Florida School of Massage

Biodynamic Cranial Approach ~ Touch of Presence® Introductory Course
2019-08-23 09:00 - 2019-08-25 18:00 UTC | Gainesville Retreat Center, 1551 SE 51st Street, Gainesville, FL, 32641, United States
Instructor: Giorgia Milne
Time: 9AM-6PM (with 90-minute lunch)
Workshop Price: $600 for new students / $300 to repeat if registered and paid by Dec 31, 2025; $650/$325 starting January 1, 2026
Location: Gainesville Retreat Center
CE Hours: 24 Florida and NCBTMB

Suggested Reading:
An Osteopathic Odyssey by James Jealous
Radical Wholeness: The Embodied Present and the Ordinary Grace of Being by Philip Shepherd
Engaging the Movment of Life by Bonnie Gintis
Interface by R. Paul Lee
Stillness by Charles Ridley
Students will need to bring a massage table, 2 flat sheets, two pillows, and a blanket.
To Register: Visit https://www.touchofpresence.com/courses-schedule-registration
Classes will take place at the Gainesville Retreat Center
This course is an introduction to the Biodynamic Craniosacral Approach, which can be offered as a pure hands-on practice, or incorporated as a primary disposition that integrates and informs any other modality, as well as daily life. It is followed by a deeper dive opportunity in the form the Intensive Course which spans four 4-day weekends over the course of 1 year.
The Biodynamic Cranial Approach Introduction allows students to learn directly through felt-sense-experience by feelingly inhabiting the inner body space. Rather than focusing on an outside-in model of learning (like focusing on craniosacral anatomy or treatment protocols) this course allows students to learn directly via supervised session exchanges and group discussions. Embodiment and centering practices lay the foundation for the work, and the “teaching” comes from the “inside-out” via the students’ direct experiences.
During the Introduction Course students learn to touch from a grounded sense of present awareness in a way that is non-efferent (meaning ‘I don’t leave here to go over there’), non-doing (being practice, not doing practice), and in tonal resonance with primary respiration and the natural inherent Health and Wisdom of the body. Great care and emphasis are made to cease all efferent activity and intervention, encouraging students to stay with the feeling-tone (or felt-sense) of what is, as it is. Without the symptom-treatment overlay, students rest in silence, stillness, and their natural state of presence and being to directly access primary respiration in their inner bodies. This approach & teaching method mirror one of the instructions of Dr. William Sutherland – to “trust the tide”. By allowing the inherent physiological forces within to guide the sessions and the learning, the natural world and the Breath of Life begin to reveal themselves.
This course is Open to anyone wishing to develop personally or to investigate pursuing a committed professional track. The Introductory Course is for all health practitioners, psychotherapists, movement therapists, and bodyworkers new to cranial work. It is required for all craniosacral practitioners or other biodynamic practitioners who wish to learn more about the type of biodynamics we teach before undertaking a committed yearlong study of Biodynamic Cranial Approach ~ Touch of Presence® Intensive.
This Introduction Course is the required prerequisite for the Biodynamic Cranial Approach Intensive — the year long immersion in this approach. For more information, visit the Biodynamic Cranial Approach ~ Touch of Presence® Intensive Certification page.
Go to https://www.touchofpresence.com/courses-schedule-registration to register
Questions? Contact Mary at 352-246-6280 ph/txt or mary@touchofpresence.com
Giorgia Milne founded Touch of Presence® School for Biodynamic Studies in 2021. She embodies well over 35 years of personal and professional development from allopathic skill to the healing energy work of all the major craniosacral and related approaches. She continues to be evolved by her originating transmission impulse, which is at the heart and essence of all her offerings in this Biodynamic Cranial Approach (BCA). Giorgia is a graduate of the Stanford University Physician Assistant Program and former Primary Care Provider. She travels extensively offering Touch of Presence® BCA Introductions, Intensives, Retreats, and numerous other course topics emphasizing biodynamic principles inherent to the perspective of Touch of Presence® BCA. Her teaching style rests in her vast personal and professional embodied experience resulting in the ability to perceive the landscape and teach directly from the dynamic alchemy of the present moment. This is Oral Tradition. She also continues ongoing Graduate, Assistant, and potential new Teacher development.

Playing with Feeling
2019-08-18 09:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Frank Merillat

Time:
Workshop Price: $125 early discount if received by 7/27, $150 after 7/27
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours:
To Register: Email Frank at fmerillat@mac.com or call 352 371-0743

Workshop description:
When we touch another person we are communicating. The therapist receives sensory feeling information from the client and offers sensory feeling information to the client. This opens the door to possibilities of awareness and change. This class will focus on deepening the ability to both perceive and offer feeling to those we touch. Through the use of touch, inquiry and exploration we will deepen our skill to touch. This will be an experiential class, hands on and with movement, focusing on the interaction and engagement of the nervous system. The focus will be on how touch affects us both as therapist and client. The skills gained will be useful and applicable no matter what type of bodywork is practiced.

Myofascial Components of Head, Neck, & Shoulder Pain
2019-08-17 09:00 - 2019-08-18 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Date: Saturday – Sunday, August 17-18, 2019
Time: 9AM – 6 PM
Workshop Price: $325 ($275 before Aug 2)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 18
To Register: Contact Lee Whitridge, 772-979-5828 or bluemoonies@juno.com

Questions? Contact: Pete Whitridge at justaskpete@mac.com
[Download workshop flyer]
Description:
Want to have fun while getting your CEUs? Spend two days with Pete Whitridge exploring deep tissue structures of the upper body that are at the root of most client pain.

Refine your touching skills and gain new confidence
Deepen your knowledge of anatomy and fascial structures
Teach your clients to work with you during therapy
Eliminate chronic pain by working below the client’s pain threshold
Slow down, focus your attention, be more effective with less effort

This workshop explores the Responsibility Center, focusing on the scapulae, shoulder girdle, brachial plexus, cervical ligaments, and mandible. This is a multi-disciplinary approach to chronic pain. We will use orthopedic assessments, passive and active fascial stretching, hydrotherapies, as well as myofascial and muscle energy techniques to help idenitfy and eliminate pain and dysfunction. You will have the opportunity to dialogue about your own specific client needs and learn self-care strategies to help clients maintain pain free movement. We will review current findings from the Fascia Research Congress while exploring the unique nature of the connective tissues!
This class is designed to help you pinpoint problem areas quickly, devise strategies to eliminate pain, and work collaboratively with your client. You will receive lots of bodywork, learn new ways to handle clients with chronic pain, and reconnect with fellow massage therapists. You will leave this class with new skills and confidence in helping your clients be pain free!
About the instructor
Pete’s been a licensed massage therapist since 1988. He is a founder and Past President of the Alliance For Massage Therapy Education and has dedicated his career to helping establish high standards in massage therapy education. He teaches throughout the US and is a frequent speaker at FSMTA, FCA, and AMTA meetings and conventions.
Pete has served as Chair of the FL Board of Massage Therapy. He received the FSMTA Charles Canfield Award for service to the massage profession in 2004. He was inducted into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame in 2016 at the World Massage Festival.
He lives in Fort Piece, FL with his wife Lee. They travel frequently and would love to visit your town.

Getting Specific: The Low-Back and Hip
2019-08-17 09:00 - 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Frank Merillat
Date: August 17, 2019
Time: 9AM-6PM
Workshop Price: $150 ($125 if paid at least three weeks prior)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 9 FL CEU
To Register: Contact Frank Merillat at (352) 371-0743 or by e-mail at fmerillat@mac.com. Please leave a message and he will return your call promptly.

