Massage Courses

The S.E.E.D. Institute offers a range of courses and treatments in holistic health care and healing.

Deep Tissue Massage Advanced Massage
What do you do when your clients want deeper massage work than you feel confident and competent to give? This advanced massage techniques workshop will provide you with the necessary tools to develop your deep tissue massage skills.

Course contents:

Your safety first: couch height, proper body positioning and posture
Working efficiently with reinforced fingers and thumbs
For deeper work – advanced massage techniques using forearms and elbows
Client positioning: prone, supine and side-lying work
How to use your couch for support to make your work easier
Focus will be on the back, neck, shoulders and gluteal area.
On this deep tissue course, you will be taught how to work safely and effectively using all these different tools so that you can incorporate them into your own massage style. You will also be shown how varying your client’s positioning on the couch will allow you to access certain muscle groups better, making your treatments even more effective.

Throughout the day, you will be given 4 individual demonstrations of techniques and have plenty of opportunity between them to practice these techniques in your own time. It’s a fun and active day run in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Suitable for anyone with Swedish massage skills.

Click for details of our Sports Massage Diploma Course also taught by Tatina

Holistic Medical Massage for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. 1 day. £85+VAT Don't lose your clients to injury! With our computer oriented society, large numbers of people are experiencing the discomfort of carpal tunnel and repetitive strain. Through these advanced techniques you can move your clients out of pain and prevent needless surgery. You will learn: a powerful protocol to treat wrist and arm pain using advanced techniques such as trigger point therapy, soft tissue release, myofascial release, stretching and Eastern massage approaches. This protocol is specific to the wrist and forearm and this material is not covered in other Holistic Medical Massage workshops. to safely treat pain conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, tennis elbow and golfers elbow. relevant theory including causes of the above pathologies. applied anatomy and physiology and the palpation skills to identify relevant musculature, bones and subtle energies. contraindications. efficient and graceful body mechanics.

Holistic Medical Massage for Neck and Shoulder Pain. 2 days. £185+VAT Neck and shoulder pain is one of the most common complaints you will find in your clients. These techniques will allow you to understand and effectively treat the causes of acute and chronic neck pain. Even clients who are not in pain will love you for these techniques! You will learn: a powerful protocol to treat all neck pain incorporating a range of advanced techniques such as trigger point therapy, soft tissue release, myofascial release, stretching and Eastern massage approaches. This protocol is specific to the neck and shoulder and this material is not covered in other Holistic Medical Massage workshops. to safely treat common neck and shoulder pain conditions, such as whiplash, torticollis, cervical strain, headaches and migraines. relevant theory including causes of the above pathologies. applied anatomy and physiology and the palpation skills to identify relevant musculature, bones and subtle energies. to work deeply and effectively in a side-lying position. contraindications. efficient and graceful body mechanics.

Holistic Medical Massage Foundation Workshop. 3 days. £295+VAT
This exciting 3-day workshop introduces you to a variety of cutting edge advanced techniques designed to be quickly and effectively incorporated into your existing massage work.

You will gain a theoretical and practical overview of sophisticated bodywork skills including:

Trigger point therapy
Myofascial release
Stretching techniques
Soft tissue release
Craniosacral therapy
Eastern massage approaches
You will learn:

to work with passion, power and creativity.
to effectively use your body according to the principles of tai chi
to reduce the possibility of strain and injury to yourself.
to positively move your clients out of pain and build your practise into the success you want it to be!

Each subsequent workshop in the series will expand and build on your knowledge and practise of the above skills

Holistic Medical Massage for Low Back Pain 2 days. £185.00+VAT
Low back pain is the leading cause of disability and pain in the UK.

This workshop will teach you highly effective techniques to move your clients out of pain with in 1-6 sessions.
You will learn:

a powerful protocol to treat all back pain incorporating a range of advanced techniques such as trigger point therapy, soft tissue release, myofascial release, stretching and Eastern massage approaches. This protocol is specific to the low back and this material is not covered in other Holistic Medical Massage workshops.

to safely treat common low back pain, and conditions such as sciatica, herniated ("slipped") disc and piriformis syndrome.

relevant theory including causes of low back pathologies.

Applied anatomy and physiology, and the palpation skills to enable you to identify relevant musculature, bones and subtle energies.

contraindications.

efficient body mechanics to protect you and your career.

