Category: Massage Therapy

From Practitioner to Educator: Taking Your Massage Therapy Expertise Nationwide (NCBTMB)

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As massage therapists, many of us begin our careers with a passion for helping clients heal, relax, and improve their quality of life. Over time, as our skills deepen and our experience grows, another calling often emerges—the desire to teach.

Sharing knowledge with fellow therapists can be one of the most rewarding aspects of a massage therapy career. Whether you’re passionate about clinical massage, spa therapies, ethics, self-care, or business development, becoming a continuing education provider allows you to extend your impact far beyond your treatment room.

If you’ve ever considered teaching massage therapy nationwide, understanding the requirements of the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) is an important first step.

Why Teach Continuing Education?

The massage profession thrives when experienced therapists pass their knowledge on to others. Continuing education helps practitioners stay current, refine their skills, and explore new specialties throughout their careers.

Teaching offers many benefits:

  • Establishing yourself as an expert in your field
  • Expanding your professional reach
  • Creating additional income opportunities
  • Supporting the growth of the massage profession
  • Inspiring the next generation of therapists
  • Sharing your passion and experience with colleagues

For many educators, teaching becomes a natural extension of their commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence.

Becoming an NCBTMB Approved Provider

The NCBTMB has established standards to ensure that continuing education courses provide meaningful, relevant, and high-quality learning experiences.

To qualify as an instructor, applicants must demonstrate expertise through education, experience, or specialized training. Qualifications may include:

  • A bachelor’s degree in a field related to the course content
  • Five or more years of professional massage therapy experience
  • At least two years of teaching experience
  • Completion of an NCBTMB-approved teacher training program
  • Advanced education and professional experience in the subject matter being taught

These requirements help maintain educational integrity and ensure students receive instruction from knowledgeable professionals.

Developing High-Quality Courses

Creating an effective continuing education course involves much more than sharing information. Each course should be thoughtfully designed with clear educational objectives and measurable learning outcomes.

When submitting a course for approval, providers must include:

A Clear Course Description

Participants should immediately understand what the course covers and who will benefit from attending.

Learning Objectives

Objectives should clearly describe what participants will know or be able to do after completing the course.

Course Outline

A detailed breakdown helps demonstrate how the content supports the stated learning outcomes.

Supporting Documentation

Course material should be evidence-informed and properly cited. NCBTMB requires providers to ensure that content is original and appropriately referenced.

Understanding Course Formats

Today’s massage educators have more options than ever when it comes to delivering educational content.

In-Person Learning

Face-to-face courses remain a popular format because they allow for hands-on practice, direct feedback, and meaningful interaction between instructors and students.

Home Study Programs

Home study courses provide flexibility for busy professionals and can be delivered through online platforms, written materials, recorded presentations, or email-based instruction.

To ensure learning objectives are met, home study courses require a final examination with a minimum passing score.

Live Webinars

Live webinars combine convenience with real-time interaction, allowing instructors and students to engage regardless of geographic location.

For educators seeking to reach a national audience, webinars have become an invaluable teaching tool.

Choosing Appropriate Course Topics

One of the most exciting aspects of becoming a continuing education provider is the opportunity to teach subjects that inspire you.

Acceptable course topics include:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Kinesiology
  • Research literacy
  • Professional ethics
  • Documentation and assessment
  • Communication skills
  • Massage applications for specific populations
  • Business and marketing strategies
  • Self-care practices
  • Hygiene and infection control
  • Ergonomics and injury prevention
  • Advanced science and healthcare concepts

The key is ensuring that the material directly supports massage therapy practice and professional development.

Staying Within Scope of Practice

One of the most important responsibilities of an educator is understanding the boundaries of massage therapy practice.

NCBTMB does not approve courses that involve:

  • Medical diagnosis
  • Surgical procedures
  • Psychological counseling
  • Acupuncture or dry needling
  • Hypnosis
  • Certain energy-based modalities without therapeutic touch
  • Practices that exceed a massage therapist’s legal scope of practice

These standards help protect both practitioners and the public while preserving the integrity of the profession.

The Importance of Educational Excellence

Teaching is about more than presenting information—it’s about facilitating transformation.

Exceptional educators create learning experiences that inspire curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and empower therapists to serve their clients with greater confidence and skill.

Whether you’re teaching a small classroom, presenting a live webinar, or developing an online course, your influence can ripple through countless treatment rooms and client experiences across the country.

Sharing Your Knowledge, Expanding Your Impact

The massage therapy profession continues to evolve, creating exciting opportunities for experienced practitioners to step into leadership roles as educators.

If you have expertise, passion, and a desire to contribute to the future of the profession, becoming a continuing education provider may be your next great adventure.

By combining professional experience with quality educational design and adherence to NCBTMB standards, you can build courses that not only meet approval requirements but also inspire and elevate massage therapists nationwide.

Your knowledge has value. Your experience matters. And your willingness to teach may become one of the most meaningful contributions you make to the profession you love.

Posted in Ariana Institute, CE Classes, Massage Educators, Massage Therapy, Massage Therapy InstructorTagged , ,

CranioSacral Therapy: A Gentle Path to Healing

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What Is CranioSacral Therapy?

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive, hands-on therapy that supports the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Using a very light touch, typically no more than the weight of a nickel. Practitioners work with the craniosacral system: the skull, spine, sacrum, membranes, fascia, and the cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord.

Unlike more forceful manual therapies, CST works with the body’s own rhythms rather than imposing external forces. The goal is to release restrictions, improve fluid flow, calm the nervous system, and restore balance throughout the body: physically, emotionally, and energetically.

