This course teaches Holistic Massage incorporating the classical movements of effleurage, petrissage, tapotment, friction and vibration which enables the therapist to provide full body, face,scalp and foot massage.
Approximately 60% of course time is devoted to practical techniques. The theory component includes anatomy and physiology, professional conduct, business awareness and first aid.
This is an excellent foundation course for pursuing a career in complementary therapies or further study.
Course Syllabus:

- History of Massage
- Preparation / Equipment for Massage
- Definition of the strokes of Massage [including effleurage, petrissage, tapotment, friction and vibration]
- Sequence of strokes [Full body, Facial, Scalp and Foot massage]
- Effects and Benefits of Massage [mechanical; physiological; reflex effects; psychological and energetic effects]
- Cautions, Contra-indications and Endangerment sites to consider when applying massage techniques.
- Nutrition – understanding the effects of stress on the client’s nutritional status
- Anatomy and Physiology
- The Cell and tissue types
- Integumentary system, the skin and nails
- Directional terminology
- Planes of dissection
- Joint mobility and range of movement
- Skeletal system – location, structure and function including bony prominences for muscle attachments
- Muscular system – muscle properties, muscle function, muscle tone, muscle fatigue
- Study of muscles (myology) – Including origin, insertion and action of the muscles that move the body
- Cardiovascular system – systemic and pulmonary circulation
- Lymphatic system – structure and functions of the lymphatic system
- Digestive system – location, structure and function of organs and glands of the gastro-intestinal tract
- Nervous system – structure and function of nerves, C.N.S and peripheral nervous system
- Endocrine and Reproductive Systems – location , structure and function of the endrocrine glands and reproductive cycle
- Respiratory system – internal and external respiration
- Urinary system – components i.e. kidney, ureter and bladder
- Pathologies associated with each system
- Care of the therapist – posture, safe application of techniques, body mechanics
- Care of the client – record keeping, confidentiality, professionalism
- Business awareness / professionalism – how to establish & promote your massage business
- First Aid
- Relaxation – simple techniques for real relaxation. Learn how to contact the healing energy in the body and how to use it when doing massage
Examinations and Certification

- ITEC Diploma in Holistic Massage
- FETAC Level 6 certificate in Holistic Massage
Cost of Course
Course Fee: €1550
Exam Fee: €110
Examination
Practical examination
Theory examination:
a) Theory of Holistic Massage 1hr multiple choice questions
b) Anatomy & Physiology 1hr multiple choice questions
c) Professional Conduct and Business Awareness 1hr multiple choice questions
20 case studies
Holistic College Dublin results in Holistic Massage exams
The diploma issued by ITEC lists the student’s overall grade in terms of a pass, credit or distinction. An average of the theory and practical marks is combined to obtain the final grade.
A pass grade is between 60% – 74%, A credit is between 75% – 89% and a distinction is between 90% – 100%.
Percentage of our students achieving each grade to date in 2010
Fail Pass Credit Distinction
0% 6% 5o% 44%
Each Student Requires
- 2 Pillows
- 2 Pillow Cases
- 2 Towels
- A uniform is required for the practical examination:
- Black tunic
- Black trousers
- Black footwear
Required Books
- An Introductory Guide to Massage By Louise Tucker
- An Introductory Guide to Anatomy and Physiology (new edition) By Louise Tucker
Times & Dates
Starting Date: Saturday 27th April 2013 – Completion Date: September 2013