Massage Mastery:"Massaging with Confidence"
Seated Chair Massage / Office Massage
FHT Approved Certificate
1 Day Course - 27th September 2008

Total £95.00

(Discounted full payment before
30th Aug 08)


£135.00
Thereafter

27th September 08

Using Portable Desk Top Message Head Rests - Easier to carry and less expensive

HOT & COLD STONE MASSAGE

Massage Mastery:"Massaging with Confidence"
Hot & Cold Stone Massage Diploma
FHT Approved Diploma
Starting 9th October 2008

Total £195.00

(Discounted full payment before
9th Sept 08)


£235.00
Thereafter

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE DIPLOMA

Massage Mastery:"Massaging with Confidence"
Deep Tissue Massage Diploma
FHT Approved Diploma
Starting 3rd Oct 2008

Total £195.00
Price is for both workshops
(Discounted full payment before
3rd Sep 08)

£235.00
Thereafter

Ear Candles Preston Therapy Centre Certificate (suitable for insurance purposes)
This ancient form of treatment has been used by the Native American people and is a mild natural therapy that is believed to have a number of health benefits particularly sinus problems rhinitis irritation of the ear headaches migraine hayfever and many more E.N.T related problems. The lit candle produces a warming and soothing effect which helps balance the body and promotes an overall cleansing of the body system. Course Content General introduction & history of ear candles Benefits of treatment Contra-indications Aftercare advice Ingredients/make-up of candles Anatomy of the ear Practical Entry Requirements Body/Swedish/Aromatherapy Massage Certificate Course duration Short Day Costs Course fee £80.00 Candles may be purchased from Preston Therapy Centre Credit card bookings available by telephone. Easy payment terms available ask for details. 10% discount on courses and full day workshops for additional training.

Remedial Massage

Stone Therapy
Course Content

benefits/ contra- indications of stone therapy
caring and cleaning hot and cold stones
caring and cleaning stone heater
consultation techniques for stone therapy
treatment planning
stone placing, pressure in use
checking the temperatures
stone therapy massage sequence- for body and face
use in - energising,balancing,lymphatic drainage, minor strains and sprains, tension, relaxation
understanding of thermogenic and cryogenics
techniques of placing stones- tucking,tapping etc
chakras, meridians
types fo stones, mineral content, properties
correct handling of stones in massage treatments

Remedial Massage (VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Remedial Massage) This advanced course is designed to develop massage techniques that will be effective for specific conditions. Course Content Relevant anatomy & physiology Stretching neuromuscular & deep tissue techniques Contra indications & contra-actions Consultation & record keeping Treatment programmes Patient care & after care advice Health & safety Case studies Home study Entry Requirements Massage Diploma Course duration Two days plus assessment Costs Course fee £320.00 VTCT course registration fee. £33.00 VTCT VR02/74 + course registration fee £35.00 VTCT student registration fee £15.00 (Payable only if required.) Credit card bookings available by telephone. Easy payment terms available ask for details. 10% discount on courses and full day workshops for additional training.

Sports Massage (VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy) This advanced course is designed to develop massage techniques that will be effective for specific conditions. Course Content Relevant anatomy & physiology Pre post corrective and preventative massage. Stretching neuromuscular and deep tissue techniques Contra indications & contra-actions Consultation & record keeping Treatment programmes Patient care & after care advice Health & safety Case studies Home study Entry Requirements Body Massage/Swedish Massage Certificate & First Aid.
Course duration Three days plus assessment Costs Course fee £430.00 VTCT course registration fee.
£33.00 VTCT VR02/74 + course registration fee
£35.00 VTCT student registration fee
£15.00 (Payable only if required.) Credit card bookings available by telephone. Easy payment terms available ask for details. 10% discount on courses and full day workshops for additional training.

