The Alliance for Massage Therapy Education has just released a 16-page booklet that gives all the details on the new dues and membership structure, and an enhanced suite of benefits. It also details the educational program for the Alliance 2011 Annual Conference, to be held August 18-20 in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina.

You can access the booklet from the sidebar on any page of the Alliance website a href="http://www.afmte.org>">http://www.afmte.org>; or from this direct link:

a href="http://www.flipdocs.com/showbook.aspx?ID=10000677_686810>">http://www.flipdocs.com/showbook.aspx?ID=10000677_686810>;

Until July 1, you can get a $100 early registration discount on the Conference. Alliance members receive an additional $100 discount on the registration fee.

We hope you will join us for an important gathering of the education community, as we explore this year's theme of "Bringing Teaching to the Next Level".

Rick Rosen, Executive Director
Alliance for Massage Therapy Education

Listening to some fantastic webinars for schools, instructors and students on the ABMP-sponsored Education Day at  the World Massage Conference! 
www.worldmassageconference.com

Effective Teaching Strategies: Connecting the Lesson to the
Learner

with Susan Salvo and Daniel Norris, PhD.

Please join Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP), Susan Salvo, and Daniel Norris, PhD, for an engaging webinar on creating more active learning environments. Both educators are experts in creating effective lessons for adult learners and their philosophy is simple: the more you understand your students, the more you can develop and apply strategies to help them achieve success.

The webinar "Connecting the Lesson to the Learner" will take you behind the scenes and inside your students’ minds to examine what motivates them in the educational process. You will learn strategies regarding the adult learning model that are effective for both traditional classroom learning and distance learning. The result? Active learning environments.

http://www.abmp.com/webinars/

Exploring Chakras, 12 CE hours, Lafayette, La.  A unique and interesting exploration of your chakras and aura.  July 23 & 24 aura photos included

I'd like to extend an invitation to list in my massage directory...the basic listing is free.Synergistic Center Massage Directory

Join us Oct.6-9 at Privai Academy in Asheville, NC for Thai Massage Level 1

Registration details provided in link: http://ymlp.com/zaFGrT

Teacher Training Intensive
August 12-14 Raleigh, NC
Training for massage school teachers and for those who would like to teach at a massage school.

NCBTMB CE hours are awarded.
Instructor: Nancy Toner Weinberger

Visit http://www.dynamicequilibrium.com/TTI-ClassDescription.htm for details.

Become a Continuing Education Provider- or just teach like one!

Teaching Skills for the Workshop Leader

Chicago, Illinois - Thursday-Sunday, November 3-6, 2011
Times: 9:30AM to 6:00PM on Thursday-Saturday. 9:30AM to 12:30PM on Sunday. Additional optional non-credit hours on Sunday 1:30PM-3:30PM

Location: Courtyard Marriott Oakbrook Terrace

This is a true workshop, limited to 12 participants. Yes, you will get lots of information about designing your class, marketing it, and actually teaching it. But you will also put what you learn to use right in this workshop. Come prepared to write syllabi, learning objectives and lesson plans for your class, actually try out part of your presentation with your classmates, prepare a written plan for implementation of your marketing strategy, decide what level of certification is right for you, and if it is National Certification, actually begin to fill out the NCBTMB application at the end of the class. The learning you will get in this class will apply to all state agency requirements, and even other disciplines.  

Visit www.dynamicequilibrium.com/TSWL-ClassDescription.htm for details.

Hello all, I am so happy to be joining this group.  I am very very new to massage professionals but so excited there is something like this out here on the web.

I am starting the accreditation process with COMTA and I would love anyones feed back on this issue/process.  I appreciate all thoughts and comments. Thank you!!!

October Certification Workshop in Minneapolis, MN!

Start earning additional income as a Certified Injury Prevention Instructor (CIPI)!

Complete three online courses and attend one live weekend workshop to become certified. There is still plenty of time to register for the program and complete the courses before attending our next workshop in MN.

Next Live CIPI Workshop: Oct. 14-16 at the Aveda Institute; Minneapolis, MN

Hope to meet you in Minneapolis!

