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Anne Parry

Tsuboki Face Massage was created by myself to fill a gap in the massage market. I based it on Traditional Japanese Face massage - once the preserve of empresses. - but combined this with techniques that I created or discovered during my 30-plus years of working as a massage therapist.

The routine begins with a deep neck massage, followed by a detailed face massage with oil. You then work all of the acupressure points on the face, before finishing with some simple lymphatic drainage and grounding.

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Tsuboki Face Massage was created by myself to fill a gap in the massage market. I based it on Traditional Japanese Face massage - once the preserve of empresses. - but combined this with techniques that I created or discovered during my 30-plus years of working as a massage therapist.

The routine begins with a deep neck massage, followed by a detailed face massage with oil. You then work all of the acupressure points on the face, before finishing with some simple lymphatic drainage and grounding.

You will learn the background to this wonderful therapy and how it came to be. You will learn the basics of Traditional Chinese Medicine, so that you have some understanding about why this massage is so powerful and how it works on several levels You will learn when not to massage, or when to adapt the massage to your clients' needs. And you will be able to locate and work on over 40 acupressure points on the face, may of which have rejuvenating and health-giving properties. It is given with the client lying - preferably on a massage table - and with the therapist sitting.

You will be taken step by step through all of the techniques with clear, concise videos, which you can replay until you are confident. These are accompanied by PDF files with teaching points and reminders for each technique. Each part can be used by itself, but when you have the complete routine at your fingertips, you have a therapy that is relaxing yet energising, accessible and nurturing.

I have been teaching this course in person since 2003; it was the first course I ever created, and had proved extremely popular with students and clients alike.The Udemy platform enables me to reach students via an excellent quality online version.

She obviously enjoys teaching and it is a pleasureto learn with her - thank you. A great deal of content delivered superbly. Idid not have any 'brain fog' or sense of overload. "

"I get a lot of clients that already said my facials were the best ever, and they would never go anywhere else.. so it's been such a delight to add this and get an even more favourable response. The difference on the face before and after is very visible, and for me even more important is the mood and energy change. Thank you again Anne"

Vivienne T, facialist

Cheeks looked plumped up. Lookedin a state of bliss and kept repeating how good she felt. I feel very excited about this treatment. ”

“Best face massage I’ve ever had. I felt a tingling sensation all the way downmy legs to my feet”

“Forgot what it was like to truly relax – this did it. ”

You will be given a certificate on completion of this course. Because laws vary in different countries and states, it is your responsibility to determine whether you need more training in order to practice professionally. If you are not a qualified therapist, I recommend you only work on healthy people.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Carry out a tsuboki face massage safely and effectively. talk to clients about why it is so effective
  • Explain basic principles of traditional chinese medicine. locate and press acupressure points on the face
  • Choose an appropriate oil for the face massage

Syllabus

In this lecture you will learn about the benefits of Face Massage; also how to massage safely - i.e. when not to massage, or when to adapt the routine

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Find out about your teacher.

In this lecture, you will learn how to position your client comfortably, and how to work in a way that will be zero strain for you as a pracititioner

After this lecture you will be able to explain the origins of Tsuboki Face Massage

In this lecture, you will get a glimpse into the fascinating world of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and begin to understand the far reaching effects of working meridians and tsubos

This technique comes near the beginning of the massage, and is a dry massage technique on the neck

A variation of Static Circles, to work the neck muscles from a different angle

Not as rough as it sounds! But another great way to work the neck deeply, should you need to 

This move from Traditional Japanese Massage is an excellent opportunity to work the neck muscles more deeply

The scalp is a continuation of the face; the ears have reflexes to the whole body; and both of these can be massaged without oil

Here we begin the oil part of the massage - the application of the oil is part of the massage, and flows into the actual techniques

A wonderful technique to transition from the neck to the face

A technique that requires a certain amount of coordination, but is well worth the effort to master

A versatile lifting technique that can be used in many different areas

The chin can often be neglected in massage, here you will learn how to work it in detail

Another technique that requires coordination, but is a great, effective way to work the area above and below the mouth

Learn how to work the whole surface of the nose

Learn how to work the area of the face in front of the ears, to help counteract the effects of gravity

Learn some delicate techniques to work the areas around the eyes. Very relaxing

Several ways to work the muscles of the forehead, helping to minimise frown lines

Percussion techniques feel great, tone the skin and muscles, and help to keep the client awake. They are optional, but I usually include them

Learn how to work the tsubos and meridians in such a way that is effective for the client and comfortable for you

An opportunity to check that you have the basic principles when working meridians and tsubos

Locate and work the Large Intestine tsubos and meridian

Locate and work the Stomach tsubos and meridian

Locate and work the Small Intestine tsubos and meridian

Locate and work the Bladder tsubos and meridian

Locate and work the Gall bladder tsubos and meridian

Locate and work the Triple Heater tsubos and meridian

Locate and work the Conception Vessel tsubo and meridian

Locate and work the Governing Vessel tsubos and meridian

Do you know the first aid uses of these Tsubos?