Sports Massage may be applied to any region of the body specifically or generally in a routine. The term is all embracing and because it has such a wide application it is best understood in terms of the outcomes required from the treatment. The main objective is to provide a framework for the specific application of massage relating to sports pursuits. The massage covers preventative pre-event post event and corrective massage. whilst the actual movements are similar to general massage they are applied individually as is necessary and to the specific areas of the body that are concerned. For runners and cyclists the massage of legs during intervals in sports events is now normal as is preventative maintenance massage for footballers and rugby players. The same techniques are used for members of the general public with problems caused by exercising. you will look to understand the way in which joints function during physical activities the stresses caused by movements in various sporting and recreational activities and how these can be countered by sports massage. The student will also learn about the different types of muscle and skeletal injuries and conditions that can occur during physical activity and how to minimise them. To recognise the various musculo-skeletal injuries and conditions affecting clients. To be able to prescribe a treatment plan for massage self massage exercise and techniques to minimise stress and further or recurring injuries in the future. This is a thorough course which requires alot of dedication commitment and home study. How long is the course? The course is run over 12 days 9.30- 5pm OPTION ONE: WEEKENDS: A Saturday and Sunday every 4 weeks with a final assessment day 2 to 3 weeks after final day of studies. OPTION TWO: MIDWEEK: 6 mid week 2 days sessions over 12 weeks with a final assessment day 2 to 3 weeks after the final day of studies . With option of adding on one and a half day VTCT strapping and taping unit. What are the entry requirements? There are no entry requirements apart from a sound understanding of written and spoken English. You will also be required to have a short interview either in person or over the telephone. You will be have to cover the mandatory requirement of VTCT health and safety diploma the D1120 or to have taken under the last 3 years a VR02/VR74 diploma in health safety security and employments standards. Also you will be required to have completed a diploma in Anatomy & Physiology and body massage. (these could all be completed through the Summer 2008 or from September 2008 ready for start date of courses in September 2008 and January 2009)either with VTCT or and equivalent recognised qualification that can be approved and APL by VTCT. You will also be required to hold an up todate First Aid certificate or be willing to take this whilst on the course. Course Content: Massage techniques- deep tissue cross-fibre linear stretching and releasing plus other techniques environmental constraints- clothed unclothed seated standing lying signs and symptoms assessment treatments purposes aftercare assessment of range of movement - acceptable norms muscle contraction tissue flexibility Advanced anatomy & Physiology with emphasis on skeletal joints and muscular systems design individual treatment plans treatment of various soft tissue injuries recognising the stage of the injury working along side other professionals massage vibrators heat and cold treatments plus more OPTIONAL unit Strapping and Tapping the main objectives of this unit is to provide a safe and effective framework for protecting and supporting rehabilitation of shoulders and limbs following activity injuries and strapping in accord with medical advice. client needs- relief for tendon strains sprains support protection compression post-medical treatment etc areas- shoulders arms and legs assessment procedures materials- this will cover a wide variety of products home care How is the course taught? The course is taught through a series of lectures and tutorials utilising visual learning aids an interactive smart board and an internet link. Students will also practise treatments upon one another during the practical sessions. There will be two additional practical sessions where students will perform treatments on members of the public. All practical sessions are taught using organic products sourced from a local perfumer www.arcania-apothecary.co.uk. What equipment is required for the course? Students will be required to wear the college uniform of a plain black t-shirt (no logos) or black tunic top black trousers and flat black clean shoes (no open toes). Students will need to have access to a computer for typing assignments and will need an internet connection with their own email address to enable the distribution of course notes and importantly for the submission of assignments. Students will also need pens notepaper and coloured pencils unless they are working directly onto a laptop. Additionally students will be required to purchase Four recommended course books. If taking the optional strapping and taping unit you will be required to purchase a kit for use when covering work experience. thsi can be purchased from the centre. However if you are working in a club that can provide you with the range materials that you require this will cut the cost for you. How is the course assessed? The course is assessed by: Completed case studies. This consists of treating five clients four times who have a specific sporting injury/training programme. Each with full consultations and written notes of progress excerise recommended and the final outcome. Self-assessment of your performance is an important and integral part of this process. 25 hours of work experience with a sports club sports event.(strapping and taping will also have to be demonstrated with photo evidence) A Practical Assessment day( optional strapping and taping unit will require 3 techniques to be demonstrated within your client treatments) completed portfolio and assessment book Continuous assessment throughout the course in the form of written assignments Two tutorials Is there any home study? Independent study is an essential part of this course and you will be required to do practical and theoretical home study between college sessions. What qualifications will I gain? Upon successful completion of the course candidates will be awarded the VTCT Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy and the Health Academics in Sports Massage Therapy Diploma. How much does the course cost? The cost of the course including handouts and student workbook is £860 with an additional assessment day fee of £50 VTCT assessment book £26 and one in a life VTCT registration fee of £15. This course can be paid in three instalments please discuss with centre. OPTIONAL STRAPPING AND TAPING UNIT £150 plus VTCT assessment book Course dates 2008/2009: This exciting course will be starting from September 2008 Please make enquiries to book your places as these courses are anticipated to fill up fast. Maximum 10 students per course. Option one- From September 2008 Option Two: From January 2009


DOES NOT INCLUDE STRAPPING + £150

Level 2 Certificate in Thermal Auricular Therapy



The Certificate formalises the traditional techniques of using ear candles therapeutically. As such it makes the basic techniques, updates by research, available to all without adherence to specific manufacturers. The Certificate includes the techniques to be used with candles, massaging the head and face to promote the effects of ear candling and how to advice the client on homecare.

In addition, the effects of ear candling process are included and sufficient anatomy & physiology to be able to explain these effects. All health and safety aspects of use are also included.