The ability to offer good specific treatment to areas of the body can distinguish a therapist. When a client has the need to have a condition addressed, a thorough knowledge of the anatomical structure and contractile tissue associated can be instrumental in offering effective treatment.
Getting Specific is a series of one or two day workshop experiences that focus on specific areas of the body. Anatomical structures, synergistic muscle groups, and effective techniques associated with the particular area of the body will be covered. Use of audio-visual aids, lecture and hands-on palpation will help the participant get clearer on what they are touching. Demonstrations will address techniques that are useful for the area presented. Lots of hands on time will be available with the opportunity to interact with the instructor. This will be a great way to review and build your skills.
This class will focus on the low back and hip. The pelvis is a transition point in the body. Proper curvature of the lumbar spine is necessary for weight from above to be transitioned to the lower extremity. The hip has to be able to stabilize and mobilize to get functional movement and postural support. This class will focus on the structure and musculature involved in these actions. Psoas, iliacus, quadratus lumborum and the abdominals will be addressed, as well as the musculature attaching to the greater trochanter of the femur and structure of the pelvis. Techniques that address these muscles, plus ways to help your clients keep a functional pelvis will be covered. Come join and play with this important region of the body.
Please bring linens, shea or cocoa butter lubricant, 3 or 4 pillows for support and sideline work, note taking materials if you like to take notes.
To Register for this course please contact Frank Merillat at (352) 371-0743 or by e-mail at fmerillat@mac.com. Please leave a message and he will return your call promptly.

Bones for Life®, Segment I (Day One and Two)
2019-08-03 10:00 - 2019-08-04 17:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor(s): Anne Andrews
Date: August 3 – 4, 2019 Day 1 and 2. Day 3 and 4 is scheduled for June 1st and 2nd.
It is not necessary to sign up for all 4 days to reap the benefits but it is encouraged. Sign up for all 4 days and receive a $15 discount.
Time: Sat and Sun. 10 AM-5 PM, 60 min. for lunch.
Workshop Price:$220 per weekend workshop for early birds (registered by July 13th) or if you are an FSM student or FSMTA member. $249 regular price.
Location: Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St., Gainesville, FL, 32608
CE Hours: 12 Florida and NCBTMB
To Register: For questions contact Anne Andrews anneandrewslmt25@yahoo.com, 386-538-1918 or go online at www.anneandrews.abmp.com
Sign up online now:
https://squareup.com/market/anne-andrews?square_lead=button

Would you like to improve your posture and the quality of your everyday movements?
Would you like to learn new ways to prevent self-injury?
Would you like to expand your knowledge base for working with your clients including those who are experiencing bone loss?

The Bones for Life® program offers a new paradigm of strategies for de-programing painful patterns of posture and movement facilitating options for moving and standing that are pain-free. Based on the concepts of Somatic Integrative Learning also known as the Feldenkrais® Method, the movements awaken the intelligence of movement management while load bearing to promote bone building strength and restore proportional flexibility in the spine. These strategies allow the bodyworker to gain knowledge and experience anatomy from a functional perspective, developing insights and deepening one’s knowledge base of kinesthetic movement, and skeletal and muscular anatomy.
In day one and two of the series you will learn and explore movements to:

Properly align the spine to safely sustain light transmission of pressure to promote bone health and restore an effortless upright posture.
Cultivate proportional flexibility and springiness in the spine, knees and other joints
Stabilize the pelvis and hip joints
Develop a well- functioning springy alignment to stimulate bone strength
Improve the quality of standing, sitting, walking or other daily activities
Release painful patterns of movement and adopt more efficient patterns of posture and locomotion

Although this program is primarily for self-care, some self-massage technique is also practiced. Active and passive assisted range of motion can be applied to clients using kinesthetic cues for self-referencing. Hands-on demonstrations and practice will be provided.
This course is open to the general public. It is also open to anyone interested in the Bones for Life Teacher Certification Program. Participants should be able to lie on the floor and come to standing with little or no assistance.
Materials: Bring a mat or blanket to lay on, a pair of socks or small hand washcloths, pillows to support neck and/or back and wear loose comfortable clothing. A long piece of cotton cloth 23ft. by 36-48 inches wide. This cloth is available at Joann Fabrics. You can contact the Instructor if you wish to reserve a cloth.
Refund Policy: If there is insufficient enrollment in case a class needs to be canceled, a full refund will be given to those who have registered and paid in full. If a student needs to cancel three weeks in advance before the first day of the class, the student may transfer the full amount to another class, or elect to receive a partial refund of 80% of the class fee. An administrative fee of 20% will be charged for cancellations within the last three weeks prior to the course. As a courtesy to the Instructor and other participants please relay your need to cancel in a timely manner.
Instructor(s): Anne Andrews, LMT, MA #38362, MM36872, is a graduate from the Florida School of Massage in 2003 and is a certified Ortho-Bionomy® Practitioner, and a Bones for Life® Trainer. She is also an approved CE credit provider for Florida and NCBTMB CE’s. Having experienced chronic debilitating pain herself, Anne has great empathy for people who are in pain. This gift of pain which initially prevented her from experiencing a “normal life” has taken her on an incredible journey. She discovered her passion for healing and teaching and was introduced to these two wonderful and transformational modalities. In her private practice, Anne combines her knowledge and skills in Ortho-Bionomy® and Bones for Life® to empower individuals to take care of themselves and enhance their well-being. Both of these are gentle non-invasive systems of healing that remind the body of its natural ability to come back into balance. Her passion for teaching the Bones for Life program comes through in her classes providing a fun and engaging learning environment. Anne currently lives in St. Augustine, Fl and travels throughout the State teaching the Bones for Life program.

Medical Errors Prevention
2019-07-14 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Kristen Toth
Workshop Price: $25
Time: 9AM-11AM
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 2 Florida
Registration:
Pay online at http://bit.ly/MedErr_Jul14 or contact Kristen at 352-870-2903 or info@kristentoth.com
Description:
The Florida Board of Massage Therapy requires that, prior to license renewal, all massage therapists attend a 2-hour class in the prevention of medical errors*. Please join us for a fun and informative discussion on this important topic regarding our role in providing safe care to our clients!
The intention of this class is to stimulate thought and discussion regarding the prevention of medical errors in the context of a massage practice. By sharing experiences and ideas about this topic with other Florida LMTs from varying backgrounds, participants have an opportunity to gain awareness of simple ways they might further ensure their own clients’ safety, whether they have been practicing for 5 months or 25 years!
*If you also need to complete your 4-hour requirement in Florida Statutes & Rules and Professional Ethics, you’re in luck! That class will be offered on the same day, and you can find more information here.
About the instructor:
Kristen is a 2003 graduate of The Florida School of Massage, a Certified Hand & Foot Reflexologist since 2008, an instructor at FSM since 2012, and has been teaching Medical Errors Prevention since 2013. She loves the wide variety of LMTs that show up to participate and share their experience in this renewal class, and enjoys making the exploration of medical errors in massage as interesting and useful as possible!

Thai Foot Reflexology
2019-07-13 09:00 - 2019-07-14 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Ariela Grodner
Time: 9AM-6PM
Workshop Price: $300 ($250 if registered before June 28th)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 18 Florida and National
To Register: Contact Ariela at 813-417-6745 or arielagrodner@yahoo.com
In this workshop students will learn to give an hour-long session on the feet alone, while still affecting the whole body through aware stimulation of the sen lines and marma points. Utilizing both dry and wet massage (with and without oil) as well as a Thai foot stick, to glide the lines and press the points with greater accuracy and precision then the hands alone could provide. The style we will be exploring is a method derived from Shivaga Komarpaj of the Chiang Mai school of Thai Massage, and is for everyone, therapists and lay people alike. This is a powerful healing tool that can be implemented on it’s own, or as an addition to the full body massage. No prior massage experience is necessary to be educated in this methodology.
What to bring
Please bring a mat, a vegetarian potluck dish for lunch, trinkets & tools of empowerment to decorate our class altar, and a willingness to learn. We will work on mats on the floor or Massage Tables. You can pick what you prefer. We can provide a massage table if you prefer to work on one.

