Sep 21, 2026  
2026-2027 Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Catalog

TMAS 101 - Holistic Approach to Wellness


PREREQUISITES: Program Chair Approval
PROGRAM: Therapeutic Massage
CREDIT HOURS MIN: 3
LECTURE HOURS MIN: 3
DATE OF LAST REVISION: Spring, 2021

Considers the holistic approach to wellness with discussion including the connection of disease, the autonomic nervous system, and the emotions. Holistic Approach explores the importance of the mind-body connection and integrative health care. Teaches the role wellness plays in our own lives and the importance of massage therapy in relation to health and wellness.

MAJOR COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of this course the student will be expected to:

  1. Define and describe a wellness model (E 1.5 I)
  2. Identify the scope of practice of massage therapy and bodywork in relation to a wellness model (E 1.5 II)
  3. Assess personal needs, behaviors, beliefs, attitudes, and knowledge relevant to the practice of massage therapy and bodywork (E 3.1 I)
  4. Identify the physiological and psychological effects of stress (E 3.1 III)
  5. Identify various stress reduction techniques and their benefits (E 3.1 IV)
  6. Identify and describe the effect of physical fitness and lifestyle habits on the performance of massage and bodywork techniques (E 3.2 I)
  7. Define and demonstrate active listening, rapport, empathy and feedback (E 4.1 I).
  8. Describe the process used to identify the scope of practice of allied health professions (E 5.3 II)
  9. Differentiate Western medicine from the holistic approach.
  10. Compare and contrast the differences between alternative, complementary and integrative health care.
  11. Compare and contrast the roles of relationships and a positive approach to wellness.
  12. Examine types of integrative health care and the theories behind them. Ex. Acupuncture/acupressure, chiropractic care, iridology, reflexology, aroma therapy, homeopathy, herbology, etc.
  13. Discuss the importance of nutrition and whole foods.
  14. Distinguish the role and limits of herbal remedies in Western medicine.
  15. Evaluate and identify sources of reputable information regarding integrative healthcare, herbal remedies, and holistic approaches to wellness.


COURSE CONTENT: Topical areas of study include -  

  • Concept of integrative healthcare
  • Conflict resolution
  • Critical evaluation of research related to integrative healthcare
  • Emotions and wellness
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Lifestyle habits
  • Nutrition
  • Personal wellness
  • Psychological issues of massage
  • Relationships and wellness
  • Stress effects and management
  • Western medicine vs the holistic approach

 
Course Addendum - Syllabus (Click to expand)