A Brief History

Although modern CranioSacral Therapy was formalized in the 20th century, its philosophical roots trace back thousands of years to ancient healing traditions that recognized the importance of subtle body movement, fluid dynamics, and energy flow in maintaining health.

The foundation of modern CST was laid by Dr. William Sutherland, an osteopathic physician working in the early 1900s. Challenging the prevailing belief of his time, Dr. Sutherland discovered that the bones of the skull are not fused and immobile in adulthood; they retain a slight, rhythmic mobility throughout life. He called this movement the “Primary Respiratory Mechanism” and spent decades developing techniques to work with it therapeutically.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Dr. John Upledger, an osteopathic physician and clinical researcher, expanded significantly on Sutherland’s work. Through rigorous scientific observation and clinical trials at Michigan State University, Dr. Upledger identified and measured the craniosacral rhythm as a distinct physiological system. He went on to found the Upledger Institute, which helped bring CranioSacral Therapy into mainstream integrative and holistic healthcare and has trained tens of thousands of practitioners worldwide.

Register for your CST course here!

How It Works

The body is constantly adapting to stress, from physical injuries and surgeries to emotional trauma, chronic tension, and the ordinary demands of daily life. Over time, these stresses can create restrictions and imbalances in the craniosacral system, disrupting the natural flow of cerebrospinal fluid and the function of the central nervous system.

During a CST session, the client typically lies fully clothed on a massage table in a quiet, relaxed environment. The practitioner uses a very light, still touch at key points along the head, spine, and sacrum to gently monitor the body’s cranial rhythm — a subtle, wave-like motion that pulses at roughly 6–12 cycles per minute. By sensing where the rhythm feels restricted, reduced, or asymmetrical, the practitioner can identify areas of tension or dysfunction.

Through gentle, precise holds and subtle movements, the practitioner helps the body release those restrictions. This allows the nervous system to shift from a state of stress (sympathetic “fight or flight”) into a deeper state of rest and recovery (parasympathetic “rest and digest”). Sessions typically last 45–60 minutes.

This process can support:

  • Better nervous system function and regulation
  • Improved circulation and cerebrospinal fluid flow
  • Reduced pain, tension, and inflammation
  • Deeper relaxation and stress relief
  • Emotional release and body-mind integration
  • Enhanced immune system function

Common Conditions CST May Help

Because the craniosacral system influences the entire body, CST is often used to support:

  • Migraines and headaches
  • Neck and back pain
  • TMJ dysfunction
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Chronic fatigue
  • PTSD and emotional trauma
  • Sleep disturbances

A Gentle Approach for All Ages

One of the most distinctive aspects of CranioSacral Therapy is its universality. Because the touch used is so light and non-invasive, CST is appropriate for people across the entire lifespan — from newborns and young children to adults recovering from injury or surgery to elderly individuals managing chronic conditions.

For infants, CST is increasingly used to address the physical stresses of birth — particularly after long labors, forceps or vacuum-assisted deliveries, or C-sections, which can create cranial and spinal restrictions that contribute to colic, nursing difficulties, or developmental delays.

For adults and seniors, CST offers a way to address accumulated physical and emotional tension that may not respond well to more aggressive therapies. It is particularly valued by those who need a gentle, whole-body approach due to fragility, pain sensitivity, or complex health histories.

Final Thoughts

CranioSacral Therapy offers a calming, holistic approach to healing that works with the body rather than against it. By supporting the body’s innate intelligence and self-corrective abilities, CST can help promote greater comfort, balance, and overall well-being.

Register for your CST course here!

Posted in CranioSacral Therapy, Massage Educators, Massage Therapy, NCBTMBTagged , , , ,

The Art of Aromatherapy: Enhancing Massage Therapy Through Essential Oils

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By Ariana Vincent, LMT, MTI, NCBTMB CE Provider

For centuries, people have turned to the healing power of plants to support health and well-being. Today, aromatherapy continues to be one of the most effective and enjoyable ways to enhance relaxation, promote balance, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

At the Ariana Institute, we teach massage therapists how to safely and effectively incorporate essential oils into their practice, creating a deeper and more customized therapeutic experience for their clients.

What Is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences, known as essential oils, to promote health and wellness for the body, mind, and spirit. These highly concentrated plant extracts are derived from flowers, leaves, bark, roots, wood, fruit rinds, and other parts of plants.

Essential oils can be inhaled through the respiratory system and absorbed through the skin during massage. When combined with therapeutic touch, they create a powerful synergy that enhances both physical and emotional well-being.

The Benefits of Essential Oils in Massage Therapy

Aromatherapy allows massage therapists to customize each session according to a client’s unique needs. Depending on the oils selected, a massage can become more relaxing, invigorating, balancing, or restorative.

Some commonly used essential oils include:

Lavender

Known for its calming and soothing properties, lavender is often used to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and encourage restful sleep.

Eucalyptus

A favorite during cold and allergy seasons, eucalyptus can help relieve congestion and support easier breathing.

Citrus Oils

Grapefruit, lemon, lime, orange, and tangerine provide uplifting, refreshing aromas that can improve mood and energize the spirit.

Mint Oils

Peppermint, spearmint, and wintergreen offer cooling, invigorating sensations that can refresh tired muscles and stimulate the senses.

Bergamot

This bright citrus oil is known for its uplifting and balancing qualities.

Rose

Valued for its nourishing effects on the skin and its ability to promote relaxation and emotional well-being.