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, which can deepen a massage therapist's understanding of energy flow and holistic healing, potentially enhancing their practice
Teaches how to locate and work over 40 acupressure points on the face, which may offer clients rejuvenating and health-giving properties, expanding the therapist's service offerings
Requires learners to determine whether they need more training in order to practice professionally, which may require additional investment in education and licensing
Recommends that those without formal training only work on healthy people, which may limit the scope of practice for those without prior qualifications

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Reviews summary

Effective japanese face massage techniques

According to learners, this course offers a highly effective Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage routine that produces visible results and is deeply relaxing and energizing for clients. Students appreciate the clear, step-by-step video instruction and the inclusion of helpful PDF resources. The instructor, Anne, is praised for her extensive experience and passionate teaching style. The course provides a useful introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine basics, which helps contextualize the massage's effects. While the techniques are powerful, mastering them requires dedicated practice. The course is particularly valuable for therapists and practitioners looking to add a unique and beneficial service, although students should verify local regulations regarding professional practice.
Certificate is provided, but check local licensing rules.
"You will be given a certificate on completion of this course."
"Because laws vary in different countries and states, it is your responsibility to determine whether you need more training in order to practice professionally."
"If you are not a qualified therapist, I recommend you only work on healthy people."
Provides helpful context from Traditional Chinese Medicine.
"You will learn the basics of Traditional Chinese Medicine, so that you have some understanding about why this massage is so powerful and how it works on several levels"
"In this lecture, you will get a glimpse into the fascinating world of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and begin to understand the far reaching effects of working meridians and tsubos"
"Understanding the TCM perspective added depth to the techniques."
Instructor's expertise and teaching are highly valued.
"I based it on Traditional Japanese Face massage - once the preserve of empresses. - but combined this with techniques that I created or discovered during my 30-plus years of working as a massage therapist."
"She obviously enjoys teaching and it is a pleasure to learn with her - thank you."
"Anne's knowledge shines through, making complex ideas understandable."
Instructions are easy to follow with good videos.
"You will be taken step by step through all of the techniques with clear, concise videos, which you can replay until you are confident."
"These are accompanied by PDF files with teaching points and reminders for each technique."
"A great deal of content delivered superbly. I did not have any 'brain fog' or sense of overload."
Teaches a powerful massage with noticeable results.
"The difference on the face before and after is very visible, and for me even more important is the mood and energy change."
"clients that already said my facials were the best ever, and they would never go anywhere else.. so it's been such a delight to add this and get an even more favourable response."
"Cheeks looked plumped up. Looked in a state of bliss and kept repeating how good she felt. I feel very excited about this treatment."
"Best face massage I’ve ever had. I felt a tingling sensation all the way down my legs to my feet"
Mastering techniques takes time and effort.
"A technique that requires a certain amount of coordination, but is well worth the effort to master"
"Another technique that requires coordination, but is a great, effective way to work the area above and below the mouth"
"I need to practice these moves repeatedly to feel confident performing them smoothly."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage with these activities:
Review Basic Anatomy of the Face and Neck
Strengthen your understanding of the muscles, bones, and other structures of the face and neck. This will help you better understand the massage techniques and acupressure points covered in the course.
Browse courses on Facial Anatomy
Show steps
  • Study diagrams of facial and neck muscles and bones.
  • Review the functions of major muscles involved in facial expressions.
  • Identify key anatomical landmarks on the face and neck.
Read 'Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Visual Guide'
Expand your knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to better understand the underlying principles of Tsuboki face massage. This book provides a visual and accessible introduction to TCM concepts.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the sections on Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, and the meridian system.
  • Study the diagrams and illustrations to visualize TCM concepts.
  • Reflect on how these concepts relate to the Tsuboki face massage routine.
Read 'A Manual of Acupuncture'
Deepen your understanding of the acupressure points used in Tsuboki face massage. This book provides detailed information on the location and function of each point.
Show steps
  • Read the sections on the meridians and acupressure points covered in the course.
  • Study the diagrams and descriptions of each point.
  • Practice locating the points on yourself or a partner.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Acupressure Point Location
Reinforce your ability to accurately locate acupressure points on the face. Consistent practice will improve your precision and confidence during the massage routine.
Show steps
  • Use a facial anatomy chart to identify the location of each acupressure point.
  • Practice locating each point on yourself, using your fingertips to feel for the correct anatomical landmarks.
  • Repeat the process on a partner, providing gentle pressure to stimulate the point.
Document Your Massage Routine
Solidify your understanding of the Tsuboki face massage routine by creating a detailed written guide. This will help you internalize the steps and techniques.
Show steps
  • Write down each step of the massage routine in detail.
  • Include diagrams or photos to illustrate each technique.
  • Add notes on the benefits of each step and any modifications you might make for different clients.
Explore Advanced Acupressure Techniques
Enhance your skills by learning advanced acupressure techniques that can be incorporated into your Tsuboki face massage routine. This will allow you to customize the massage to meet the specific needs of your clients.
Show steps
  • Search online for tutorials on advanced acupressure techniques for the face.
  • Watch the tutorials and practice the techniques on yourself or a partner.
  • Consider how you can integrate these techniques into your Tsuboki face massage routine.
Offer Free Massages to Friends and Family
Gain practical experience by performing the Tsuboki face massage on others. This will help you refine your technique and build confidence.
Show steps
  • Invite friends or family members to receive a free Tsuboki face massage.
  • Prepare your massage space and gather necessary supplies.
  • Perform the massage routine, paying attention to your client's comfort and feedback.
  • Reflect on your experience and identify areas for improvement.

