Nurturing mothers as they successfully feed their babies is a highly rewarding practice that supports families in our communities at a profound level. Breast massage and manual expression of breast milk is highly effective in increasing milk production, as evidenced by the many cultures throughout the world that include this work as standard of care on maternity wards. The simplicity of the work allows bodyworkers to easily and confidently incorporate breast massage into their current practices, while adding an appealing and beneficial service to increase clientele.
Throughout my years of studying the mammary glands, I have become acquainted with its many personalities. This class will focus on the nurturing aspect of the breast - breast feeding. In order to nurture another, we must first feed ourselves the knowledge and skills we need. Day 1 of this class will focus on the ethics of breast massage for the practitioner, as well as breast self-care practices that practitioners can us, or teach parents to prepare themselves as the mammary glands are expanding during pregnancy. From here develops a breast massage system we can easily meld into any pre-natal massage treatment we are already familiar with.
Day 2 will focus on the transition that happens after delivery, basic lymphatic massage techniques to support fluid flow and "let down", and specific work around the mammary ducts and areola to keep breast milk flowing steadily if impediments or pathology should arise. The physiology of the lactating breast and its natural symbiosis with the infant will be explored. Resources and referrals to appropriate lactation support practitioners will be discussed.
Prerequisite: This class will cover the necessary topics for Washington State's latest requirements to perform breast massage according to regulations. While it does not require any prior experience in breast massage, it does assume each student has basic pre-natal and post-natal massage training. Basics of pregnancy massage will not be covered and this class does not replace training or certification in pregnancy massage.
To meet Aubrey, click on this link for a short video: King 5 News Interview
This course meets Washington State training requirements in WAC 246-830-555 for specialized training in breast massage.
SPECIAL CLASSROOM POLICIES FOR THIS CLASS -- By registering, each Attendee agrees to the following policies:
- Attendee must be a licensed massage therapist in any US State with an official massage licensing board, or a healthcare professional with breast massage in their scope of practice. If a massage therapist practices in a state without massage licensing, permission from the instructor is required.
- Attendee must be present for all class hours, including all lecture and technique demonstrations.
- Attendee understands that this is a mixed-gender class. Full chest and breast areas, including areolae and nipples, will be treated on all genders within this class.
- Attendee understands that the full chest and breast will be undraped for much of the treatment in class.
- Attendee is expected to both give and receive all techniques with students of any gender.
- Attendee agrees to adhere to professional standards and ethics both during the course, as well as when working with the public in a clinical/office setting.
- In order to receive their Course Completion Certificate, each Attendee agrees to the these policies for this course. Any Attendee who does not adhere to the course rules will be immediately asked to leave the course and will receive neither course credit nor tuition refund.
All participants are medical professionals, and the instructor will facilitate the classroom being a confidential and safe space at all times. Please know that everyone will be extraordinarily respectful in class or will be asked to leave. The instructor has always had wonderful, co-ed classes with talented, compassionate students and she is looking forward to this being another.