Lemongrass

Refreshing and uplifting, lemongrass is often used to promote a sense of calm and renewal.

Sandalwood

Traditionally associated with meditation, sandalwood encourages relaxation, grounding, and inner balance.

Aromatherapy Throughout the Body

Massage therapists can strategically apply essential oils to different areas of the body based on the client’s goals and needs.

For example:

  • Lavender may be used to encourage deep relaxation.
  • Eucalyptus may be applied near the upper back and chest to support respiratory comfort.
  • Ginger can be used on tired legs to create a warming, stimulating effect.
  • Mint oils can refresh and energize the feet.
  • Rose and sandalwood are often incorporated into facial massage to nourish the skin and encourage tranquility.

Every essential oil offers a unique therapeutic experience, allowing therapists to create highly personalized sessions

Learning Aromatherapy at the Ariana Institute

The Ariana Institute’s Aromatherapy Course provides massage therapists with a comprehensive introduction to the safe and effective use of essential oils in clinical practice. Students learn about indications, contraindications, blending techniques, and practical applications for massage therapy.

In addition to aromatherapy education, the course includes valuable resources for advanced study, practice-building strategies, and marketing insights designed to help therapists grow successful and rewarding careers.

Bringing Nature’s Healing Wisdom Into Your Practice

Aromatherapy beautifully complements massage therapy by engaging one of our most powerful senses—the sense of smell. Through the thoughtful use of essential oils, therapists can create memorable experiences that support relaxation, healing, balance, and overall wellness.

Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to essential oils, aromatherapy offers a natural and effective way to elevate your massage practice and enrich your clients’ lives.

To learn more about continuing education opportunities, visit the Ariana Institute and discover how aromatherapy can transform your therapeutic sessions.

Register for your Aromatherapy course!
Posted in Ariana Institute, Aromatherapy, Massage TherapyTagged , , , ,

My Journey as a Massage Therapy Instructor and Continuing Education Provider

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By Ariana Vincent, LMT, MTI, NCBTMB CE Provider

Becoming a Massage Therapy Instructor (MTI) after more than twenty years as a Licensed Massage Therapist was a natural evolution in my professional journey. Teaching allowed me to diversify my career while remaining deeply connected to a profession that I love. The years I spent working directly with clients provided a strong foundation and valuable real-world perspective that I could bring into every class I developed and taught.

My educational journey began long before I entered the massage profession. After graduating from the University of Texas in 1979, I pursued graduate studies in the Department of Education at Texas State University. My interest in learning and teaching would later become an integral part of my professional identity.

My introduction to massage therapy began in 1982 when I participated in massage classes before Texas established state licensing requirements. Once licensing became mandatory, I completed the in-depth core curriculum necessary for professional practice. As my passion for the field grew, so did my commitment to lifelong learning.

Over the years, I pursued extensive continuing education in a wide range of specialties, including Marketing, Ethics, Ayurveda, Therapeutic Touch, Hot Stone Therapy, Prenatal Massage, CranioSacral Therapy, Deep Tissue Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial Techniques, Shiatsu, Oncology Massage, Geriatric Massage, PTSD-related care, and Lomi Lomi with Pualani. 

I also attended seminars and workshops through organizations such as the World Massage Festival (WMF), the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), and the Alliance for Massage Therapy Education (AFMTE).

After becoming an approved Massage Therapy Instructor and Continuing Education Provider in Texas, I expanded my reach by becoming a nationally approved continuing education provider through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB). This milestone allowed me to share my knowledge with massage professionals across the country.

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to learn from exceptional mentors. One mentor, in particular, encouraged me to begin writing books. That simple suggestion became a turning point in my career, ultimately leading to the publication of eight massage therapy books, numerous articles, and more than thirty comprehensive course manuals.

Mentorship has played a significant role in my growth. In 1998, I was mentored by a group of graduate students from the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas. Their guidance helped me strengthen the business side of my practice and educational offerings. More recently, in 2021, I was blessed to connect with additional mentors through my involvement with the Alliance for Massage Therapy Education, whose support and wisdom continue to inspire me.

As my educational programs evolved, I embraced new methods of teaching and learning. After developing hands-on courses and extensive course notebooks, I expanded into online education. I created digital learning experiences by uploading course materials—including text, graphics, videos, assessments, and evaluations—to a Learning Management System (LMS). Through these online offerings, I was able to reach massage therapists nationwide and make quality continuing education more accessible.

My twenty-five-year career as a Massage Therapy Instructor has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Teaching has provided me with a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment unlike any other professional role I have held. It has allowed me to support the growth of fellow therapists, contribute to the advancement of our profession, and remain a lifelong student myself.

I hold a deep respect for the massage therapy profession and for the dedicated practitioners who serve others through the healing power of touch. Whether your path leads you into clinical practice, spa work, specialized modalities, education, or leadership, I encourage you to continue learning, growing, and sharing your gifts with the world.

My hope is that you will find this career path as meaningful, inspiring, and fulfilling as I have.

Register for our MTI 30-hour Adult Learner course!

Posted in CE Classes, continuing education, Massage Educators, Massage Therapy, Massage Therapy InstructorTagged , ,

Self-Care for Massage Therapists: 12 Essential Practices for a Long, Healthy, and Fulfilling Career

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As massage therapists and bodyworkers, we spend our days caring for others. We relieve pain, reduce stress, and create healing environments for our clients. Yet one of the greatest challenges in our profession is remembering to extend that same level of care to ourselves.

