SYLLABUS
The course is divided into three
components:
Anatomy & Physiology
Students are provided with a
sound knowledge of anatomy and physiology, including an understanding of
pathological processes and their effects on bodily functions. Students will then
be able to use this in the practice of massage and aromatherapy.
Basic Therapeutic Massage
Students are given an
understanding of the history of massage, basic Swedish techniques and benefits
and contraindications, upon which they will base their practice of aromatherapy.
Other techniques are also touched upon.
Aromatherapy
This section is divided into two
areas:
Theory
This covers the philosophy of
aromatherapy and its development as an holistic therapy. Students will study
50 essential oils in detail, including botanical families, formation of oils
within plants, chemical composition, extraction, therapeutic effects on the
body and the processes of absorption and olfaction. They will also study 14
carrier oils used in massage and other topical treatments, which will
include the use of hydrosols. There will be a session introducing research
issues and methodologies in complementary medicine.
Practical
This covers all
aspects of the practice of aromatherapy, such as client assessment,
client-therapist relationship, selection and blending of essential oils and
base oils, massage, home treatments and evaluations. Students practice on
one another, but the final assessment will be on an unknown client supplied
by the students. In addition, specific conditions are discussed, in this and
in the A & P section, as are the principles of healthy living, diet,
exercise and self-development.
SYLLABUS DETAILS
ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
Body systems and
processes.
Digestive system
Cell structure &
function
Respiratory system
Tissue types
Urinary system
Muscular system
Nervous system
Skeletal system
Endocrine system
Integumentary system
Reproductive system
Cardiovascular
system
Lymphatic system
Basic pathology
BASIC THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
History of massage
Remedial exercises
Types of massage
Massage strokes
Benefits
Self massage
Contraindications
Other physical therapies
Recognition, treatment and
referrals for skeletal and soft tissue problems is also covered.
AROMATHERAPY
Theory
History and
development of plant and essential oil usage.
Aromatherapy in modern times
– complementary & the NHS.
Philosophy: concepts of
holism and reductionism.
Skin, touch and massage.
Odours and olfaction.
Stress management.
Composition and properties of
a minimum of 50 essential oils
Essential oils, body systems
and the mind.
Definitions of: essences,
essential oils, gums, resins, absolutes. & resinoids.
Methods of extraction.
Quality of essential oils.
Plant science.
Nutrition.
Base oils (14 minimum)
Absorption & methods of
use
Storage & handling
Common ailments & drugs
Basic chemistry
Research methods and issues
Essential oil
chemistry
Contraindications
Toxicity, safety
Practical
Communication skills
Client handling
Record keeping
Consultations
Setting up practice
Full body massage
Practice management
Facial massage
Steaming, compresses
Blending
Ointments
Baby massage
Codes of ethics and practice
Self care