I wanted to share with you a huge "ah-ha" moment I had yesterday.  This idea touched my heart deeply and I am curious to see if anyone else has implemented it. 

Yesterday we had a Holistic Nurse come in to speak on how healing happens and self care.  It was beyond what I expected and was very moving.  One of the points she touched on is one we as instructors teach our students; grounding before session.  But she took this a step further and talked about how the massage room was "sacred ground".  Well this did make sense to me, but what I heard in my heart right after she said this was "treat your classroom as sacred".  Wow!  That idea had never crossed my mind!  I can get so wrapped up in everything I need to do, teach, & communicate that I had never bothered to even consider that.  So now I am making it a personal goal, to set my intention for each class before I enter the "sacred learning space". 

Thank you so much for sharing this. Nice to know I am not alone here. I have implemented this concept into my classroom over the past few years because of a need to get the student's attention. I teach night students and they come in after a super hectic day of working, caring for children and family, and getting little to no rest at night due to the demands of personal life and school. Balance is just something that becomes a sacrifice for them during their school career. I didn't like seeing them so distraught and often times felt like I was teaching them to create a healing space for their clients when they had NO IDEA how to create a healing space for themselves. Here are a few things I do that help them learn this skill:

1. The first 15 minutes of each class day is set aside for a grounding activity, designed to get them "here" and in the present moment. Some days we just talk it out. I check in and give them an opportunity to share the highlights of their day. Sometimes, I will share mine. Reminds them that I am a real person too. Other days, we do something called a "jumpstart" activity, which may include one or two simple questions they should discuss with a partner about the lesson we are working on. Not a grade, no pressure. Just warms them up and gets them in the right state of mind. I also use journaling as a way to set the pace for the class too.

2. During stressful periods in the curriculum and before they start their clinicals each day, I lead a yoga/breathing/meditation/self care class. They get to put on their "comfy clothes" and take some time for themselves while learning the importance of these exercises for their clients too. (a video will work for this if you do not want to lead the exercises yourself)

3. Listening to music in the classroom when they are working on an independent assignment. 

4. Writing classroom objectives on the board while the students write them with you and then discussing. Sets the tone for the day and helps keep the classroom organized.

I enjoyed reading your comment and sharing these ideas with you! 

Wonderful "ah-ha" Kris, and thank you for bringing this into the light.

We can create that sacred space anyplace indeed!

For each class I teach,  I go in prior to the students- either the night before or in the morning -  sometimes I bring sage ( mind the smoke detectors  folks, they get set off easily!  lol ) and other good things in to clear, balance and charge the room. I also have my aromatherapy blend diffusing, and music on.  When they walk in that door they feel the energy difference in the room immediately.  I invite them to be present and do some breathwork and stretching to bring everyone into focus, and then open all the heart chakras in the group. I encourage my students to always create a sacred space too,  and how to do so. Very  very important!  Namaste'~

Massage Pro C.E. is creating a 2012 Schedule and will be hosting many of our popular Massage Instructors. This year in our North Carolina home office, Karen Kowal, Sharon Puszko, Vicky Karr and more will be joining us!

Also, some very special Hawaiian Kahu guests will be teaching about Ho'oponopono and Hawaiian Values.

Visit www.MassageProCE.com for upcoming details

Of course I have my Lomi trainings all year too!

Great information being shared during today's Education Day at the World Massage Conference!  www.worldmassageconference.com 

The presentations as part of Education Day at World Massage Conference are fantastic. Two more presentations before the end of the day. http://worldmassageconference.com/newsletter/16-novb.html

Exciting and Unique Upcoming CE classes, Lafayette, La.

Feb.11 & 12, 2012, Energetic Trauma Release and Mind, Body Self care strategies

Recently I've been asked for guidance and direction from manual therapists concerning treatment of some pretty in-depth injuries they are treating.
I sat and thought about what advise I would have liked to have had when I was first starting my career 18yrs ago.
I've written "Part 1" of this series in an effort to provide some perspective into assessment and treatments of our patients.
Let me know what you think.
http://www.lastsite.ca/blog/

Offerings of Perspective and Guidance in Providing Treatment: The Thorax Part 1
 http://www.lastsite.ca/blog/offerings-of-perspective-and-guidance-i...