After more than three decades as a massage therapist, educator, and lifelong student of wellness, I have learned that true self-care is not a luxury—it is a professional necessity. The quality of care we offer our clients is directly connected to how well we care for ourselves.

Self-care is not simply about taking a day off or scheduling an occasional massage. It is a multidimensional practice that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit. It requires awareness, intention, and a willingness to continually grow.

Here are twelve essential self-care practices that can help massage therapists create greater balance, longevity, and fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.

Register for your CEU courses here!

1. Conscious Centering

Everything begins with presence.

Centering allows us to move beyond distractions and become fully available for ourselves and our clients. Whether through meditation, breathwork, yoga, or simple moments of stillness, centering helps us reconnect with the present moment.

When we enter a session grounded and focused, our clients feel it immediately. Likewise, when our minds are elsewhere, that disconnect is often felt as well.

Even a few minutes of conscious breathing before each session can transform the quality of your work and your overall sense of well-being.

2. Establish Healthy Boundaries

Boundaries are an essential form of self-respect.

As caring professionals, it is easy to overextend ourselves emotionally, physically, or energetically. Healthy boundaries help define where we end and where others begin.

This includes:

  • Maintaining professional relationships with clients
  • Setting limits on work hours
  • Protecting personal time
  • Learning when to say no
  • Avoiding burnout and compassion fatigue

Strong boundaries allow us to serve others without losing ourselves in the process.

3. Embrace the Power of Prevention

Benjamin Franklin famously said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Many massage therapists experience repetitive strain injuries, particularly in the hands, wrists, forearms, and shoulders. Preventing injury requires intentional planning.

Consider:

  • Limiting the number of sessions per day
  • Scheduling breaks between clients
  • Staying hydrated
  • Prioritizing sleep
  • Creating an ergonomically sound workspace
  • Continuing education on injury prevention

Small preventive measures often have the greatest long-term impact.

4. Make Restorative Exercise a Priority

Movement is medicine.

Because massage therapy is physically demanding, therapists benefit from exercise programs that build strength, flexibility, endurance, and stability.

Some beneficial activities include:

  • Yoga
  • Pilates
  • Swimming
  • Strength training
  • Walking
  • Core conditioning
  • Tai Chi

The goal is not athletic perfection. The goal is maintaining a resilient body capable of supporting a long and healthy career.

5. Practice Excellent Body Mechanics

Body mechanics can make the difference between a sustainable career and chronic pain.

Effective body mechanics involve:

  • Using body weight rather than muscular force
  • Keeping wrists in neutral positions
  • Utilizing forearms, fists, and elbows appropriately
  • Maintaining proper table height
  • Moving from the legs and core instead of the hands alone

One of the most valuable lessons in massage therapy is learning to work smarter, not harder.

As Ida Rolf often reminded practitioners, “Gravity always wins.”

6. Develop Clear Communication Skills

Communication is one of the most powerful therapeutic tools available.

Effective communication builds trust, improves treatment outcomes, and strengthens professional relationships.

Strong communicators:

  • Listen actively
  • Clarify assumptions
  • Express themselves respectfully
  • Stay calm under pressure
  • Seek understanding before being understood

The ability to communicate with clarity and compassion benefits every aspect of life and practice.

7. Cultivate Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment.

Research continues to demonstrate its effectiveness for:

  • Stress reduction
  • Anxiety management
  • Chronic pain
  • Emotional resilience
  • Improved focus

Mindfulness teaches us to observe our thoughts rather than becoming trapped by them.

For massage therapists, mindfulness can transform both the therapeutic experience and everyday life.

8. Live by a Strong Ethical Foundation

Ethics are not merely professional requirements—they are guiding principles for living and practicing with integrity.

Ethical practice includes:

  • Maintaining confidentiality
  • Practicing within your scope of practice
  • Continuing professional education
  • Respecting boundaries
  • Being honest about qualifications
  • Providing safe and professional care

When ethics guide our decisions, trust naturally follows.

9. Expand Your Perspective

Much of our experience is shaped by perception.

Two people can encounter the same situation and interpret it completely differently. Learning to examine our perspectives can help reduce stress and increase resilience.

One simple practice is collecting inspiring quotations, insights, and reflections in a journal. Wisdom from others can provide guidance during challenging times and remind us of the larger purpose behind our work.

10. Receive Regular Massage Therapy

Massage therapists often recommend regular bodywork to clients while neglecting their own treatment needs.

Receiving massage:

  • Helps prevent injuries
  • Reduces stress
  • Improves body awareness
  • Supports recovery
  • Enhances empathy for clients

The most effective therapists are often those who regularly experience the benefits of therapeutic touch themselves.

Self-care is not selfish. It is a professional responsibility.

11. Harness the Power of Breath

Breath is one of the most accessible tools for healing.

Deep, diaphragmatic breathing can:

  • Calm the nervous system
  • Improve focus
  • Increase oxygenation
  • Reduce stress
  • Promote emotional balance

Simple breathing practices performed for just a few minutes each day can create profound shifts in physical and emotional well-being.

As the Sanskrit proverb reminds us:

“For breath is life, and if you breathe well, you will live long on earth.”

12. Lead with Love and Compassion

At the heart of healing lies compassion.

Compassion for clients is essential, but so is compassion for ourselves.

Many therapists carry unrealistic expectations about what they should be able to accomplish in a single session. Real healing often unfolds gradually and may involve multiple therapies, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support.

Self-compassion allows us to release perfectionism and embrace our role as facilitators rather than fixers.

