Course Descriptions

COURSE TITLE	HOURS	PREREQUISITE	COURSE DESCRIPTION
Advanced Clinical Massage	68	Cayce/Reilly® Massage & Anatomy & Physiology I	In this class, students will learn and practice advanced therapeutic modalities and techniques that will enabling them to work with clients who have specific injuries, complaints, and/or tension patterns. The effects of pain and reduction of pain in the application of technique will be discussed. Theory and practice in myofascial release and neuromuscular therapy will be reviewed.
Anatomy & Physiology I	75	None	This course presents an overview of the organization of the human body. Although body systems are studied, there is an emphasis placed on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. The study of regional anatomy focuses on surface landmarks; individual muscle origins, insertions and actions; posture and movement analysis; and specific nerve innervations. In maintaining the perspective of massage therapy, precautions and therapeutic considerations are also covered.
Anatomy & Physiology II	75	Anatomy & Physiology I	This course continues the study of the body systems with a detailed look at how they work together and it also examines the body systems from a bodywork perspective. The pathology, biomechanics and specific nerve functioning with respect to their role in massage is also covered. The focus is on the student acquiring a thorough working knowledge of the form and function of the human body.
Applied Pathology	45	Anatomy & Physiology I	This is an introduction to pathology as it might be encountered in the practice of massage therapy. Signs and symptoms, path physiology and indications, or contraindications of many diseases will be covered and pharmacology considerations will also be discussed. Assessment and integrative techniques will address specific muscular dysfunction.
Body/Mind/Spirit	20	None	This experiential class will expand on a frequently mentioned concept in the Cayce readings: “…spirit is the life, mind is the builder, physical is the result” (reading 349-4). The element of touch awakens new body awareness and offers an opportunity to more fully understand one’s body, as well as enhance the quality of life through development of one’s fundamental spiritual nature. How do emotions from yesterday affect one’s body today? How is illness used as a vehicle for growth? This is a class of discussion, discovery and fun.
Business Development	20	None	Students will be instructed in the basic business principles and practices of a professional massage therapist. Information on accounting, insurance, tax preparation, marketing and business plans will be explored. Students will also be introduced to interview skills, resume writing and how to maximize employment opportunities.
Cayce/Reilly® Massage & Wellness	152	Anatomy & Physiology I	Fundamental technique of relaxation massage, with emphasis on the Cayce/Reilly® treatment; combines Swedish style massage strokes with rotation of joints and limbs as well as the stimulation and vibration of organs and glands. The history of massage, contraindications for massage, benefits and physiology of massage, use of oils, draping techniques, body mechanics, endangerment sites, self-care, and a selection of holistic Cayce remedies are also presented. Students give and receive massage in this class.
Chair Massage	20	None	Students learn to use one of the fastest-growing marketing tools in the field of massage therapy. Course includes instruction in techniques unique to a portable massage chair ranging from a one-minute demonstration “routine” with basic strokes, to a more specific, 15-minute therapeutic lower back release, work on the upper shoulders and neck, and therapeutic work specific to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.
Clinical Experience I	28	Cayce/Reilly Massage	Students are required to give massage sessions in the Cayce/Reilly School Student Clinic with the supervision of a massage professional. The clinical experience is designed to give our students valuable hands-on experience and feedback with a variety of clients.
Clinical Experience II	48	Cayce/Reilly Massage & Clinical Experience I	The practicums in the second semester will give students further hands-on experience while also allowing them to begin integrating a variety of modalities that are taught in the second semester.
Healer's Path	10	None	This course covers Cayce’s concept of healing with readings, discussions, rituals and participatory experiences of being a channel for healing. The practices of inter-professional education will also be explored.
Hydrotherapy	20	Cayce/Reilly Massage & Wellness	Students study and apply the various modes of hydrotherapy and other modalities, including stream/fume baths, packs, cryotherapy, heliotherapy, paraffin, hydro collators and facials. No prerequisite.
Integrative Massage	20	Cayce/Reilly Massage & Wellness	The Integrative Massage class is an opportunity for students to learn additional advanced orthopedic massage techniques and protocols for specific areas of pain relief. In addition, students have the opportunity to practice the integration of all the modalities learned in the program into a full body massage routine.
Kinesiology	35	Anatomy & Physiology I	This highly experiential class is geared to assist students in developing essential palpation skills, as well as learning various methods of palpation and when and how to use them.
Massage Research	10	None	Students will receive the basics of research, with a specific emphasis on massage. They will learn the language needed to be able to understand the research reports, where to find specific research material and many other useful tools that will assist the successful massage therapist with their practice and clients.
MBLEX Preparation	4	None	Students will be instructed in the application process for taking the required licensure exam—Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam (MBLEx) for professional practice in the state of Virginia. Students will also learn about how the test is organized and basic test-taking strategies.
Nutrition, Health and Wellness	15	None	By introducing students to the basics of nutrition, they will gain a practical understanding of nutrition and how it relates to overall health. Students will have the opportunity to analyze and assess their own dietary habits. The transpersonal elements of nutrition will be explored, with emphasis on what the Edgar Cayce readings reveal on the subject.
Professional Ethics	15	None	This course focuses on establishing a successful and ethical massage practice. Topics include: client communication skills, professional behavior and boundaries and ethical standards of practice.
Reflexology	20	None	Through demonstration and hands-on practice, students learn the history, purpose and application of this ancient healing art. Explanation of zone theory, foot anatomy and various palpation techniques offered.