Have you ever wanted to do massage at home with your partner but didn't know where to start? Do you try doing massage but get tired quickly? Are you wondering how to please your partner, who keeps asking for "harder," without hurting yourself? If so, you need to take one of the Massage for Couples classes I'll be teaching at Forest Park Community College on Saturday, June 9 or Saturday, July 14, 2012.
This class is ideal for couples, athletes, dancers, performing artists, and anyone else who would like to learn simple massage techniques they can use at home.
This one day, 5 1/2 hour class is meant to give nonprofessionals the basic skills to do massage for relaxation on each other at home. While we can't teach you to be a massage therapist in one day, you should leave the class feeling confident that you and your partner can begin to enjoy sharing massage with each other. "Couples" can be any two individuals, not just spouses, but you must register for the class with a partner. Friends, roommates, teammates, and family members are welcome to participate as a pair.
The class begins with some introductory information on massage theory so that participants can understand the "why" behind what they are doing. Precautions are covered so that it is clearly understood how to work in a manner that does no harm to either the giver or the recipient. Most of the class is "hands-on." Particular attention is paid to making sure the "giver" works in a way that will not hurt them. A variety of strokes are taught that allow for maximum flexibility. Participants learn strokes that are light but still effective and also more vigorous strokes that can affect deeper tissues.
Class size is limited so that participants get plenty of individual attention and many personal concerns and interests can be addressed. The class is relaxed and friendly. Participants have ranged in age from their early 20s to their 70s and come from many walks of life. It's a lot of fun!
How to register:
Cost of the class is very modest - only $39 per person for a 5 1/2 hour class! Registration will open Monday, May 7. For more information or to register, call the Continuing Education department at 314-984-7777 or go to the St. Louis Community College website: http://www.stlcc.edu. Find the class schedule for Continuing Education, 2012, and look for the Massage for Couples class at Forest Park under the Health section. Classes are held on the second floor of the Hospitality building. (Found just above "Parking Lot D" on this map.)
Please note: Online scheduling only allows you to register one person at a time. However, to take this class, you must register with a partner. Be sure to register at the same time so you don't get "split up." Many people find that calling is easier than the online process.
What to bring and other details:
Class begins at 9:30 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. It is suggested that you bring a bag lunch since we only have a half hour lunch break. There is now a sandwich shop nearby on Oakland but nothing is available on campus. Participants need to bring a set of sheets and a pillow or bolster. Oil will be provided. A blanket is recommended in case the room is cool. Also highly recommended is a yoga mat, heavy bath towel, or similar padding. We have to use regular classroom tables and it will make the surface more comfortable. If you have your own massage table, you are welcome to bring that. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. You should wear a bathing suit or similar clothing under your street clothes so you can have maximum access to skin.
If you're interested but can't make it this time, don't despair. The class is offered once or twice each semester, including the summer session.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. You can leave a verbal (not text!) message at 314-670-0650 or email Alice@massage-stlouis.com.
Hope to see you there! And tell your friends!