Two GREAT teaching resources

1) Article on MASSAGE EFFECTS (based on Scientific Research) by JoEllen Sefton, PhD, ATC, CMT

http://www.wix.com/cmjenn/ss#!vstc2%3dchp

2) Video on MASSAGE HISTORY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg-MFMGjYc8&list=UUVROW6MqPGRRog...

Thanks Susan! Always looking for new resources on the history of massage. The students typically get  a little bored with that one :)

Sorry, the Sefton article on Research Based Massage Effect did not post correctly. Try using this link.

Massage Educators in Texas - please list your classes here:

http://www.txmassageforum.com/ceu_city

Attention Wisconsin Reflexologists, Reflexology educators and those interested in the Reflexology modality--Wisconsin is re-forming its state Reflexology association. Become part of this historic event by participating in a FREE teleconference call. Get your voice heard!

Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Time: 8:15 p.m.

Agenda

1) Roll Call

2) By-Law status

3) Information gathering efforts: County, City, village, Town, USA schools.

4) New name considerations

5) Mass mailing consideration

6) Set next meeting date

7) Adjourn

If you would like to join in, dial (605) 475-4700. Enter 446324, then # key at the prompt. Look forward to "seeing" you there!

ALLIANCE PUBLISHES COMPREHENSIVE TEACHER STANDARDS DOCUMENT

The Alliance for Massage Therapy Education has completed Phase 1 of its National Teacher Education Standards Project, and is pleased to announce the publication of the Core Competencies for Massage Therapy Teachers. This document – the first of its kind in the massage therapy field – describes the foundational knowledge, skills and attitudes (KSAs) needed for teachers to produce successful and consistent outcomes with adult learners in a variety of educational settings.

These comprehensive standards apply to the work of teachers across the entire continuum of massage therapy education, from entry-level training programs to post-graduate studies. They also apply to teachers throughout the arc of their professional careers.

In December 2010, the Alliance launched the National Teacher Education Standards Project (TESP) as part of its long-term commitment to strengthen and improve the quality of massage therapy education. This endeavor is both timely and essential because the majority of instructors in this field have not received formal training in the theory and methodology of teaching. As well, there are few jurisdictions that uphold competency standards for massage therapy teachers.

The Core Competencies will provide guidance to classroom teachers, continuing education providers, schools, national accrediting commissions, state regulatory agencies and other organizations in the massage therapy field.

The National Teacher Education Standards Project (TESP) will be carried out through a series of five phases: With Phase 1 now finished, the Alliance moves into Phases 2 and 3, which involve the creation of a model teacher training curriculum and the identification and development of training resources. To ensure that teachers have achieved the competencies, a voluntary certification program will be established as Phase 4. The final step will involve working with school accreditors and regulators to incorporate these teacher education standards. Overall, it's estimated the TESP will take 5-10 years.

The Alliance's Professional Standards Committee was responsible for the development of this document. A diverse group of experienced teachers, CE providers and massage school directors researched existing teacher standards throughout the realms of public education and specialized professional education. The committee incorporated some of these well-researched templates, adding to them the unique nature and attributes of massage therapy education. Throughout the process, important feedback on working drafts was obtained from attendees at the Alliance's 2011 and 2012 Annual Conferences, as well as through public comment periods. The finished product is a true community effort.

According to Alliance President Pete Whitridge, LMT, "The establishment of the Core Competencies is a landmark achievement in the massage therapy field. Now that these standards are in place, we are shifting our focus to the practical tasks of implementation. In the months and years to come, the Alliance will provide resources to assist individuals and institutions in the process of meeting these standards, for the ultimate benefit of students and clients of massage therapy."