Explorations in Movement Based Bodywork: Understanding Core Strength
2019-07-07 10:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Core strengthening has become popular in sports and physical therapy, and many people blame all low back pain on lack of core strength. And indeed, many people with low back pain improve when the core is strengthened.
But does it work? Yes, except when it doesn’t And when it does work, perhaps it doesn’t always work for the reasons you think. And when it doesn’t work, sometimes problems arise from hypertonicity in the psoas, co-contraction of the flexors and extensors, and pelvic floor issues.
This knowledge is important for the massage therapist, both for knowledge of treating injuries, and for client education for clients who have been misinformed or are confused.
Goals for this class include:

Examining the evidence for core strengthening; Does it really work?
Learning alternate reasons why it may work.
Understanding the problems that may arise when this approach is used poorly or inappropriately.
Learning painless hands-on treatment for psoas issues and co-contraction.
Practicing alternative methods of core strengthening, based on the Feldenkrais Method of Movement Education©, and Continuum of Emilie Conrad. These methods provide a multidirectional and more holistic approach to strengthening, and hands-on bodywork methods can be based on these strategies.

This class will be experiential, and will include floor exercise, lecture, discussion, and hands-on practice. This qualifies for 6 hands-on CE units NCBTMB. There is no prerequisite.
Exercises will be done on a carpeted floor; students may wish to bring a mat or towel, and wear comfortable clothes for movement. Students should be able to lie on the floor and come to standing with little or no assistance. Bring sheets; no lotion is required.
Class starts at 10 AM and ends at 5 PM. There will be an hour for lunch, starting at approximately 12:30.
For more information, you may contact Ann Harman at annharman0112358@gmail.com or 352-466-4940.
Instructor: Ann Harman, D.O., LMT
Time: 10 AM-5 PM
Workshop Regular Price: $90
Early Registration Price and Deadline: $80 with 30-day advance registration
Location: Florida School of Massage
CEU Hours: 6 CE, NCBTMB

To Register:
Use the correct PayPal link below to register.

Above buttons are for Early registration $80 (30 days prior to course)

Above button is for regular price Core Strength $90
Payment by check
If check payment is preferred please mail the correct amount to:
Ann Harman
15430 SW 75th St, Archer, FL 32618

Movement Based Bodywork: Foundations of Breathwork
2019-06-29 10:00 - 17:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Ann Harman
Time: Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM
Workshop Price: $90 (or $80 if paid at least 30 days in advance)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 6 CEUs for LMTs
Description:
This workshop is open to anyone, and is of special interest to athletes, people with health concerns, health-care workers, and anyone who would like to be less stressed and more energetic. Learning in painless, through fascinating investigations of movement. The class includes:

Understanding of anatomy and physiology of breathing mechanism, including rib motion and role of primary and secondary respiratory muscles.
Role of the thoracic inlet, respiratory diaphragm, and pelvic diaphragm in breathing.
Effects of full vs. restricted breathing in cervical, thoracic, shoulder, and lumbar pain as well as general health.
How to affect the autonomic nervous system and decrease stress using breathing..
Relationship of lumbar movement to rib and respiratory diaphragm movement.
Sensory-Motor movement explorations to improve breathing and create a kinesthetic sense of the anatomy, which complements the intellectual knowledge of anatomy.

We will use the gentle movement explorations of the Feldenkrais Method© to explore and enhance our own breathing. We will discuss the anatomy of breath and its relationship to relaxation and stress management. Demonstrations of how to integrate this knowledge into hands-on work will be done,
This class is open to and appropriate for the general public, so you may bring clients who wish to learn self-care.
To Register
Use the correct form below to register

The above buttons for $80 advanced registration (if registering 30 days prior)

The above button is for regular registration
Payment by check
If check payment is preferred please mail the correct amount to:
Ann Harman
15430 SW 75th St, Archer, FL 32618

MNRI® Archetype Movement Integration
2019-06-27 08:30 - 2019-06-29 17:00 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Isabelle Renard-Fontaine, PT
Workshop Price: $585 if registered by 6/1, $645 thereafter
Time: 8:30am – 5pm
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 24 NCBTMB
Registration https://masgutovamethod.com/events#dv.i1299
Description
MNRI® Archetype Movement techniques work to activate and engage archetype movements that, for various reasons, have remained dormant in the body. Archetype movements, less complex in nature than motor reflex patterns or schemes, are among the first reflexive movements to develop and emerge. Once engaged, archetype movements remain present and active in the body, allowing normal range and flexibility of motion while providing support, balance, and stability for the upper and lower, left and right, and front and back parts of the body. Archetype motor movements also play a subordinate role in the maturation and integration of progressively more complex reflexes, including primary motor reflex patterns, motor reflex schemes, and the development of learned motor skills.
If an archetype movement is not appropriately engaged, its impact can be great given the subordinate role it plays in maturation and development. We encourage parents and professionals interested in learning more about the MNRI Method and its various programs to attend this course early on, given the fundamental role it plays in overall development.
The MNRI® Archetype Movement Integration course explores:

The general MNRI Method and the role played by the Archetype Movement Program
The progression of motor movements beginning in utero and continuing through life
Archetype motor movements and how they relate to primary motor reflex patterns and important coordination systems
The role archetype motor movements play in establishing a foundation for motor, communication and cognitive development, and emotional and behavioral regulation
MNRI techniques designed to assess and facilitate the maturation and integration of archetype motor movements
How to create MNRI archetype maturation programs for individual clients
How to incorporate use of the MNRI Archetype Motor Movement course content into daily client and home practice

About the instructor
Isabelle Renard-Fontaine has acquired over 23 years of experience as a physiotherapist working with children and adults with a wide variety of diagnoses. Originally receiving her Master’s in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in Belgium, she has been licensed and practicing in Florida since 1996 and has been a Neonatal Intensive Care specialist since 2001. About 10 years ago, Isabelle was introduced to the Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration Method. The discovery of this method brought a whole new dimension to her professional career as well as to her personal life! She has since completed hundreds of hours of MNRI classes and has been accruing close to one thousand of clinical hours of MNRI techniques working directly with Dr. Masgutova and her international team. Isabelle’s enthusiasm for teaching is obvious, and she brings and shares many practical applications and pictures/videos of concrete clinical cases during her classes. Isabelle is a truly passionate and dedicated therapist, and her therapeutic touch and love for her patients is inspiring.

Manual therapies for Surgeries, Scars, and Burns
2019-06-22 09:00 - 2019-06-23 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Time: Sat/Sun 9AM-6PM
Location: Florida School of Massage
Cost: $350 ($295 if registered before June 16th)
CE Hours: 18 Florida
To Register: Contact Lee Whitridge, 772-979-5828 or bluemoonies@juno.com or [Register online here]
Questions? Contact: Pete Whitridge at justaskpete@mac.com
[Download Workshop flyer]
Description:
Want to have fun while getting your CEU’s? Spend two days with Pete Whitridge exploring the physical and emotional aspects of working with clients’ scars. You will learn effective strategies for helping your clients heal.
• Refine your touching skills and deepen your knowledge of anatomy
• Gain confidence working with scar tissue
• Teach your clients to work with you during therapy
• Eliminate chronic pain by working below the client’s pain threshold
• Slow down, focus your attention, be more effective with less effort
This class will offer a multi-disciplinary approach to working with scars, burns, and chronic pain. We will explore myofascial assessments, deep tissue techniques, passive and active stretching, muscle energy techniques, hydrotherapies, cross fiber friction, and self-care.
We will review current findings from the Fascia Research Congress and investigate the unique nature of the connective tissues. Deepen your therapy skills by exploring how manual therapies can affect traumatic/surgical scars and burns. This class is designed to help you pinpoint problem areas quickly, devise strategies to eliminate pain, and work collaboratively with your client. You will receive lots of bodywork, learn new ways to handle clients with chronic pain, and reconnect with fellow massage therapists. You will leave this class with new skills and confidence in helping your clients be pain free!
About the Instructor:
Pete’s been a licensed massage therapist since 1988. He is a founder and Past President of the Alliance For Massage Therapy Education and has dedicated his career to helping establish high standards in massage therapy education. He teaches throughout the US and is a frequent speaker at FSMTA, FCA and AMTA meetings and conventions. Pete has served on the FL Board of Massage Therapy. He received the FSMTA Charles Canfield Award for service to the massage profession in 2004. He was inducted into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame in 2016 at the World Massage Festival. He lives in Fort Pierce, FL with his wife Lee. They travel frequently and would love to visit your town.

