Principles of Clinical Somatic Education

This course is being offered to Licensed Massage Therapists for 8 CE hours, but is also open as a non-credit course to others wishing to learn more about Clinical Somatic Education.

• Participants will learn the fundamental principles and theory of Clinical Somatic Education, a neuromuscular re-education technique developed by Thomas Hanna. Clinical Somatic Education works with the whole person, teaching you how to make long-lasting changes to your postural habits, movement patterns, and ability to manage stress.

• We will discuss the structure and function of the nervous system, and how the nervous system responds to physical and emotional stress. You will learn how these automatic stress responses can lead to muscular habituation, postural distortion, and chronic pain.

• We will also discuss methods of client assessment and teaching methods used in Clinical Somatic Education. You will practice visual assessment and learn how to assess your clients in a way that allows you to understand the underlying cause of their tension or pain.

• You will learn self-care exercises that you can use to improve your body mechanics and stay pain-free while practicing massage. You will learn exercises for the neck, shoulders, back, and hips.

The course will consist of four hours of lecture/discussion and four hours of gentle self-care exercises, alternating an hour of each throughout the day. There will be a one-hour lunch break. Please wear comfortable, stretchy clothing and bring a yoga mat or blanket to lie on while doing the exercises.