When we approach ourselves and others with kindness, patience, and understanding, we create an environment where healing can naturally occur.

Final Thoughts

Self-care is not a destination. It is an ongoing journey of awareness, growth, and renewal.

The twelve practices outlined here—Conscious Centering, Healthy Boundaries, Prevention, Restorative Exercise, Beneficial Body Mechanics, Clear Communication, Mindfulness, Ethics, Expanded Perspective, Regular Massage, Healing Breath, and Love & Compassion—provide a roadmap for creating a sustainable and fulfilling career.

As massage therapists, we are privileged to participate in the healing journeys of others. To do that effectively, we must also honor our own journey.

When we care for ourselves with the same dedication we offer our clients, we become stronger practitioners, healthier individuals, and more compassionate human beings.

Your greatest professional tool is not your hands.

It is your own well-being.

Register for your CEU courses here!
Posted in Marketing, Massage Educators, Massage Therapy, Self Care for Massage Therapists

A Playbook for Your Next Step in Massage – A Touch of Costa Rica

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Recently Ariana was featured on the podcast “A Touch of Costa Rica” where she offers a behind the scenes look at her longevity strategy as a licensed therapist, educator, CEO and recent participant in CRSMT’s continuing education offering, Essentials of Orthopedic Massage with the renowned Whitney Lowe.

“Contemplating how to expand your massage therapy offerings? Ariana Vincent offers a behind the scenes look at her longevity strategy as a licensed therapist, educator, CEO and recent participant in CRSMT’s continuing education offering, Essentials of Orthopedic Massage with the renowned Whitney Lowe. Ariana will also share some of the unique Samara experiences that she had with her husband during their extended stay. To learn more about CRSMT, visit www.atouchofcostarica.com”

Ariana, what was your first introduction to massage and what inspired it?

During the first stage of my massage career where I worked for 20 years as a massage therapist, I was very fortunate to live in Austin, Texas, back in the 80s. Austin has a reputation for being one of the most “Fit Cities” in the US, so it was the perfect place to open my therapeutic massage practice. In my senior year at the University of Texas, where I studied psychology and art, I had a part-time job at SafeRWay Health Food store (the precursor to Whole Foods) where I met many wonderful people focus on good health and natural healing. I feel like that is when my true education began.

I was an active member of the Austin Area Holistic Health Association (AAHHA) where I expanded my network of professionals in the healing arts. Becoming a massage therapist seemed like the perfect career for me since I resonate with the natural health care wellness model that includes stress reduction and non- invasive techniques for relieving pain and discomfort. I am especially interested in the positive effects that therapeutic massage has on people whose lives have been affected by trauma.

My first introduction into the second stage of my massage career I love learning and every opportunity I get I take advanced Continuing Education courses, which is what drew me to the Costa Rica School of Massage where I studied Orthopedic Massage with Whitney Lowe.

How did this experience play a role in transporting you from joining the holistic health community to becoming a Nationally Certified Massage Therapy Instructor and the CEO of The Ariana Institute for Wellness Education?

I have always loved the educational environment and I continue to strive to learn and grow as my career progresses.

For 20 years, I practiced as a licensed massage therapist in private practice, in healthcare offices and upscale resorts environments. I was in the first group of people to be licensed as massage therapists in Texas and later, once Texas began mandating CE classes, I was approved as a Texas CE provider. Many people asked me to show them some of the techniques I learned and integrated into my practice. After 20 years as a massage therapist, I began the second stage of my massage therapy career as an educator, which has continued for an additional 20 years.
I created The Ariana Institute for Wellness Education and I began offering CE classes in Austin and then expanded to include CE classes in other areas of the United States – as far away as Cape Cod, Massachusetts. When I first started my career as an educator, there were no informational classes specifically related to teaching massage therapy. I taught myself how to market my CE classes and eventually designed a CE class that focuses on marketing massage therapy. It was one of my first CE classes. I taught it for the Austin AMTA chapter which met at The Lauterstein Conway School of Massage. I’ve been teaching 20 years now and one thing that keeps me fresh and intrigued with the massage profession is participating in advanced Continuing Education classes like Whitney Lowe’s Orthopedic Massage class at the Costa Rica School of Massage.

Looking back on my career as a nationally certified Massage Therapy Instructor and Licensed Massage Therapist, I attribute much of my success to being resilient in the face of obstacles, surrounding myself with supportive motivational peers, and keeping a positive perspective.

 

How did you learn of CRSMT’s Essentials of Orthopedic Massage continuing education offering with Whitney Lowe? What were some of the deciding
factors that made you leap into this particular learning experience?

I met Whitney Lowe in 2015 at the Alliance for Massage Therapy Education’s Educational Congress where Whitney was awarded educator of the year and I was awarded CE provider of the year. I was impressed with his focus on the importance of education in the massage profession as well as his emphasis on evidence-based massage therapy. Whitney is one of the most well-educated and well-prepared educators I’ve ever met. I was interested in the subject matter – orthopedic massage – as well as his teaching style.

One of my dreams is to spend as much time as possible in beautiful, tropical Costa Rica with my husband. I’d visited Costa Rica previously and had a wonderful time. From the moment I left, I wanted to return. Attending this workshop at CRSMT was a dream come true. I plan to return to Costa Rica in November to hike with the Sierra Club in Southern Costa Rica and Northern Panama.

Can you share an insight or focus area that most resonated with you from the classroom?