Playing with the Breath - cancelled
2019-05-11 09:00 - 2019-05-12 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Frank Merillat
Time: Saturday-Sunday, 9AM-6PM
Workshop Price: $350 or ($295 if payment is received by March 10)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 18 FL CEUs
To Register: This event has been cancelled

Workshop description:

The breath is necessary for the optimum functioning of our body. It is often seen as our connection to spirit or God. The act of breathing is called respiration, refilling us with spirit. Without free and easy breath our quality of life is lessened. Much of our breathing is done unconsciously; we do it without being aware, yet it can be used as a great tool of awareness. Part of the focus of the class will be bringing awareness throughout the bodywork process. The act of breathing is a place in our bodies where our body and our conscious and unconscious mind meets.

Breathing is something most people take for granted. It involves structure and musculature over a much wider area of the body than most of us realize. Many complaints that clients bring such as posture or that involve areas of the body such as the low back, shoulders and neck do have an affect on the ability to breathe well.

The course will focus on the structure, fascial and muscular connections involved in this complex act. We will explore the relationship to posture, as well as the relationship of mental and emotional states to the act of breathing. Specific treatment techniques will focus on the neck, chest, ribs, abdomen, and the upper and lower back. The ability to do this work well can greatly improve and enhance your practice.

In this workshop we will focus on the dynamics of breath.

We will look closely at the relationship between breath and posture.
We will examine the musculature that contributes to the mechanics of breathing.
We will explore the relationship of body and mind to the act of breathing.
We will learn effective, gentle bodywork strategies to enhance the function of breath.
We will learn specific techniques for the neck, chest, abdomen and back including scalene and SCM, rib mobilization, diaphragm and abdominals.
We will do this together in an experiential, fun and enlightening manner.

Maahaah-Rooh Medical Qi Gong & Mindfulness (Meditation) for Restorative Health & Energy
2019-05-04 09:00 - 2019-05-05 13:00 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Professor K. A. Shakoor, D.A.O.M.
Dates: Saturday – Sunday May 4-5, 2019
Time: 9AM-1PM both days
Price: $75 per day/$120 for both days – Walk-ins welcome – cash or check only
To Register: E-mail Dr. K. A. Shakoor at padma.shakoor96@gmail.com. Payment by cash or check at the door, the day of the event.
Open to all medical professionals working in the medical field (LMT’s, AACP’s, Pt’s, etc.)
Workshop Flyer
Workshop Syllabus
Workshop Description
Maahaah Rooh Medical Qi Gong is a highly effective and easily retainable system of Qi Gong designed for massage therapists, acupuncturists, physical therapists and nurses that allows them to restore their energy (Qi) so they can maintain maximum efficacy on a continual basis. Dr. Shakoor has successfully worked with health practitioners in educational and clinical environments over the course of thirty years.
It consists of a set of breathing exercises designed to cultivate life force energy (Qi). The objective of Maahaah Rooh Medical Qi Gong is to teach a step-by-step method of exercise to keep the body and mind in optimal fitness. This is a very low-impact form of exercise that includes standing movements (Zhan Zhuang) and slow movements similar in style to Tai Chi Chuan.
Individuals will enhance their fluidity of movement, coordination, and balance, resulting in greater flexibility and stress reduction through the application of deep relaxation, breathing techniques and methods of stillness. The purpose is to detoxify the body’s organs of impurities and toxins, then regenerate and invigorate the body so that one feels refreshed, both physically and mentally.
Dr. Shakoor has instructed the practices of Maahaah Rooh Medical Qi Gong in a variety of settings. In addition to the clinical settings mentioned above, he has also presented them at numerous workshops across the country, institutes of higher learning in Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, New Jersey and Ohio, and has presented three times at the annual conference of the National Qi Gong Association.
Maahaah Rooh Medical Qi Gong is an excellent introduction to the energetic experience and encompasses both physical and mental aspects. This article will briefly explore Form One of the Heavenly Hands Medical Qi Gong– Seven Palms—which is part of its physical process, and will then explore mindfulness and meditation, and Traditional Chinese Medicine theory.
What Participants Need to Bring to Class: Wear loose comfortable clothing, water and snacks.
See current article in qi-journal.com
Instructor Bio: Shakoor has 50 years’ experience in the fields of energetic and mind/body disciplines and more than 30 as an instructor. He has taught classes and given demonstrations at educational institutions, mental health facilities, and hospitals to government and law enforcement agencies, private groups, clubs, and sports teams. He has designed, planned and promoted health fairs training workshops and health seminars in various communities in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Florida. He is the author of Ghetto Sutras, 2016, and Maahaah Yoga, 2007, both published by Jannah Press, and the upcoming book The Treatment of the Shen in Relation to T.C.M. and Tibetan Medicine.

Oncology Massage Therapy
2019-05-02 - 2019-05-05 | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor(s) Names and Credentials:
Nanci Newton and Erika Slocum
Date(s)/Day(s): Thursday, May 2 – Sunday, May 5, 2019
Time(s):
Day 1: 9:00 am – 6:30 pm
(but please arrive by 8:15 or 8:30 on day 1 to check in and get settled)
Day 2: 9:00 am – 6:30 pm
Day 3: 8:30 am – 6:30 pm
Day 4: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Workshop Regular Price: $797.00 USD
Early Registration Price and Deadline: $697.00 USD by Friday, March 21
Location: Florida School of Massage 6421 SW 13th Street Gainesville, FL 32608
CEU Hours Offered and Approving Institution:
32.0 CE hours (Including 2.0 CE hrs Prevention of Medical Errors in FL)
Tracy Walton & Associates, LLC is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) as a continuing education Approved Provider, provider number 283404-00 and is also sponsored by the NCBTMB to teach New York LMTs continuing education that is accepted by the state of New York for license renewal.
Tracy Walton & Associates, LLC is approved by the state of Florida and state of Georgia Boards of Massage Therapy as a continuing education provider, provider number 50-13512.
Registration Contact Info:
Tracy Walton & Associates, LLC – 617-661-5800; info@tracywalton.com;
Course description at www.tracywalton.com;
Training schedule and details at https://www.tracywalton.com/event-directory/
Workshop Description:
As the role of massage therapy in cancer care expands, it is an exciting time to provide oncology massage. In this intensive course, we combine the art and practice of touch to create safe, effective massage sessions for clients with cancer and cancer histories. In a lively, supportive learning environment, participants learn simple, concrete ways to adapt massage to cancer and cancer treatment.
We look closely at the dynamics of cancer spread, shining new light on the old myth that massage was contraindicated, and we introduce several approaches for educating the public about this common concern. We then modify traditional western massage techniques for common client presentations, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, bone metastasis, vital organ involvement, and lymphedema risk. Unique positioning and bolstering techniques are introduced for pain relief, sleep support, and overall comfort.
We introduce guidelines for a range of client presentations, from robust to medically frail. These guidelines may be used effectively in a variety of massage settings, including the hospital, private practice, spa or retreat center, franchise, and hospice.
A balanced approach to learning blends lecture, spirited discussion, and hands-on work. In-depth homework is assigned prior to the course (instructional videos, 2-3 hrs. total view time) and during the course (about 1 hr. of evening homework on days 1, 2, and 3).
Massage therapists leave with essential oncology massage therapy tools: sample protocols, a client intake form, follow-up intake questions, a visual decision tree, clearly described pressure guidelines, supervised hands-on practice experiences, and an extensive training manual.
What Participants Need to Bring to Class:
Upon registration, a Student Packet will be emailed to students. The packet will include a list of supplies to bring along with links to required preparation activities to complete in advance of the course.
Biography of the Instructors: Nanci Newton and Erika Slocum
Nanci Newton is a 1998 graduate of the Muscular Therapy Institute and taught as an adjunct faculty member at Springfield Technical Community College in Springfield, Massachusetts. She has taught with Tracy Walton & Associates since 2005.
Nanci has maintained a full-time practice since 1998 with her team of therapists at her award-winning company, The Healing ZONE Therapeutic Massage in Hadley, Massachusetts. They provide oncology massage therapy for caregivers and patients through the Cancer Connection in Northampton, Massachusetts.
In 2014, Nanci was named one of “The 100” honored by Massachusetts General Hospital who have dedicated themselves to making a difference in the fight against cancer. Her oncology massage therapy work was featured in Thrive magazine. She was an invited speaker at the 2016 and 2018 Oncology Massage Healing Summits in Minneapolis.
Annually, Nanci organizes oncology massage therapy volunteers for the annual Pan Mass Challenge fundraiser for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She is a musician, juggler and dedicated just-for-fun runner in many annual fundraising events, from 5K races to half marathons.
Erika Slocum is a graduate of the Muscular Therapy Institute in Cambridge, MA (2005). She completed the Boston Medical Center oncology massage therapy internship in 2011, when she also began teaching with Tracy Walton & Associates.
Erika works part-time as a massage therapist at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She also maintains a private practice in Somerville, Massachusetts, where she and her business partner employ four other massage therapists. Their specialties are oncology massage, prenatal massage, and orthopedic techniques. A dedicated massage therapist and former event planner, she organized, recruited, and supported students and staff in our oncology massage workshops and clinics for nearly five years. She has been an invited speaker at the 2016 and 2018 Oncology Massage Healing Summits in Minneapolis. Read more about Erika’s work in our blog interview.
Erika brings a bachelor’s degree in communications, a long history as a dancer, and a passion for massage and massage education to her teaching and her hands-on work. When she is not working, she loves traveling and caring for her growing family.