If this unit is taken as a single unit and not part of a whole qualification, you must have achieved the following units either in the last 3 years ( and achieve APL)or either pass along side the study of ear candling certificate or as home study before. We do suggest that as best practise it is better that these units have been passed before the start of the course. Please see for more information.



unit VRO2- Support health, Safety and Security in the Workplace
Unit VR74 - Support Employment Standards


Course content:

History of Ear Candling and use of ear candles
risk assessment, health and safety aspects of ear candling

consultation techniques for ear candling
the benefits fo ear candling
the contra-indications of ear candling
the contra- actions of ear candling
related anatomy & physiology for ear candling
the application of ear candles
the composition of ear candles and different makes available
features of ear candles
face massage for ear candling
how to read the results of residue left in candle and the effects
aftercare advice
protocols of working with children
marketing/costing

Course description:
Remedial massage is a system of manipulation of the soft tissues of the body with the hands. Remedial massage is the principal method of treating musculo-skeletal problems; the benefits include improved circulation and helping to break down scar tissue. The qualification requires acting within the limits of medical advice to provide, a remedial service for stress reduction, relief of muscle tension, improved joint mobility and the acceleration of healing.

Course contents:
- Health and Safety
- Contra-indications and Contra-actions
- Connective Tissue Techniques
- Neuromuscular Techniques
- Muscle Energy Techniques
- Adaptation of treatments to individual client needs

Diploma in Aromatherapy

Course description:
This is a comprehensive basic qualification covering the selection and blending of essential oils whilst providing Aromatherapy massage. This is a major international qualification in its field, which requires the students to have an underpinning knowledge of 30 essential and 5 carrier oils.

Course contents:
- Use of 30 essential oils
- Use of 5 carrier oils
- Aromatherapy techniques
- Physiological effects of oils
- Effective use of the oils for conditions
- Danger of overdosing on oils
- Contra-indications and Contra-actions
- Health and safety

Ear Candling

Course description:
This qualification enables existing holistic therapists to carry out safe and professional therapeutic ear candle treatments. This course covers both practical and theory aspects of treatment. Ear candling is a traditional cleansing therapy of the Hopi Indians and is helpful for problems related to the ear and head, including sinusitis, earache, excessive ear wax and headaches.

Course contents:
- History of ear candling
- Anatomy of the ear and head
- Review of the lymphatic system
- How to conduct a safe and effective treatment
- Analysis of candle contents
- Massage techniques
- Physiological and psychological effects of treatment
- Contra-indications and contra-actions
- Aftercare advice
- Ear care advice

Level 3 certificate in Stone Therapy

This technique uses specific types of stones at different temperatures (generally basalt stones are used with hot temperatures and marble for cold stone work) in contact with the skin in order to increase the effects of massage with the aim of improving relaxation and creating balance within the body therefore improving the client's sense of well-being.

Course contents:
- Uses, effects and benefits of hot and cold
- History of massage with stones
- Contra-indications and contra-actions
- Safe and effective massage techniques
- Safe use of stones at different temperatures
- Energy work with the stones
- Case studies
- Health and Safety

VTCT Sports Massage

This qualification is recognised by the SMA Sports Massage Association.

Course contents:
- Sports massage techniques
- Origin and insertion of muscles
- Palpation skills
- Joint assessments of the knee, hip, ankle, shoulder
- Soft tissue damage and the repair process
- Neuromuscular techniques
- The safe application of audio sonic and paraffin wax
- Contra-indications and contra-actions
- Health and Safety

Surface Anatomy and Palpatory Techniques

This workshop is ideally suited to anyone who is recently qualified in Massage Therapy and is of particular benefit to those considering further training in Advanced Sports Related or Remedial Techniques.

During this interactive day you will learn palpation skills toexamine the skeletal structure soft tissues skin and surface markings both visually and by touch.
The workshop will cover the following:

- Surface anatomy of the knee, ankle, spine, arm and
shoulder
- Palpation of acute and chronic conditions
- Surface and deep palpation

Deep Tissue Techniques

This workshop is designed to give you more techniques for identifying and treating back and shoulder conditions and expanding your massage techniques.