Whitney is an expert at presenting his material in a well-thought-out way that includes the use of technology in the classroom. I was impressed that even though we were in an outdoor classroom, we were able to access educational videos that enhanced the classroom experience. Studying with Whitney Lowe was memorable and life-changing experience. I admire Whitney’s approach to education. He helps massage therapists develop critical thinking skills that are essential to effective assessment and treatment. Information that Whitney synthesized over 30 years is presented before, during, and after his Orthopedic Massage Class. Prior to the class learners were able to access Whitney’s books, Orthopedic Massage and Orthopedic Assessment; texts regarding orthopedic massage that he sends via e-mail and social media; online lectures that are available through his Academy of Clinical Massage; and videos from his extensive archives.

During the class, Whitney helps his students become more effective clinicians, have a more satisfying and successful practice, and gain loyalty from their clients. His specific learning outcomes include the following:

– Gain insight into musculoskeletal conditions, from acute to chronic
– Explore why and how treatments function to heal pain and injuries
– Learn to match the physiology of the tissue with the physiological effects of the treatment
– Learn injury specific & generalized treatment solutions for a wide diversity of conditions
– Learn orthopedic assessment and problem-solving strategies so your treatments are more effective and targeted
– Review anatomy & kinesiology principles so your treatments and assessments are based on sound science
– Develop the clinical reasoning skills that are necessary and at the core of advanced therapy
– Content is focused on the cognitive, knowledge-based, and in- depth study that Lowe believes is the foundation for high-quality, advanced massage treatment of complex conditions.

After the class was complete, Whitney provided multiple resources for advanced study, including his books, a 130-hour online orthopedic massage training program, and online communication through his monthly Zoom & office hour meetings. The comprehensive Program Resources Document that was provided after Whitney’s class included a thorough overview of information presented in class and links to videos and articles.

For learners who are interested in diving deeper into the world of orthopedic massage, in addition to utilizing the Program Resources Document, Whitney offers his 130-hour Clinical Rehabilitative Massage (CRM) Certificate program. It was amazing to study with an instructor who cares so deeply about his subject matter. His teaching style shows that he has spent decades contemplating and researching learning theories and methods of teaching that help learners truly integrate the material in a tangible way that can expand their knowledge, develop their critical thinking skills, and enhance their professional practices.

After Whitney Lowe’s Orthopedic Massage class, I reflected on the experience and developed an awareness that I was actually able to integrate the course material in a tangible way that expanded my knowledge and enhanced my critical thinking skills. I am grateful to have experienced Whitney’s approach to teaching. It helped me see my own classes at The Ariana Institute for Wellness Education in a new light. I am particularly impressed with Whitney’s methods for creating a beneficial and effective learning environment through a combination of experiential exercises, lectures, Q&As, and technology in a classroom that was occasionally interrupted with mangos crashing down on the roof and iguanas peering in from the palm trees surrounding the classroom.

If I had one piece of advice to new students prior to embarking on Whitney’s orthopedic massage courses in a classroom setting, it would be to prepare yourself for your courses by studying the material (Whitney’s books, online classes and social media posts) prior to the class so you could reinforce the knowledge you have gained through your course of study, as well as deepening your knowledge experientially and cognitively in the classroom. There are many things to learn from Whitney Lowe, including not only course content, but also effective teaching methods. He is one of the most blazingly brilliant and accessible instructors in the massage profession today.

Being that you are an accomplished instructor in your own right, how will this coursework with Whitney Lowe help to enhance your work and practice going forward?

The team at The Ariana Institute for Wellness Education has recently updated and expanded its Massage Therapy Instructor’s course. Whitney’s use of technology during our class at CRST inspired us to expand our Technology in the Classroom section of our MTI course.

You have been a licensed massage therapist for 40 years and a continuing education provider for 20. What is the secret to your longevity in this industry?

I keep things fresh by attending interesting and informative CE classes that offer up-to-date information about the latest scientific techniques. Additionally, I have a wonderful support team at The Ariana Institute for Wellness Education, including Stephanie Friedersdorff, who is not only a Massage Therapy Instructor but has recently completed her Master’s in Education and is working on her Ph.D. in education.

Wes Fletcher is another deeply appreciated member of my team who has helped me as a marketing director, administrative assistant, and as an editor of the Ariana Institute’s eight massage therapy manuals that are currently available on Amazon. Having the support of a wonderful team has helped me throughout my career as an educator.

My husband, Michael McIver, is a long-time Advanced Certified Rolfer who studied directly with Dr. Ida Rolf. He attended Whitney Lowe’s workshop with me in Costa Rica and he loved it. He applies the therapeutic principles he learned in Whitney’s class in his daily Rolfing practice.

With accolades such as being named the 2015 Alliance for Massage Therapy Education CE Provider of the Year and a 2013 Massage Therapy Hall of Fame Honoree, what were some of the challenges you had to overcome on the journey to receiving these larger-than-life achievements?

Challenges included (1) formatting the classes in a way that conformed to NCBTMB requirements, (2) learning how to market my CE classes in a cost-effective way, (3) creating a financial platform to fund the development and marketing of The Ariana Institute.

I’m sure our listeners are curious to know a bit more about The Ariana Institute for Wellness Education. Talk to us about your students and the unique aspects of your work that bring you joy.

Being an educator is a very rewarding experience – both personally and professionally. Recently, one of my new Massage Therapy Instructor students sent me the most beautiful bouquet of sunflowers that I’d ever seen as a thank you for mentoring her. I love touching the hearts of my students and helping them achieve their professional goals. As I touch their hearts, they touch mine. I am very grateful.