Resistance/Release Work with Deane Juhan
2019-04-26 09:00 - 2019-04-28 18:00 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Deane Juhan
Dates: Friday-Sunday, April 25-27, 2025
Location: Florida School of Massage, Gainesville, FL
Cost: $550 ($500 early registration discount price if registered by March 25, 2025).
CEUs: 24 Florida and National CEU credits
Time: Class will meet from 9-6 each day
To register for the class or to get more information contact Frank Merillat directly at fmerillat@mac.com or call 352 371-0743 or 352 213-4603.
Come join the group and experience time with a talented bodyworker, teacher of the Trager Approach and author of Job’s Body: A Bodyworkers Handbook. This is a great opportunity to explore contact with the body-mind and a deeper understanding of the workings of the movement body. There will be lots of demonstration, hands-on practice and the opportunity to share and discuss insights.
Course Description:
Relaxation and stress relief are certainly two main goals of bodywork. But there is an important addition to your clients’ somatic well-being that more directly addresses the patterns of muscular habituation, posture, compensations due to injury and the restoring of freedom of movement and freedom from pain: the re-education of the overall sensory motor patterns that have accumulated over time.
The work that will be presented in this workshop is an innovative approach developed by Deane Juhan, based in large measure upon the rehabilitative techniques of Dr. Milton Trager.
Functionally, we are really one muscle that is divided up by the connective tissue structures into different compartments in order to provide specific vectors of motion and coordinated groups of motor units. We are not robots with hinges, cables and pulleys, but shape-changers, and any gesture involves the participation of widespread muscular supports and motivators.
Resistance/Release work is designed to re-coordinate our musculature as a whole and to train more efficient and effective recruitments of muscular contraction and lengthening involved in any position or movement, from feet to head and from sleeve to core. The result is dramatically improved muscular coordination, adding both ease and strength to all of our activities. This approach fits well with most modalities practiced by massage therapists.
Deane would like to focus on the role of presence as a key aspect necessary for effective results and client contact. He will also be discussing the neurological underpinnings of habit formation, and the effects of R&R work on breaking up these old patterns and the cultivation of new more functional habits to facilitate letting go of holding and moving in new, ever more exploratory ways of self-development. Slides, lecture and discussion will be utilized to present a clear understanding of the ways in which habitual pathways—together with sensory and contractile systems—forms the basis of all muscular patterning. This understanding dramatically enhances the intentions and effectiveness of virtually any practice that has to do with muscular habits and movement patterns. It is directly applicable to all bodywork modalities that deal with trauma, pain management, rehabilitation, improved range of motion, enhanced performance, and the development of more effective habits of both muscles and mind. Practitioners of yoga, massage, Trager, Cranio-Sacral, Feldenkrais, Rolfing, Alexander Technique, Pilates, Gyrotonics and Physical Therapy will find this useful and applicable to their practice.
About the instructor: Deane Juhan is the author of Job’s Body: A Handbook for Bodywork and Touched by the Goddess: The Physical, Psychological and Spiritual Power of Bodywork. He has been a professional bodyworker, teacher and lecturer for over 40 years, including 18 years on the Esalen Massage Staff and 30 years as a practitioner and instructor of The Trager Approach. He spent years in direct contact with Dr. Milton Trager and this is reflected in his approach to bodywork. He has taught his seminars in anatomy and physiology for bodyworkers in the US, Canada, Europe and Japan.

Improving Therapy Outcomes Using Current Research Findings
2019-04-13 09:00 - 2019-04-14 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Date: Saturday – Sunday, April 13-14, 2019
Time: 9 AM – 6 PM
Workshop Price: $325 ($275 before March 29)
Location: Florida School of Massage
6421 SW 13th Street, Gainesville, FL 32608
CE Hours: 18
FL Provider 50-1587
To Register: Contact Lee Whitridge at 772-979-5828 or email bluemoonies@juno.com

Questions? Just ask Pete Whitridge justaskpete@mac.com or by calling 772-332-6116
[Download workshop flyer]
Description

Improve your therapy outcomes using current research findings
Deepen your knowledge of anatomical and fascial structures
Teach your clients to work with you during therapy
Eliminate chronic pain by working below the client’s pain threshold
Slow down, focus your attention, be more effective with less effort

This workshop will update you on current research evidence to inform and refine your therapeutic skills. The class will focus on research topics such as affective outcomes, inflammatory response, pain science, and trauma and resiliency. Proper use of thermal therapies, the reeducation of post-traumatic injury response in wound repair, and functional movement patterning will also be covered. Help your clients become self reliant by teaching them to fully engage their own self awareness and interoception. Strengthen your practice and deepen your massage skills with all client populations.
Every time I study with Pete, I learn so much! He always brings new, updated info to class. Love Pete!
– Anon., Sarasota School of Massage Therapy
Outstanding [knowledge of the subject]; explains and conveys information at a good pace, concisely and with humor. [Organization of the class] flows naturally and spontaneously. I like the multitude of visuals, auditory, and hands-on. Great presence; sincere. Fantastic; great instructor!
– Anon., Sarasota School of Massage Therapy
About the instructor
Pete’s been a licensed massage therapist since 1988. He is a founder and Past President of the Alliance For Massage Therapy Education and has dedicated his career to helping establish high standards in massage therapy education. He teaches throughout the US and is a frequent speaker at FSMTA, FCA, and AMTA meetings and conventions.
Pete has served as Chair of the FL Board of Massage Therapy. He received the FSMTA Charles Canfield Award for service to the massage profession in 2004. He was inducted into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame in 2016 at the World Massage Festival.
He lives in Fort Pierce, FL with his wife Lee. They travel frequently and would love to visit your town.

Scar Tissue Management: Principles, Practice and Protocol
2019-04-06 09:00 - 2019-04-07 18:00 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Nancy Keeney Smith
CE Hours: 18 Florida

NCBTMB Provider #: 450391-07
Florida Provider #: 50-11196
Registration: Register here
Contact Nancy Smith at info@ntouchtherapy.com
This highly practical course is aimed at enabling health care professionals to work safely and effectively with patients with scars of varying etiology and through the various stages of accidental or surgical trauma recovery.
The material covers the science of wound healing and scar formation, pathophysiological scar etiology and considerations for bodywork during the various stages of healing and mature scar formation. Trauma-sensitive considerations and communication strategies and are also covered. The course includes instructor demos and participant exchange (assessment and treatment) – including methods/tools for evaluating and tracking treatment outcomes.
The learning outcome is to assist the therapist with improving their critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and scar treatment skills to achieve consistently safe and effective clinical outcomes. You will be encouraged to share your scar tissue experiences and interact with other therapists in group discussions. Nancy combines years of research with traumatic scar clients and her certification in MLD to develop a protocol that combines gentle hands-on techniques to facilitate the best healing environment.
About the Instructor:
Nancy Keeney Smith is an author of Traumatic Scar Tissue Management, Board Certified Licensed Massage Therapist, Certified Lymph Drainage Therapist, and a Florida and NCTMB Provider of Scar Management Workshops. Nancy’s Scar Management Workshops have been taught internationally to students, LMT’s, PT’s and OT’s. Nancy is former 1st VP of the AMTA Florida Chapter, member of the American Burn Association, and the National Lymphedema Network.