Career center

Learners who complete Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Massage Therapist
A massage therapist treats clients by using touch to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. This course in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage can be a valuable addition to a massage therapist's skillset, enabling them to offer specialized face massage services. The course covers deep neck massage, detailed face massage, acupressure points, and lymphatic drainage. Learning about the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupressure points allows a massage therapist to offer a more holistic and rejuvenating experience to their clients. This is especially useful for therapists wanting to expand their repertoire with specialized techniques.
Esthetician
An esthetician specializes in skincare treatments, including facials, skin analysis, and other cosmetic procedures. The Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage course directly enhances an esthetician's ability to provide specialized facial treatments. By learning the techniques of deep neck massage, acupressure, and lymphatic drainage, estheticians can offer clients a more comprehensive and therapeutic facial experience. This course also teaches the underlying principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which help the esthetician understand how the massage works on multiple levels, leading to better client outcomes and satisfaction. Adding this massage to their offerings can attract clients seeking advanced, holistic skincare.
Acupuncturist
An acupuncturist practices Traditional Chinese Medicine, stimulating specific points on the body to promote healing and well-being. While acupuncturists focus on the entire body, this course in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage provides a concentrated study of acupressure points on the face. The course's detailed instruction on locating and working with over 40 acupressure points, combined with an understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine, directly complements the practice of acupuncture. This course may help acupuncturists to enhance their treatment options, especially for clients seeking facial rejuvenation or relief from specific facial conditions. Given the detailed focus on meridians and tsubos, this offers a focused area of expertise.
Spa Director
A spa director oversees the operations of a spa, including managing staff, developing service menus, and ensuring client satisfaction. This course in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage can inform a spa director about the benefits of incorporating specialized face massage services into their spa's offerings. Understanding the techniques and principles behind this massage allows the director to make informed decisions about staff training and service development. The course's focus on Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupressure points will help the spa director appreciate the therapeutic value of this massage, making it an attractive addition to the spa's menu. This provides a foundation for incorporating unique and effective treatments.
Wellness Coach
A wellness coach guides clients towards healthier lifestyles through personalized plans and support. The principles and techniques learned in the Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage course can add a unique dimension to a wellness coach's toolkit. By understanding the connection between facial massage, acupressure points, and overall well-being, a wellness coach can educate clients on the benefits of incorporating this practice into their self-care routine. The course's emphasis on relaxation, energy balance, and Traditional Chinese Medicine may help a coach provide holistic advice and support to their clients. This offers an additional modality to promote well-being.
Reflexologist
A reflexologist applies pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears that correspond to different organs and systems in the body. While reflexology typically focuses on the feet and hands, this course in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage explores acupressure points on the face, which can complement a reflexologist's existing knowledge. The course helps reflexologists integrate facial acupressure into their practice, offering clients a more comprehensive treatment. The understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine gained from this course can further enhance a reflexologist's ability to assess and treat imbalances in the body through corresponding facial points. It provides a new area to apply similar therapeutic principles.
Holistic Therapist
A holistic therapist addresses the interconnectedness of the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of well-being. The Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage course aligns well with the principles of holistic therapy by focusing on the face as a reflection of overall health and energy balance. This course may help holistic therapists incorporate facial massage techniques into their practice, offering clients a non-invasive and relaxing approach to enhance their well-being. The course's coverage of Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupressure points may further deepen a holistic therapist's understanding of the body's energy systems and how to promote balance. This course enhances the ability to provide comprehensive care.
Beauty Blogger