Can you share one story where your touch has transformed a client’s life in an unexpected way?

I’ve been an educator for 20 years, so most of the transformations I am aware of come through educational channels. I do remember one a my neighbors and friends telling me that she was inspired to become a massage therapist after receiving massages for many years. Her practice continues to this day and I am so honored to have influenced her in her career choice.
 
I’d love to hear about your experiences outside of the classroom. What were some of your memorable experiences during your time in Samara?

I contacted Brenda Dragone at the Samara Info Center and she helped me arrange many wonderful experience in nature including horseback riding in the rainforest, kayaking, dolphin watching, and a wonderful guided hike in a nature preserve.

What’s one piece of advice you would give to new students embarking on the coursework you completed at CRSMT?

I highly recommend studying with Whitney Lowe, both online and in person. He is a stellar educator who goes above and beyond what many educators offer. He brings years of experience to the table and he’s very tech savvy and he shares his tech expertise in the classroom in ways that help enhance and anchor the information gained.

In closing, if you could use one word to sum up your life’s work in holistic health, what would it be and why?

Phenomenal. My career choice has been a good one for me. It suits my personality and it is in alignment with my core beliefs. I love my students and they love me. It’s truly been phenomenal.

Catch the full podcast here!

Posted in Awards, Marketing, Massage Educators, Massage Therapy, Massage Therapy Instructor

Exploring the Path of a Massage Therapy Instructor

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Choosing Your Path

There are myriad ways you can configure your career as an MTI. You can work part-time or full-time, you can use your experiences as an MTI as a stepping-stone to another career, you can focus on being an MTI as a second career, you can blend teaching with your current vibrant massage therapy practice, or you can supplement your retirement income by becoming an MTI. There are opportunities to work as an independent massage therapy instructor like I do, you can work as an instructor at an established massage therapy school, and/or you can work for a nationwide company that provides massage therapy classes throughout the U.S.

Once you have been approved as an MTI and you have your MTI license and any other licenses and certifications you may need in order to teach, focus on setting goals for each of the massage therapy courses you wish to teach. Then choose the content and format that will make each course work for you and your students. If you choose a career as an independent MTI, you can utilize the information you gain in your MTI course to begin designing the content of your course notebook and structure. Remember to avoid using other people’s copyrighted material without permission and acknowledgment. If you choose to work as an MTI in a massage school environment, the school administrators will typically provide course notebooks and supporting media for the classroom. You should also think about how you will use technology in the classroom. Practice teaching your newly designed massage course to colleagues and friends and ask for feedback. It is not only an excellent idea to practice teaching, but it is also an NCBTMB requirement, as stated on their website, “Before submitting an application to NCBTMB for approval, you must have taught the course at least one time within the last year to a group of five or more participants. You must provide the participants with an evaluation requesting feedback on the course, instruction and material.” You could even videotape yourself practice teaching so you can study the pros and cons of your teaching style. An additional way to learn to teach would be to partner with another instructor during the beginning of your career or to serve as an assistant in a classroom.

Teach what you truly love and what you are qualified to teach. Think about how good it feels to have a positive influence in the lives of those around you. Create a structure for your classes in an environment that participants will enjoy. Utilize the information and resources presented in your MTI course material to create the ideal classroom environment. Make sure the classroom is well lit, properly ventilated, clean, comfortable, and that there are appropriate restroom facilities. Decide whether or not you are going to provide massage tables. Make sure to have a balanced percentage of hands-on experiential training and cognitive information. My preferred balance is 80% experiential and 20% cognitive.

Once you have developed your course material, if you are an independent MTI,, focus on setting prices, registering participants, and preparing rosters and certificates of attendance. Set up a spreadsheet to track your income and expenses on a daily basis so you can carefully monitor your progress. It is also important to remember that the first three to five years of any business, including massage therapy education, are building years as you lay the foundation for your ongoing success. Keep the appropriate tax records for the IRS. Also maintain  student records, rosters and course evaluations for NCBTMB and your state massage board. Please be sure to comply with all of your state board rules and regulations.

Develop marketing strategies by taking some marketing classes, reading books that offer tips for successful marketing and utilizing the services of mentors and consultants. The Ariana Institute’s MTI course includes information on marketing your courses as an independent MTI; however, not all MTI courses provide this component in their curriculum. Next, determine what marketing techniques work best for your business and budget. Think of ways to develop compelling descriptive titles for your courses to capture the attention of your students. Believe that you can be successful and surround yourself with competent people who support you in achieving your goals and dreams.

We will next explore ways of finding and creating opportunities to advance your career as an MTI.

Opportunities For Massage Instructors

Search engines come in handy for researching opportunities for massage therapy instructors. If you want to work at a massage school, simply search the name of the city where you want to teach and then enter “massage school” and find out the name of the director of the school and contact that person to see if there are any positions available for MTIs. You could also offer to teach one-time continuing education classes in your area of specialty as well as seeing about becoming a part of the part-time or full-time faculty. Create a proposal for the CE classes you want to teach at the schools and submit it to the school administrators along with your resume and cover letter. Go to events and CE classes at the schools where you are interested in teaching so that you become known in their environment.

If you are interested in teaching for a national massage company that hires instructors, you could do some online research for names and contact information and then follow-up to see if they are hiring.  You could take some courses offered by that company and talk to the instructor to see what his or her teaching experiences with that company have been like.

Another approach to utilizing your MTI certification would be to establish yourself as an independent MTI and CE provider. Design and develop your own course curriculum and market your class to the local community. Once you have achieved your desired level of success, consider expanding your market.