In ongoing support of this project, the Alliance will focus on the theme of "Creating a Culture of Teaching Excellence" for it's 2013 Annual Conference. This event will be held July 18-20 in St. Charles, Missouri, and will feature workshops and discussion forums about the process of implementing teacher standards. The Alliance looks forward to the input of all who attend this conference, as these voices and perspectives shape the future of massage therapy education.

NCBTMB " HEALING THE HEALER"- New Approved CE Home Study course. This is self-paced  and open to everyone. Self healing tools for bodyworkers and caregivers. 3 CE hrs. for $33.00. www.shirleyknapp.com/healingthehealerhomestudycourse.html

i wonder: if the Alliance has published a document, is it available? is this something i can read? thanks

Here's a short link to access the AFMTE Core Competencies for Massage Therapy Teachers: http://goo.gl/LT4w6. This document is also available from AFMTE website.

 "Developing Your Intuition" Distance Learning Teleclass Mon. Nov.18-Dec 23. Six NCBTMB CE Hours!
7-8 pm EST. recorded on Skype so you won't miss a class. Open to everyone! www.shirleyknapp.com/developyourintuitionclass.html
Available in Home Study format!
NCBTMB Approved Provider for Continuing Education #450819-08
www.shirleyknapp.com

Great News! I am now approved by the NC Board of Cosmetic Arts to provide CE's for Cosmetologists, Estheticians, Nail techs and Natural Hair Care Specialists.  I am an NCBTMB Approved Provider for Continuing Education as well as a Florida CeBroker.  Check out my Home Study & Spring Classes at www.shirleyknapp

http://www.SynergisticCenter.com

Energetic Trauma Release and Mind Body Self Care Strategies workshop, Lafayette, La. March 1 & 2nd, 2014. La LMT's get 12 approved CE hours. Open to all. Learn an energetic trauma technique for yourself, loved ones, clients. Mind Body Self care strategies offers a wonderful day of taking care of yourself, walking the labyrinth and much more.
 Synergistic Healing

        I just got another email from a woman whose father had surgery, sinus surgery in this case, and has been on a catheter, unable to urinate on his own, for a year.  People have had fantastic success with the self help video on our website on how to restore bladder function after surgery.  The work is so easy, they can do it on each other, but they prefer real therapists do the work.

        This means we need to teach it to more people.  I never realized how widespread this problem was.  We get emails from all over the world from people who are desperate for help.  The ones who try the SMRT work have great results, but some have no one who can do the work for them or their people do not feel they could do the work.

        This week alone I have gotten 3 emails on this issue.  I sent one to a student in NC, one to a student in AZ, and the other is the woman mentioned above, who is in WV.  I will have to do my best to coach her through email and hope she is willing to do the work on her father herself.

        This is only one of the amazing things that will be taught in the SMRT: Hips, Lower Back, & Abdomen course in Winter Park, FL on April 4-6, 2014.  http://efullcircle.com/class-schedule/

Since cervical ligaments aren't composed of contractile tissue, I am not clear about what you suggest your are doing physiologically when you "release" them. Can you explain what you mean by "releasing" the ligaments?
Thanks

Hi Dawn:
Thanks for sending that information over. It was an interesting chapter from that book. You are absolutely correct that there is new research indicating contractile cells at the cellular level in tissues that originally were thought not to have any contractile properties at all. However, we have to be careful not to make the cognitive leap from the presence of contractile cells at the cellular level to suggesting that tissues such as ligament (which don't have strong enough contractile units) could generate enough force to actually shorten the tissue. The contractile capability at the cellular level does appear to play an important role in proprioception, but without a strong contractile unit cannot generate enough force to change the tissue length. 

Also you suggested that a lateral ankle sprain which would lead to laxity in the lateral ankle ligaments would produce a corresponding shortening of the deltoid ligament. Again, this seems to be making a leap with physiology that is not accurate. Just because one ligament gets overstretched, does not mean that the ligament on the opposing side of the joint would become shortened the way you frequently see this pattern with muscle tissue. I would love to learn more about this if you have any specific research information that shows ligaments actually contracting and causing shortening of the ligament tissue itself. 