A beauty blogger creates content about skincare, makeup, and beauty trends for an online audience. This course in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage can provide a beauty blogger with specialized knowledge and skills to create unique and informative content about facial massage. By understanding the techniques, benefits, and principles behind this massage, a beauty blogger can produce more engaging reviews, tutorials, and articles. The course's focus on acupressure points, lymphatic drainage, and Traditional Chinese Medicine may allow the blogger to differentiate their content and attract a wider audience interested in holistic beauty practices. It offers unique, expert insights.
Cosmetologist
A cosmetologist provides a range of beauty services, including hair styling, makeup application, and skincare treatments. This course in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage can be a valuable addition to a cosmetologist's skillset by providing specialized knowledge in facial massage techniques. Although cosmetologists already possess considerable skillset, this course may help them to offer an additional service to their customers. The course's focus on acupressure points, lymphatic drainage, and Traditional Chinese Medicine may help a cosmetologist provide a more comprehensive treatment to their clients. It expands a cosmetologist's service offerings.
Personal Trainer
A personal trainer guides clients through exercise programs and provides nutritional advice to help them achieve their fitness goals. While the Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage course may seem unrelated, it can offer a personal trainer insights into stress reduction and relaxation techniques. The course's emphasis on acupressure points and lymphatic drainage may help a personal trainer understand the importance of balancing physical activity with relaxation. This blended approach may help a trainer provide more holistic support to their clients, addressing not only their physical fitness but also their overall well-being. This may broaden the service scope.
Yoga Instructor
A yoga instructor leads students through physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques to promote physical and mental well-being. While primarily focused on postures and breath, some of the techniques learned in this course may be useful to the instructor. This course in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage provides an understanding of acupressure points and their connection to energy flow, which aligns with the principles of yoga. The incorporation of facial massage techniques may help yoga instructors offer a more comprehensive and relaxing experience to their students, particularly during savasana or restorative poses. It adds an additional layer to holistic practice.
Nutritionist
A nutritionist advises clients on healthy eating habits and creates personalized meal plans to support their health goals. While primarily focused on diet, understanding facial massage may have benefits. The Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage course's coverage of Traditional Chinese Medicine may help a nutritionist appreciate the connection between diet, energy flow, and overall well-being. While this is not directly related to diet, facial massage techniques can provide a more holistic approach to client care. This can add a holistic dimension to dietary advice.
Life Coach
A life coach supports clients in achieving their personal and professional goals through guidance and encouragement. While seemingly unrelated, the relaxation and stress-reduction aspects of Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage can complement a life coach's toolkit. This course may help life coaches understand the importance of self-care and relaxation techniques in achieving overall well-being. It could provide a unique perspective on incorporating mindfulness and stress management into their coaching practices. It offers a different modality for client care.
Executive Coach
An executive coach works with business leaders to improve their performance, communication, and leadership skills. While this course on Japanese Face Massage doesn't obviously intersect with executive coaching, the course's content on stress reduction, grounding, and overall well-being may be of value. High-performing professionals are often under great pressure, and understanding these techniques may help coaches provide holistic advice. It could be integrated into broader strategies for personal development and well-being. Executive coaches may find the relaxing elements of the massage a good fit for their high-pressure clients.
Corporate Wellness Consultant
A corporate wellness consultant designs and implements programs to improve employee health and well-being in the workplace. This course in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage can bring a unique angle. By incorporating practices that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and address overall well-being, they can bring additional value to their clients. While it is unlikely they will perform these massages, they can consult on them and understand their importance. The course provides a foundation for a consultant to guide companies in a practical way. This is an additional tool for employee well-being.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Tsuboki Japanese Face Massage.
Comprehensive guide to acupuncture points and meridians. It provides detailed information on the location, indications, and needling techniques for each point. It valuable resource for understanding the theoretical basis of acupressure and its application in Tsuboki face massage. This book is commonly used by acupuncturists and TCM practitioners.

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