Hands-On Massage Experience

Have you heard that 'we need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth'? The simple human touch is a great boost for the immune system, it reduces stress, fights depression and much more. Before you rush towards Hyde Park on a Saturday with 'Free hugs' sign, try this risk-free approach tested by me personally. A therapeutic massage course at London College Of Massage. Not only you will learn how to give massage (and you will receive A LOT during the course, too!) - you will also learn about the power of touch and get more comfortable with it (which seems to be a growing issue in big cities).  Designed for complete beginners, 'Beginners Introductory Weekend Course' at The London College of Massage is an introduction to basic massage techniques & contra-indications. Do not expect to get it easy though! :) Over the course of two full days you will learn quite a lot. I was lucky to be on the course lead by Director and Lead Tutor Mark Salnicki, in addition to presenting the learning material in an easy and comprehensive way, has also contributed to various books, most recently ‘Easy Massage’ published by Eddison Sadd.

The London College of Massage teaches ‘therapeutic’ massage which includes the strokes and techniques from Swedish massage, as well as applies the sensitivity of Intuitive massage. Having started with 'catwalking' which is a great way to do the 'grounding' at the end of the session, we then explored effleurage and petrissage techniques.

Effleurage is a stoke when you use the whole palm surface of both hands making smooth moves up the body towards the heart. Petrissage strokes are designed to press, squeeze and roll the muscles under the skin. While effleurage is very relaxing and brings you a sense of a peace of mind, petrissage helps work through the muscles and relieve the tension.

As a result, you will learn:

• Techniques for ‘seated’ neck, shoulder & head massage
• Back of legs, back, neck & face massage routine
• Towel etiquette
• Contra-indications to massage
• An introduction to Aromatherapy oils

The last but not least - massage oil. Johnson's Baby Oil is (just as its name says) for babies - so keep it out of reach when you are doing the message. Instead, opt for aromatherapy oils that have therapeutic benefits. In need of letting the stress go and relax? Lavender oil is the best choice. Wake up and get an energy boost? Rosemary oil is key. Go for refreshing and uplifting bergamot oil to feel fresh. At the end of the course you will be able to formulate your own personal blend of oils to take home.

Decided? Click here to find out more and sign up for the Beginners Introductory Weekend Course (£145 for both days). The College is conveniently located few mins walk from Russel Square and Chancery Lane. In my opinion, it's best to come with a friend as you'll be learning together - imagine the bonding you will have massaging each other! :)

About London College of Massage

Founded in 1987 by Fiona Harrold, The London College of Massage’s aim was and still is to make massage widely available to all and to improve the standard of training and position it as a recognised complementary therapy within orthodox medicine. The London College of Massage has seen the power of touch transform the lives of many of their students. Massage brings a deep sense of peace through profound relaxation of mind and body. To experience this on an individual level is to begin to create it in the world around you. In this way The London College of Massage intend the study and practice of massage to enhance the quality of life for all. The London College of Massage is a well established school, over 20 years, that takes a personal interest in the quality of the qualified therapist and the standard of massage achieved. The experience of the Directors and tutors ensures that the reputation of the The London College of Massage practitioners is upheld. All of the The London College of Massage tutors have graduated at the school and have been selected because of their massage skills,  knowledge and understanding and their determination & commitment to make you the best massage practitioner you can be.

Mark Salnicki – Director & Lead Tutor

Mark has been with The London College of Massage since 1990 and teaches Beginners to Practitioner level as well as the popular Indian Head Massage workshop. Mark has also contributed to various books, most recently ‘Easy Massage’ published by Eddison Sadd.