- Review of the structures and muscles of the back and shoulder
- The physical examination
- Palpatory techniques to define problem areas
- Deep tissue massage techniques for the back and shoulders
- Frictions, neuromuscular, trigger points
- Common conditions affecting the back and shoulders
- Prevention of injury
- Basic exercise for clients

Massage Techniques Enhancement
The course will cover techniques such as:

- Good posture
- Basic neuromuscular techniques
- Forearm use
- Finger and thumb frictions
- Petrissage application and technique
- Heel of hand work

Training OverviewLevel 3 Certificate in Swedish MassageLevel 3 Diploma in Sports Massage TherapyLevel 3 Diploma in Indian Head MassageLevel 3 Diploma in Stone TherapyLevel 3 Dip. in Health & SafetyLevel 3 Dip. in Anatomy and PsysiologyLevel 3 Diploma in Management of Activity InjuriesLevel 2 Certificate in Thermal Auricular TherapyLevel 2 Certificate in Emergency First AidLevel 3 Diploma in AromatherapyLevel 3 Diploma in Body MassageLevel 3 Diploma in ReflexologyLevel 3 Diploma in Remedial MassageRegistered Health Professionals

Training OverviewLevel 3 Certificate in Swedish MassageLevel 3 Diploma in Sports Massage TherapyLevel 3 Diploma in Indian Head MassageLevel 3 Diploma in Stone TherapyLevel 3 Dip. in Health & SafetyLevel 3 Dip. in Anatomy and PsysiologyLevel 3 Diploma in Management of Activity InjuriesLevel 2 Certificate in Thermal Auricular TherapyLevel 2 Certificate in Emergency First AidLevel 3 Diploma in AromatherapyLevel 3 Diploma in Body MassageLevel 3 Diploma in ReflexologyLevel 3 Diploma in Remedial MassageRegistered Health Professionals

Prerequisites: Swedish Massage Anatomy & Physiology First Aid Course description: This qualification is designed for anyone looking to work within the sports environment. Itincludes sports massage the understanding of joint and muscle function muscular-skeletal injuries and advice on post-medical sports massage treatment. This qualification is recognised by the SMA Sports Massage Association to whom you may apply to join on successful completion of the course Course contents: - Sports massage techniques - Origin and insertion of muscles - Palpation skills required - Joint assessments of the knee hip ankle wrist elbow shoulder. - The process of soft tissue damage and the repair process - Neuromuscular techniques - The safe and effective application and use of audio sonic and paraffin wax - Contra-indications and contra-actions - Health and Safety Course fees: £490.00 There is a £26.00 fee for VTCT registration and certification. In addition there is a Health & Safety Certificate VTCT Fee of £25.00. PHYSIOTHERAPIST/CHIROPRACTOR/OSTEOPATH We offer a course especially for you which will provide you with Swedish Massage which is the required pre-requisite for Sports Massage. You will obviously receive accredited Prior Learning from some aspects hence we offer a 8 day course in Swedish & Sports Massage only for health professionals. Normally 14 days at a cost of £1010 (plus vtct fees)all for only £625 (saving you £385)

Holistic Facial Preston Therapy Centre Certificate (suitable for insurance purposes) Maximum number of students 6 Course Content Benefits of treatment Contra-indications and Contra-actions Aftercare advice Techniques / Practical Entry Requirements Body Massage or Aromatherapy Certificate Course duration One day Costs Course fee £100.00 Credit card bookings available by telephone. Easy payment terms available ask for details. 10% discount on courses and full day workshops for additional training.

Deep Tissue Preston Therapy Centre Certificate (suitable for insurance purposes) This course is designed for qualified therapists who wish to learn and develop further massage skills. The objective is to teach techniques that work primarily on the large muscle groups thus reducing tension in the areas of the body tthat are particularly susceptible to excess strain and discomfort. Course Content Major muscle groups Benefits of treatment Contra-indications and Contra-actions Aftercare advice Techniques / Practical Entry Requirements Body Massage Certificate Course duration One day Costs Course fee £100.00 Credit card bookings available by telephone. Easy payment terms available ask for details. 10% discount on courses and full day workshops for additional training.

Stone Therapy Preston Therapy Centre Certificate (suitable for insurance purposes) This therapy uses both hot and cold stones which are massaged onto the body thus allowing heat/cold to penetrate the surrounding muscles. The result is a feeling of deep relaxation for the client whilst enabling the therapist to perform deep massage with the minimum strain and effort. It can aid Chakra balancing and can also be used in conjunction with other therapies such as Reflexology Aromatherapy and MLD. This therapy is increasing in popularity and we offer an intense one day course to qualified therapists. Course Content History & theory of Stone Therapy Health and Safety Chakras Benefits of treatments Other applications for thermal stones Contra-indications & contra–actions After care advise Practical techniques Entry Requirements Body/Swedish/Aromatherapy Massage Certificate Course duration One day Costs Course fee £100.00 Kits may be purchased from Preston Therapy Centre Credit card bookings available by telephone. Easy payment terms available ask for details. 10% discount on courses and full day workshops for additional training.

VTCT Diploma in Remedial Massage

VTCT Diploma in Aromatherapy