I am also still unclear about what you say is happening physiologically when you "release" a ligament... meaning what are you actually doing to a ligament to release it. 

Thanks again very much for sharing that information. Just trying to make sure I understand your perspective

I'm glad you guys discussing this issue . Since Fascia Congress, when findings of constructible elements within connective tissue was presented , 100s “NEW” methodology to release this tension based on this data was proposed. Very misleading, and  damaging phenomena, distracting  from spending treatment time to achieve sustainable and fast results. Additional to what Whitney Lowe have said, I would like to mention that connective tissue including ligaments, even if would have sufficient quantities of constructible fibers, never would be able to constrict because there is no connective tissue /nerve junction similar to muscles/nerve junctions.

In regards to importance to address ligaments. Tension within ligaments exactly like tensions within fascia can be increased due to metabolic disturbances, and we do have to release it, but by specifically designed techniques. Mainly directly we can address supraspinous and interspinous  ligaments. When working on C/spine ask client to flex/ bend forward approximately 20-25°, placing head on  forehead. Place  thumb between 2 spinous processes, and then gradually increasing pressure perform like traction action. 1st pressure slightly must be applied against ligament, and then have to be directed against  spinous processes located above within the same segment you are addressing. Repeat the same ligament release techniques on each segment of C/spine.

Best wishes.

Boris

PS. Whitney. I'm glad you have reacted, on post. It is important issue. I just regret, when in groups I have argued the same issue, you didn't offer your opinion like  here at this discussion. Probably if you would support my similar statements like you made here, it wouldn't be an issue here. We all can contribute and learn from each other. For sake of clients and our industry we have to work together. I hope more educators will participate, and will offer opinions on wrong, misleading proposals.

Dawn:

I don't doubt That you have been able to help people to improve range of motion and relieve pain with a particular technique or method you have developed. However, you can't invent biomechanical properties of tissues that don't exist and say that exist simply because you "feel" them. It is one thing if you want to say something like... "while there is not sufficient research evidence yet, here is a theoretical model for what I think is happening." Where we get into trouble and lose credibility is advocating an explanation that defies the current laws of physiology and claiming it to be a fact without any evidence. I would still welcome any explanation or theoretical model you have about  what is happening physiologically when you "release" ligaments. 

I am also curious about your statement: "I released the cervical ligaments and mobilized the cervical vertebrae for 10 mknutes. I deliberately did no muscle work." Since myofascial tissues completely cover all the ligaments in the cervical region, how are you able to work on the ligaments without affecting the overlying muscles that you are pressing through? 

I hope it is clear in my points that there is a distinction between academic debate (which this is), and personal animosity or attack (which it isn't). Academic debate is a critical and essential part of learning and growth in any discipline. Einstein, Heisenberg, and Bohr, for example, had vigorous and often vehement debates about the nature of relativity which helped each of them grow in their understanding as their own theories were critically evaluated and analyzed.

I am not looking for specific language, just a physiological explanation of what supposedly happens to make a ligament shorten if the ligament doesn't have contractile power to fully shorten itself. And, similarly, what is happening to the ligament to achieve the release. You say the "fibers of the ligament are balanced" but I don't understand what you mean by "balanced". How does the ligament actually lengthen? I am fine hearing and considering your theory even if it is not proven by research yet. I am just looking for an explanation that also fits within the biomechanical properties of each tissue and is not just based on one person's visualization of what they think they feel. For example, tissue may feel like it is "melting" because it becomes softer when I work on it and there is an increased degree of warmth. I might then suggest that when I do massage work tissues are melting underneath my hand. However, we know tissues don't melt from manual manipulation so that is not a realistic explanation. 

It does seem that there are some language issues here that are making this difficult for me to understand. I think as educators we must be able to explain these things to our students. For example, you said you can "open up the cervical ligaments from the sacrum," Since none of the cervical ligaments span more than a single joint, could you explain what you mean by that? I assume this has nothing to do with the myofascial connections through the spine as you said you are working on the ligaments in isolation without working on muscular tissues.