2005 Pioneered therapeutic massage sessions with pediatric burn survivors at Camp Amigo
2006 Project Leader of Massage Therapy Foundation Grant funded pilot program for pediatric burn scars & massage therapy
2005 to present Program Leader for TALK Project-massage therapy for pediatric burn survivors
2008 Research paper Published-Range of Motion Improves After Massage in Children with Burns: A Pilot Study
2010 MTIF funds research on how massage and active isolated stretching effects ROM on scar tissue
2011 Opens After Care Clinic for Scar Management in Gainesville, Florida
2013 Presenter- International Massage Therapy Research Conference
2016 Author: Traumatic Scar Management Techniques: Principles, Practice and Protocol-Handspring Publishing
2016 Author: Scar Chapter contributor to Integrative Pain Management-Handspring Publishing
2016 Presenter: Registered Massage Therapists’ Association of British Columbia
2017 Presenter: Massage Therapy Association of Manitoba Conference
2017 Presenter: Massage Therapy Association of Saskatchewan
2018 Presenter: 5th International Fascia Research Congress Berlin, Germany

Ayurvedic Massage and The Ayurvedic Model of Health Care
2019-03-23 09:00 - 2019-03-24 16:00 (America/New_York) | Fairfield Inn & Suites, 3877 SW 37 Blvd, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
March 23 & 24, 2019, 9:00am-4:00pm each day.
12 CEU’s hands on training for LMT, NCBTMB and approved by the National Ayurvedic Medical Association for Ayurvedic Professionals (NAMA-PACE).
To Register: Visit chayaveda.com
Instructor, Chaya~Sharon Heller, BA, CAP, C-IAYT, LMT, Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, Yoga Therapist and Licensed Massage Therapist will teach the signature Ayurvedic Massage; Garshana and Abhyanga. Participants will learn one and two practitioner formats and supporting Ayurvedic theory. Garshana Massage is a silk glove massage that exfoliates the skin and stimulates lymphatic flow and drainage and is an optimal preparation for Abhyanga Massage. Abhyanga Massage is a rhythmic body massage with warm Ayurvedic oils that help arterial and lymphatic circulation and drainage and is the signature Ayurvedic massage modality.
Learn how to set up the treatment room, Ayurvedic anatomy and physiology including 5 elements, doshic theory and function, physiology and psychology, understanding your unique body type, and the nature of imbalance, adaptations for daily and seasonal rhythms, assessment tools, techniques and intake methods, how to provide a safe and therapeutic Ayurvedic massage, selecting appropriate treatment protocols; choosing oil, adapting speed, pressure, & language, the role of Panchakarma and Ayurvedic massage in traditional Ayurvedic health care, the Ayurvedic definition of health, root causes of disease, and disease progression, learning the sequence.
Bring: Massage Table, 2 sets of sheets, 2 bath towels, and 4 hand towels
Massage oil provided • Please notify us of any allergies
Tuition: Includes 1 pair of Garshana Gloves to use and keep, handouts, CEU’s and certificate of completion – $265 Early Bird Through February 25th – $245
Program location: Fairfield Inn & Suites; 3877 SW 37 Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32608
A fabulous travel destination, with an awsome new hotel in Gainesville, conveniently located and surrounded by acres of nature, offering group discounts on rooms for our students. It’s amenities include natural and soothing room decor, a salt water swimming pool, healthy breakfast options, outdoor and indoor lounge and patio areas, large fitness center and more!!! Make this training a vacation or stay cation and explore and experience the wonders of Gainesville, Florida. Choose from their Standard King, 2 Queen or Suites that can sleep up to 5.

Integrating Orthopedic Assessment & Treatment
2019-03-17 08:30 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Neck, Shoulder, Low Back & Knee Injuries
Time: 8:30am- 4:30pm
Workshop Price: $149 (Regular registration is $199)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Credits: ★ Florida: 7
To Register: Visit workshop PayPal page or call 617-576-0777.
Join Dr. Ben Benjamin for his new, hands-on workshop which includes injury assessment and friction therapy treatment. At each full-day training, you will learn two dozen assessment tests, as well as cross-ber friction, and myofascial and deep tissue techniques to address pain and injury in some of the most commonly injured structures in the neck, shoulder, low back, and knee.
You will also learn the anatomy of these structures as never before through physically locating and palpating each targeted muscle, tendon, and ligament with these techniques. This new workshop
gives you a comprehensive view of working with these injuries from initial assessment to treatment.
Learn ASSESSMENT TESTING and HANDS-ON TREATMENT for the most commonly injured structures in the following:

THE NECK – Injuries to these structures can create headache-like pain as well as referred pain into the arms, hands, upper back and chest.
THE SHOULDER – Injuries to these structures can refer pain into the axilla, upper arm, and forearm.
THE LOW BACK – Injuries to these structures can show themselves as low back pain as well as referred pain into the abdomen, hip, thigh, lower leg and foot.
THE KNEE – The most commonly injured ligaments in this area cause debilitating knee pain and swelling – and many practitioners have never heard of them.

About the Instructor
BEN BENJAMIN, PhD (Sports Medicine) has been practicing massage since 1963 and has been nationally recognized for his contributions to massage therapy, receiving the AMTA President’s Award in 2000 and an induction into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame in 2010. *NCBTMB Approved Provider #03029-00 • NYS Approved • Reports to Florida CE Broker

Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils
2019-03-02 09:00 - 2019-03-03 18:00 UTC | FL
Instructor: Christina Polnyj
Time: Saturday – Sunday, 9AM-6PM
Workshop Price: $300
Location: NW Gainesville. Please contact Christina for address and directions. www.essentialeducationinternational.com
CE Hours: 18 Florida
To register or for more information: visit the Essential Education website

Description: LEARN a multilayered approach to health. Gain a deeper understanding of Aromatherapy and how to utilize essential oils at home and/or professionally. Become proficient in the uses of 21 essential oils.
MAKE aromatic cream blends, room sprays, sinus inhalers, diffuser blends, massage oils and bath salts.
DISCOVER how essential oils are used to maintain health, treat acute and chronic pain, and reduce stress.
Learning safety guidelines and basic blending skills is all you need to begin to enjoy the therapeutic use of essential oils. In this class we will study 21 essential oils and gain an understanding of their individual uses, including immune support, reducing inflammation, pain management and stress reduction. Participants will experience the benefits of aromatherapy firsthand while making massage oil, cream, room sprays, diffuser blends, bath salts, sinus inhalers and steams. Add an exciting dimension to your practice while supporting your own personal health and wellness. NO MASSAGE EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!
To register or for more information please contact Christina at 352-222-1747 or e-mail christinapolnyj@mac.com

The Art of Presence: Accessing the Parasympathetic
2019-02-24 09:00 - 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Dates: Multiple dates available
Time: 9AM-6PM
Workshop Price: $150 ($125 if registered at least three weeks in advance $250 if registered for both Saturday and Sunday classes)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Credits: ★ Florida: 9
To Register: Contact Frank Merillat at 352-371-0743 or e-mail at fmerillat@mac.com
The ability to be present with another human being is key to healing. In this one-day class, students will explore the sensations of touch long before skin to skin contact. Then, once tactile, the somatic communication among fascia, the nervous system, the endocrine system and the use of presence will be explored through experience. Through massage techniques, we will enrich and enliven our sensory capacity to perceive and communicate presence and encourage the body to enter the parasympathetic state, which allows for relaxation, rejuvenation and a sense of meditative calm. This class will focus on applying the art of presence to all types of bodywork modalities to increase the effectiveness and the depth of transformational healing.