You can develop name recognition by offering to teach classes for local massage groups, such as massage Meetups and local AMTA chapters. On a larger scale, you can submit proposals for state and national conventions, for example, AMTA national conventions and The World Massage Festival.

Consider writing a book on the massage technique that you want to teach. This can help you market yourself as an educator. This can be done for every course, or bundle of courses that you offer.

In today’s technological world, another good marketing avenue is to create instructional videos for your courses and (1) publish them on the web, (2) send them to prospective students, (3) place them on your website, (4) include the URLs for these videos in the books that you publish, and (5) include the URLs in your course notebooks.

Resources for Advanced Information

The Ariana Institute’s Massage Therapy Instructor Course

https://arianainstitute.com/ce-online/#mti

ABMP Instructor Resource Programs

http://www.abmp.com/instructors/ http://www.abmp.com/instructors/instructor_development.php

AFMTE’s Educational Resources for Massage Therapy Teachers

http://www.afmte.org/teacher-education-resources/

AFMTE’s National Teacher Education Standards Project (NTESP)

http://www.afmte.org/education/tesp-core-competencies/

Coursera Instructional Methods in Health Professions Education

https://www.coursera.org/course/instructmethodshpe

Educational Training Solutions

http://www.educationtrainingsolutions.com/about-us/

ELAP (Entry-Level Analysis Project)

http://www.elapmassage.org/

Florida Board of Massage Therapy Education Programs Page

http://floridasmassagetherapy.gov/education-and-training-programs/

NCBTMB Information for Continuing Education Providers

http://www.ncbtmb.org/continuing-education-providers/continuing-education-providers#general

NCBTMB New York Approved CE Sponsor

http://www.ncbtmb.org/continuing-education-providers/ncbtmb-approved-new-york-ce-sponsor

Now that we have explored many options on the MTI path, I’ll leave you with a few thoughts and insights. One of the most important things you can do is to impart the knowledge and wisdom that you have gained over the years. Teaching can be a rewarding and enriching process that benefits the teacher, the student and the recipients of massage. Take time to look inside and see what you can do to let your light shine and manifest your dreams into reality. As Nelson Mandela shared so eloquently, What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.

The information above includes excerpts for the article “Positive Influence: Become a Massage Therapy Instructor,” by Ariana Vincent, originally published in the June 2015 issue of MASSAGE Magazine.

Visit the Ariana Institute’s website to learn about opportunities and courses for future Massage Therapy Instructors at https://arianainstitute.com/ce-online/#mti!
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Posted in Advanced Massage Techniques, Ariana Institute, Ariana Vincent, CE Classes, continuing education, Massage Educators, Massage Therapy, Massage Therapy Instructor, Medical Massage, Mind-Body, NCBTMB, Practice Building, Self Care for Massage Therapists, Spa Techniques

Healing with Aromatherapy Massage

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What Is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences to balance, harmonize, and promote the health of body, mind, and spirit. It is a natural therapy using various essential oils gathered from certain fragrant plants that have the ability to aid us both physically and psychologically.

Essential oils are potent, volatile essences found in different parts of the plant such as the flowers, twigs, leaves and bark, or in the rind of fruit. For example, in roses the oil is in the flowers, in basil it is in the leaves and in sandalwood it is in the wood. These fragrances can be used either alone or in combinations to create desired effects.
Continue reading “Healing with Aromatherapy Massage”

Posted in Ariana Institute, Ariana Vincent, Aromatherapy, CE Classes, continuing education, Massage Educators, Massage Therapy, Massage Therapy Instructor, NCBTMB, Personal Stories, Spa Techniques, Uncategorized

Meditation

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The Ariana Institute’s Self Care for the Massage Therapist Manual is part of a series of massage manuals that are designed to help deepen the knowledge of current massage therapists and introduce new massage therapists to the world of massage and bodywork. The Self Care for the Massage Therapist Manual features topics that are also available as NCBTMB approved online CE courses through the Ariana Institute at www.arianainstitute.com/ce-online/, including:

  • Self Care and Body Mechanics
  • Stretching and Breathing
  • Meditation as a Therapeutic Tool
  • Mindfulness in a Therapeutic Setting

Self Care_BookCoverPreview Continue reading “Meditation”

Posted in Ariana Institute, Ariana Vincent, Body Mechanics, CE Classes, continuing education, Massage Therapy, Meditation as a Therapeutic Tool, Mindfulness in a Therapeutic Setting, Personal Stories, Self Care for Massage Therapists, Stretching and Breathing, Therapy ManualsTagged , , , , , , , , , , ,

Exploring the Path of a Massage Therapy Instructor

Posted on by admin

 

Choosing Your Path

There are myriad ways you can configure your career as an MTI. You can work part-time or full-time, you can use your experiences as an MTI as a stepping-stone to another career, you can focus on being an MTI as a second career, you can blend teaching with your current vibrant massage therapy practice, or you can supplement your retirement income by becoming an MTI. There are opportunities to work as an independent massage therapy instructor like I do, you can work as an instructor at an established massage therapy school, and/or you can work for a nationwide company that provides massage therapy classes throughout the U.S. Continue reading “Exploring the Path of a Massage Therapy Instructor”

Posted in Advanced Massage Techniques, Ariana Institute, Ariana Vincent, CE Classes, continuing education, Massage Educators, Massage Therapy, Massage Therapy Instructor, Medical Massage, Mind-Body, NCBTMB, Practice Building, Self Care for Massage Therapists, Spa Techniques
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