Yoga and Zen Shiatsu, professional training, level 1

HOLISMOS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SHIATSU offers the opportunity to embark on a journey of learning and discovery, with a completely new modality: that of three fully residential courses. We offer the opportunity to concentrate on the program, normally developed over a year, in only 21 days. Three different levels are offered (three weeks for each level), in an amazing natural setting, in front of the sea, the perfect location to get away from everyday life and immerse yourself in a new adventure. Every level will consist of 15 hours of online tutorials and Q&As.
HOLISMOS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SHIATSU follows a program conformed to the criteria, principles, and style inspired by the teachings of Master Shizuto Masunaga, integrated with a basic understanding of traditional Hatha yoga. There is no lack, however, of references and citations to other ancient and modern Schools of thought on the meaning of Energy and its multiple expressions in man.

The study program proposed by HOLISMOS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SHIATSU integrates the theoretical/practical learning of Shiatsu with a substantial component of classical Hatha yoga as well as postural analysis and rebalancing (able to make the practitioner’s movement dynamic, fluid, and effective), together with a good knowledge of functional Anatomy, the latter useful also to allow the future Practitioner to dialogue with the other health professionals without impediments.
Why /Yoga/MTC/Shiatsu together?
Whoever works in the field of Traditional and Energetic Medicine can rightly be called a Naturopath, as this ‘bioenergetic’ practitioner comes into contact with natural phenomenal aspects and their constant fluctuation, trying to decipher their parameters and their influence on the human being. This type of research brings him into contact with sciences and cultures that share the same purpose: the harmony of the individual through methods of investigation and reorganisation such as Yoga, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and Shiatsu.

These ancient disciplines are permeated by very similar concepts in that they share the same aims: understanding of the Self and service to Humanity through touch, breath, treatment, concentration and meditation.

Mediterranean Retreat-Center on Lesbos Island in Greece
The building, now a center for yoga and energy healing practices, was originally a Greek tavern and small hotel. It overlooks the Gulf of Kalloni, just a few meters from the sea, and is located in a secluded natural environment of exceptional beauty. This area is a paradise for birdwatchers who come from all over the world, especially during spring, to admire the rare beauty of migratory birds such as pink flamingos, black and white storks, and peregrine falcons. The gulf is an important breeding area for many fish species, making it a lively stretch of sea. Its location, natural ambiance, peace, silence, and power of elements make it an ideal place to immerse oneself in the study and practice of various disciplines, leaving behind the physical and emotional burdens that usually crowd our lives.

The rooms are all provided with A/C, bathroom with shower and a balcony overlooking the sea.
You may choose between shared accommodation or single private room.

THE FOOD.
All meals are carefully prepared by our staff directly in the large kitchen available at the center. The raw materials and ingredients, all locally produced, are of the highest quality because they are grown in a healthy, unpolluted environment on nutrient-rich lava soil. Meals include breakfast, lunch and dinner. Plenty of fruit from our garden, herbal teas, water and various beverages are available throughout the day. Meals are vegetarian/vegan based with a strong middle eastern flavour.

THE FIRST RESIDENTIAL 150h
This course can also be intended as a complete introductory course with no obligation to continue with the two following levels.

During this course, participants will learn to perform various basic movements and some simple sequences on the recipient, placed in prone and supine positions.

The student will also acquire the basic knowledge for the correct execution of the main asanas of classical Hatha Yoga, as well as pranayama, meditation, and mudra. For a better understanding of the subject will be necessary to explore the philosophical universe related to classical yoga, with a special interest in the therapeutical value of yoga. This information will contribute greatly to the training and transformation of the student into a competent Shiatsu Practitioner.

Each student will gradually develop, through specific exercises and relaxation techniques, a different awareness and perception; they will become familiar with some elementary theoretical notions of Traditional Chinese Medicine, leaving in-depth study to be the prerogative of an eventual continuation of their studies.

At the end of the course, participants will be able to perform a complete shiatsu treatment, integrating movement, asana, and pranayama as integrative support for the patient. At this level, he will be able to perform a full treatment with family and/or friends, capable of bringing a sense of psychophysical relaxation and general well-being.

Participants will receive a CERTIFICATE OF PARTICIPATION.

Topics covered
The concept of ‘holistic’ medicine and the importance of ‘Salutogenesis’.
Western and Eastern approaches to health and healing.
What is Shiatsu: how it works, why it is effective, historical background
Vital energy and the basic concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Posture and attitude
The principles of “right” pressure: “Applying” the weight of the body, The concept of HARA.
Correct use of pressure instruments: the palm of the hand, thumb, fingers, elbow, the cut of the hand- Practical demonstration of a general treatment
Treatment of the recipient in prone and supine position
The main (so-called classical) meridians, their function and location
The concept of energy assessment and energy-structural analysis of the back (the diagnostic areas)
Anatomy and Physiology: the cell, tissues, skeleton, joints, main muscles
Yoga exercises, Stretching of meridians, Do-in, meditation and relaxation
Classical and non classical pranayama tecniques, Hasta Mudra
Principles of yoga therapy
Aspects of Eastern and Western philosophy related to the holistic view of the human being
The concept of Qi / Ki or vital energy

Lesvos is located in the archipelago of islands in the northeastern Aegean and is the largest of the group in size. Because of its importance, it has very easy connections to Athens, where there are several internal flights every day throughout the year. If you want to save money, there are good connections by ship, always every day of the year. Ships also stop in Chios and often go as far north as Thessaloniki.
From some European countries you can fly directly to Lesvos, which has a small but modern international airport. If you cannot find a direct flight to Mytilene, fly to Athens and from there take another flight to the island.