Act Now!
Questions: fmerillat@mac.com

About the Instructors
Frank Merillat has been an instructor at the Florida School of Massage since 1995. He teaches Kinesiology, Neuromuscular Therapy, and Boundary and Ethics in the basic program. He also offers several different CEU courses as both and instructor and provider. He offers an eclectic approach to bodywork combining elements from several styles of work to customize the work to meet the individual client. He has studied with Deane Juhan, Tom Myers, Ben Benjamin, as well as Giorgia and Hugh Milne, all noted instructors in the bodywork field. His time with these noted instructors is incorporated into his teaching style and approach to the body. He enjoys time with his family, dogs and on the salt water, as well as working with people.

Amanda Concha-Holmes merges her training as a cultural anthropologist with her practice as a massage therapist and her love of ensemble contact improvisation dance. In her massage practice (licensed in 2010) and in the classes she teaches, she integrates her training in Reiki and in Thai massage with her years of teaching Transformational movement, ecosenses and partner yoga. For the last few years, she has been dedicated to crafting her practice around chair massage to be able to offer healing touch to people in their daily lives. She looks forward to sharing the conceptual and experiential aspects of reaching the parasympathetic state along with anatomy essentials and techniques in a chair massage practice that will become a source of clients for a career in table and Thai massage at the office.

Essential Anatomy and Techniques for chair massage
2019-02-23 09:00 - 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Dates: Multiple dates available
Time: 9AM-6PM
Workshop Price: $150 ($125 if registered at least three weeks prior. $250 if registered for both Saturday and Sunday classes)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Credits: ★ Florida: 9
To Register: Contact Frank Merillat at 352-371-0743 or e-mail at fmerillat@mac.com
Chair massage is an ever-increasing tool used by massage therapists to expand their clientele, reach a new customer base and offer healing touch to those in need. It is excellent for marketing as well as for a profession on its own. Increasingly more businesses are requesting chair massage as a gift or a service for their employees. Wedding planners, grocery stores, hotels and hospitals are some of the varied businesses that appreciatively pay for chair massage services.
This course will examine the basic anatomy of the neck, shoulders, arms and lower back that a massage practitioner can access while doing chair massage. It will integrate multimedia teaching tools along with activities that illustrate upon the human form the basic muscle structures including their origins and insertions. Students will learn where the muscles are located, how they function, and specific techniques to address them during a chair massage to relieve pain and tension. Students will walk away with a routine of their own that integrates the techniques from the class, which allows them to offer a 15-minute chair massage session confidently. Time will also be spent exploring how to market and promote a chair-based practice.

Act Now!
Questions: fmerillat@mac.com
About the Instructors
Frank Merillat has been an instructor at the Florida School of Massage since 1995. He teaches Kinesiology, Neuromuscular Therapy, and Boundary and Ethics in the basic program. He also offers several different CEU courses as both and instructor and provider. He offers an eclectic approach to bodywork combining elements from several styles of work to customize the work to meet the individual client. He has studied with Deane Juhan, Tom Myers, Ben Benjamin, as well as Giorgia and Hugh Milne, all noted instructors in the bodywork field. His time with these noted instructors is incorporated into his teaching style and approach to the body. He enjoys time with his family, dogs and on the salt water, as well as working with people.

Amanda Concha-Holmes merges her training as a cultural anthropologist with her practice as a massage therapist and her love of ensemble contact improvisation dance. In her massage practice (licensed in 2010) and in the classes she teaches, she integrates her training in Reiki and in Thai massage with her years of teaching Transformational movement, ecosenses and partner yoga. For the last few years, she has been dedicated to crafting her practice around chair massage to be able to offer healing touch to people in their daily lives. She looks forward to sharing the conceptual and experiential aspects of reaching the parasympathetic state along with anatomy essentials and techniques in a chair massage practice that will become a source of clients for a career in table and Thai massage at the office.

Connective Tissue Therapy: The Frontline
2019-02-16 09:00 - 2019-02-17 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Maura Brady
Date: Saturday – Sunday, February 16 – 17, 2019
Time: 9AM-6PM
Workshop Price: $250 early registration (if paid by Feb 1st), $295 after, and $150 to repeat
Location: Florida School of Massage
CEUs: 18 Florida
To Register, Contact: Maura Brady, maurakbrady@gmail.com or call 352 371 7327

This workshop will delve into the components of back issues via the frontline, addressing primarily the anterior aspects of the trunk, shoulder girdle, and neck. Derived from structural integration session one, the breath, we will explore the fascia of pectoralis minor, subscapularis, subclavius, diaphragm, and abdominals, as well as scalenes, SCM, and the iliopsoas. Tending to these areas can be the key to unwinding patterns of chronic sensation. Learn new tools to address your clients’ needs, while having the opportunity to explore your own, in a setting that combines fun and reverence.
About the Instructor:
Maura Brady, LMT teaches Connective Tissue Therapy, Polarity Therapy, and Communication Skills in the program at the Florida School of Massage. She has been on the teaching staff since 1996 and has been in private practice since 1992. She values the exploration of physical and emotional connections within ourselves and with our clients. Maura brings her insights from life experience and personal work into the classroom. She loves teaching and providing students the space for growth as individuals and therapists. Maura specializes in connective tissue therapy. Working with the fascia in this way has immediate and long term effects for postural deviations, injuries, and chronic pain, by assisting the body to move in a balanced way in this field of gravity.
Supplies:
Please bring sheets, pillow, shea butter or cocoa butter, and you!

If you would like to register, or if you have any questions, please contact Maura at:
maurakbrady@gmail.com or call 352 371 7327

An Introduction to Craniosacral Work: History, Foundations, & Distinguishing the 3 Main Approaches
2019-02-02 09:00 - 2019-02-03 18:00 UTC | Mary’s office, 1810 NW 6th Street, Suite D, Gainesville, 32609
Location:
Mary’s office
1810 NW 6th Street, Suite D
Gainesville, FL 32609

Cost:
Early Registration Discount: $300 if paid by July 21st
After July 21st: $350
Current FSM Students: $175
CEs:
16 Live Hours
To Register: Contact Mary Reis, email: maryreis@me.com or call/text: 352-246-6280 or fill out registration form here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScfzCVxPaSmsB0oBJbIyObD90A7MI-lki6V3ma8UoRFIEI11A/viewform
William Garner Sutherland developed and refined Cranial Osteopathy over the course of several decades in the first half of the 20th century, and the work continued to evolve after his death in 1954. Craniosacral programs became available to Massage Therapists when Dr. John Upledger began teaching Craniosacral TherapyTM to non-Osteopaths in the 1980’s. Many different Craniosacral programs for Massage Therapists now exist, and 3 main approaches have descended from Dr. Sutherland’s teachings: Biomechanical, Functional, and Biodynamic. Many programs blend one or more of the approaches, and many potential practitioners are unaware of the differences unless they attend more than one school. This course seeks to introduce the 3 main approaches to the work so that Massage Therapists can attend the craniosacral training that is most in alignment with their learning interests.
This course will present the foundational components of the 3 main approaches to Craniosacral work, explore the basic anatomy and functioning of the craniosacral system, and discuss how states of consciousness can influence cranial wave. Experiential exercises will help refine presence, and ample hands-on exchanges will hone the needed sensitivity for working with the subtle rhythms. Students will leave the course with the presence and ability to sense some of the cranial enfoldments, an understanding of the history and uniqueness of each approach, and a direct body-felt sense of which approach they may want to pursue for more training.
Please bring:
1 bottom sheet + 2 top sheets, light blanket, 2 pillows

Beyond Trigger Points Postural Dysfunctions Core Unit: Creative solutions to 5 linked "Hunchaholic" pain conditions
2019-01-26 09:00 - 2019-01-27 18:00 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Date: Sat & Sun JAN 26-27 20189 Time: 9AM – 6PM Workshop
Price: $295
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 16
To Register: BeyondTriggerPoints.com/FastTrack

In this fun, fast-paced Intensive, you’ll learn proven & field-tested Myofascial Trigger Point protocols for relieving the most common myofascial pain conditions: Headaches…Wrist pain…Buttocks…Elbow pain…
Front-of-shoulder pain. Discover easy pain relief strategies you can apply to any region of the body, and get Self-Care training plus 6 weeks of FREE Follow-Up Online Enrichment too. In just 2 days you’ll upgrade your therapist skill set to a higher level of professionalism. And you’ll discover pain relief strategies you can apply in any region of the body to solve your clients’ stubborn pain conditions.

