Institute of Holistic Studies

LIFE-FORCE was established in 1990 and successfully ran annual Massage and Aromatherapy courses for many years from 1992 with Susan Ager as the Principle Tutor. The courses were taken over in 1996 by Sue who ran the courses as the Ager School of Aromatherapy for over 10 years. More recently, in 2006 due to Sue's retirement, the courses have been taken back by LIFE-FORCE. The courses are therefore well established and our many years of experience are reflected in the quality and depth of the course content.

The courses are intended for those who wish to set up in private practice as a Massage Therapist and/or Aromatherapist, or for those wishing to deepen there understanding of massage and/or aromatherapy, and an holistic approach to life.

The Massage Course is recognised by and leads to membership of ITEC, one of the largest professional associations.

Course Syllabus
The course is run over 11 weekends and includes tuition in:

• Anatomy and Physiology- all body systems
• Massage Theory- The effect of massage physically, emotionally and spiritually
• Massage practical- classical Swedish Massage techniques
• Business studies
• Personal development
• Client handling techniques
• Contraindications to treatment
• Listening skills

Students will be expected to complete assignments including a business study assignment and case studies at home.

Qualification Gained at the End of the Course
The course is fully accredited by ITEC and successful students will be awarded a 'Diploma in Holistic Massage' from ITEC (the verifying and awarding body) and will gain free membership of ITEC. Students will then be able to obtain full professional membership and insurance from The Complimentry Therapy Association(CTHA) and thereby fulfil all legal requirements to be able to practice as a Massage Therapist. The newly qualified practitioner will be able to use the title "ITEC (Dip. Holistic Massage) CTHA" after their name.

Students who gain this qualification can go on to study Aromatherapy and any other ITEC course where anatomy and physiology is required.

Registration Information
This course starts in February and October each year and consists of one weekend per month in-house teaching at the Hythe Community in Colchester Essex. Students are expected to complete assignments, a project related to massage and case studies at home. Students are also expected to broaden their knowledge of other complementary therapies. The course is open access however, it is suggested that a GCSE pass in one or more subjects or relevant life experience would be useful all applications are considered on an individual basis.

Fees and Enrolment
The fee for the Holistic Massage Course is £1,150 including exam fees and this is payable in monthly instalments. Enrolment is by completion of the registration form to be found in the prospectus.

Details of the course are in the prospectus available from the school, please e-mail for your copy: info@lifeforce-centre.co.uk