8 hr Somatic Massage and the Parasympathetic Response

This 8-hour course will prepare massage therapists to recognize and engage the parasympathetic response in their clients. The parasympathetic response allows the body and mind to release and integrate tension. Students will learn to use their awareness, support, presence, and language to facilitate parasympathetic responses. Students will learn the anatomy of the autonomic nervous system and how to track both sympathetic and parasympathetic states. Upon completing this class, they will guide their clients in activating a parasympathetic response both in their sessions and daily lives. The active parasympathetic response is the foundation of somatic massage.

8.00 CE hours (General) · NCBTMB course ID 70275330 · Beginner · Instructor: Adrienne Engel, NCBTMB Approved Provider

Learning outcomes

1. Define what a parasympathetic response is.
2. List the benefits of creating a parasympathetic response in the client.
3. Describe the sympathetic system that can interrupt the parasympathetic response from occurring.
4. Discuss the anatomy of the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
5. Discuss how the world around us influences our sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.
6. Demonstrate a guided parasympathetic activation.
7. Practice engaging the parasympathetic response in a learning partner.
8. Demonstrate how to draw the flow of the ANS, and talk about sympathetic to parasympathetic flow.

Progress is measured by observation, discussion, verbal quizzes and model building. To receive your certificate, complete every lesson, the six practicum sessions (practicum form) and the end-of-class survey.