolonged career in massage.
The units build in increments and so it is recommended, but not mandatory, to take them in the sequence presented. Each unit completed will result in a $25 rebate towards the full 100-hour Level II Training (go to www.deepflow.ca for more information).
Instructor: Mylene Bergeron
Mylène completed her 1000-hour massage therapy certification in 1999 with the New Mexico Academy of Healing Arts in Santa Fe. She immediately submerged herself in the field and began practicing in some of B.C.’s most pristine heli-ski lodges. Her work adventures also include treating surfer’s injuries with a chiropractor in Hawaii, offering stretch and wellness workshops for Volcom, a surf company in California, and assisting the Canadian national and junior cross-country ski teams as a therapist and physical counselor.
Mylène’s experiences as an world-traveler and avid surfer have led her to develop a unique therapeutic approach to bodywork, which emphasizes and promotes physical alignment through postural, spiritual and emotional awareness. She is currently involved in teaching the physical wellness component of Rhodes Wellness College in Vancouver, and maintains a private practice in both Vancouver and Tofino, B.C.
