Helping others to heal and promote wellbeing through natural and non-invasive methods is both personally and professionally rewarding. This is just one of the many reasons why choosing massage therapy education as your academic path to achieving a lucrative holistic healthcare profession could be a good idea.

Comprised of over 80 various types of specific bodywork therapies, massage therapy instruction helps students to distinguish particular touch techniques, as well as the practical application of these techniques.

Though most massage programs are host to basic massotherapy classes like deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, and sports massage; candidates aspiring for more advanced methods find a number of programs in massage therapy education that offer a greater variety of bodywork methods - including Eastern therapies (Thai massage, acupressure, Shiatsu, Tuina, and meridian therapy), and specialized training in craniosacral therapy, myofascial release, therapeutic touch, infant/prenatal massage, chair massage, Indian head massage, lymphatic drainage, and trigger point, among others.

Massage therapy education is also a great way to earn your professional standing in the diverse healthcare industry. Today's massage therapists are certified and/or licensed to practice; and like other healthcare providers, must maintain licensure and credentials by taking annual continuing massage therapy courses.

A growing number of programs in massage therapy schools meet National certification requirements. Students enrolled in these bodywork courses can anticipate a minimum of 500 hours training; with some courses exceeding 1,000 training hours.

Depending on the massage therapy educational course in which you enroll, you may also have optional training electives like aromatherapy, holistic nutrition, hydrotherapy, advanced kinesiology, energy healing therapy (Reiki), reflexology, hot stone massage, and raindrop therapy, among others.

Candidates who have successfully completed their selected massage therapy programs can expect a positive career outlook. A 20 percent growth between now and 2016 is expected for massage therapist occupations; and with the growing demand for natural healthcare therapies like massage, that number may increase.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding somatic education programs, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massotherapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore massage therapy education near you.