If you are serious about advancing your career, this Seminar is a great way to “professionalize” your practice:

Develop your “Pain Detective” skills to accurately treat the top 5 myofascial pain conditions
Integrate these techniques in your practice using the Connect the Dots SystemSM Five-Step Treatment Protocol
Learn to use a Muscle Mystery Form to identify factors that cause & perpetuate pain
Upgrade your intake & evaluation skills & create step-by-step progressive protocols that really work
Practice a faster, less demanding method to restore range of motion – works with any muscle!

Cathy Cohen, LMT is a Master Teacher & Board-Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist who trained with Trigger Point Therapy’s founder, Dr. Janet Travell. Cathy has mentored over 2,500 therapists in her innovative Connect The Dots SystemSM of Trigger Point therapy designed to easily integrate into a traditional massage practice.

Peaceful Presence - The Ancient Art of Chi Kung
2019-01-12 09:00 - 2019-01-13 15:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Date: January 12 – 13, 2019
Time: Saturday – 9 am to 5 pm
Sunday – 9 am to 3 pm
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 14 CE credits

Learn ancient exercises for easy daily practice and self care
Discover your own inner guidance for healing and transformation
Explore therapeutic principles of essential oils for balancing the nervous system and focusing the mind
Understand how current science supports ancient principles of the Body, Mind, & Spirit as One
Practice hands on sensing chi (energy) using the Meridian System in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Nourish yourself and enjoy the benefits of embodying a peaceful presence

Description:
Through Traditional Chinese Medicine we will study Chi Kung as a technique for sensing and developing internal energy. In this hands-on workshop, we will practice exercises for cultivating a peaceful presence and a sense of a sacred home within yourself. As your awareness of your internal chi strengthens, you will learn how to translate that awareness into your own personal practice. Reduce stress, increase vitality, and learn how to bring the many benefits of Chi Kung to your clients, friends, family, and all whom you encounter.
No prior experience required

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Thai Massage: Phase II Expanding Vocabulary
2019-01-05 09:00 - 2019-01-06 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Ariela Grodner
Time: 9AM-6PM
Workshop Price: $300($210 for current FSM students)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 18 Florida and National
To Register: Contact Ariela at 813-417-6745 or email arielagrodner@yahoo.com
This workshop is intended for those students who have already familiarized themselves with the Thai Massage practice through taking Thai 1, and are now ready to deepen their knowledge and widen their vocabulary. We will extensively review the Thai 1 material, both strengthening knowledge of the form itself and deepening awareness within the exercises, in order to bring our consciousness to a more subtle level during the healing process.
We will also be focusing on variations of the previously learned exercises in order to widen our palette and allow ourselves more options when cultivating an individualized session tailored to a clients particular needs. As students participating in this class will already have some familiarity with the form we will be able to focus on deepening the knowledge we already possess and enabling more advanced techniques to arise.

Body Butter Blending
2018-12-01 09:00 - 2018-12-02 18:00 UTC | FL
CE Credits: 18 Florida
Date: Saturday – Sunday, December 1-2, 2018
Time: 9AM-6PM
Tuition: $250
Location: Gainesville
To register, visit: http://www.essentialeducationinternational.com
Everything is Better with Butter
Better Skin
Better Massage
Better Health

Learn a multilayered approach for healthy skin
Gain a deeper understanding of Aromatherapy and how to utilize it at home and professionally.
Become proficient in creating your own personal Body Butter Blend
Make skin nourishing butters, cream, salve and luscious lip balm
Discover the therapeutic value of what you put on your skin

Learning safety guidelines and basic blending skills is all you need to begin to enjoy the therapeutic use of butters and essential oils. In this class we will study why chemistry matters and gain an understanding of how to apply that knowledge to your skin. We will study a variety of butters and essential oils and their therapeutic benefits and individual uses, including immune support, reducing inflammation, pain management and stress reduction. Participants will experience the benefits of aromatherapy firsthand while making skin nourishing butters, cream, salves and lip balm. Add an exciting dimension to your practice while supporting your own health and wellness.
NO MASSAGE EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

About the Instructor:
Christina Polnyj, BA, LMT is a Clinical Aromatherapist and Massage Therapist with Essential Education International, Inc. Since 1993 she has been teaching Shiatsu, Oriental Theory, and Massage to health care professionals and the public. She is passionate about Aromatherapy and providing people with the skills to use essential oils at home and professionally.
To register or for more information please visit http://www.essentialeducationinternational.com

Thai Massage: Phase I - Introduction to Thai Massage
2018-12-01 09:00 - 2018-12-02 18:00 UTC | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Instructor: Ariela Grodner
Time: 9AM-6PM
Workshop Price: $300 ($210 for current FSM students)
Location: Florida School of Massage
CE Hours: 18 Florida and National
To Register, Contact: Ariela at 813-417-6745 or email arielagrodner@yahoo.com

Description: Traditional Thai Massage is an ancient healing technique that has been in popular use in Asia since the time of The Buddha (roughly 500 b.c.). The practice itself manifests as a flowing dance that synthesizes the cumulative knowledge and techniques of many disciplines. Doctor Skivagakorpaj, Ayurvedic Master and personal physician to the Buddha, is considered the originator of the form. Employing the graceful rooted movement of internal martial arts and the compassionate mindfulness instilled by the meditative experience of the practice, Thai Massage is taught both as a form to follow and also as a key to improvisational bodywork. The essence of the practice is self-awareness, and the fluid expression that naturally extends from that awareness. During this class we will explore the core movements, stances, hand techniques and rooted breath awareness necessary for a strong foundation in the art.
Over the course of this first workshop, students will learn an hour and a half long form. Practiced on the floor, this form enables the therapist the use of elbows, knees, forearms and feet in a comfortable and efficient way that utilizes the body dynamic and ones own weight to distribute the force required for the application of the relevant techniques. The recipient lies relaxed and loosely clothed while the practitioner guides them through a series of yogic asanas and applies balancing touch to the body’s major energy lines and points. Thai Massage is an art whose ultimate objective is a perfected self-awareness through the joy of a mutually beneficial healing dance. Level 1 provides the necessary foundation for future techniques to be based upon, but also can serve as a stand alone practice, in and of itself, as students will learn a complete form during this class.

Common Injuries
2018-11-17 09:00 - 2018-11-18 16:00 (America/New_York) | Florida School of Massage, 6421 SW 13th St, Gainesville, FL, 32608, United States
Date: November 17-18, 2018
Time: Saturday – 9 am to 5 pm
Sunday – 9 am to 4 pm
Location: Florida School of Massage
Instructor: Ben Benjamin
CE Hours: 13 CE credits
Cost: $398 ($298 if registered during registration period)

Description:
This workshop was designed by Dr. Benjamin to help massage therapists and bodyworkers assess and treat specific common injuries to the shoulder, elbow, low back, knee and ankle that challenge and frustrate most practitioners. The workshop provides training in anatomy assessment tests, treatment techniques and client exercises for seven of the most common injuries.

What to Bring: CLOTHING: Please wear easily movable, loose clothing, like a top that opens in the back, bathing suit, sports bra, shorts and so forth so that your neck, mid-back, low back and sacral area, knees and ankles can be easily accessed while maintaining a sense of privacy.
PLEASE BRING: Please bring a pillow, massage oil, a towel, a few face cradle covers, and two sheets.
About the Instructor: Ben Benjamin holds a Ph.D. in Sports Medicine and was the Founder and President of the Muscular Therapy Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He has trained under Dr. James Cyriax, widely known for their pioneering work in orthopedic medicine. Dr. Benjamin is the author of many articles on working with injuries as well as the widely used books in the field, Are You Tense? Exercise Without Injury and Listen to Your Pain. He has been in private practice for over forty-five years and teaches throughout the country.
Questions: Contact the Benjamin Institute, 617-576-0777
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