Academy Courses
Our Range of Courses
From fundamental spa courses to advanced Thai massage trainings, our courses equip participants with the skills and knowledge to advance their careers in the wellness industry and bring their treatment techniques to a higher level.
Train the Spa Trainer
You might know everything about massage techniques and facial slimming treatments but transferring these skills and knowledge to someone else requires a different set of skills. Chiva-Som’s Train the Spa Trainer course, conducted in Thai only, is designed with spa trainers, supervisors and managers in mind and helps them train spa employees strategically and efficiently.
By the end of this course, participants will know how to develop teaching kits, teaching techniques, and effective ways of communication to evaluate the teaching.
Facial Contour Treatments
Facial Contour treatments aim to slim the facial outline by stimulating collagen and elastin. In Chiva-Som Academy’s Facial Contour Treatments course, participants will learn to use modified European massage techniques and stimulating rhythmic massages focused on the face and chin to achieve toned facial muscles and deep relaxation.
By the end of the course, participants will know the fundamental theories behind the treatment and understand its indications, contra-indications and benefits. Moreover, participants will be able to perform Facial Contour treatments safely and effectively.
DIY Face Lifting and Firming Workshop
While it definitely helps, a glowing and rejuvenated skin doesn’t always require a trip to the spa. During this half-day Self Face Lifting workshop, Chiva-Som Academy’s expert beauty therapists will teach you how to stimulate your facial muscles with easy face lifting massage techniques. By adding these tricks to your skin-care routine, you’ll slow down the ageing process and eliminate lines and wrinkles.
Participants will understand the causes and physiological changes of the aging process, and will be able to effectively include Self Face Lifting in their skincare routine.
Introduction to Crystal Healing Workshop
Used by ancient civilizations around the world, crystal healing is a holistic therapy method harnessing the healing powers of crystals to release mental, physical and spiritual blockages from the body. Whether you’re curious about the power of crystals or plan to use crystal healing techniques in a professional setting, Chiva-Som’s Introduction to Crystal Healing workshop will teach you to choose, cleanse, charge and use healing crystals to bring harmony to yourself or a client.
By the end of the Introduction to Crystal Healing course, participants will understand the basics theories of crystal healing and their relations to the chakras of the body. Participants will be able to choose, clean, and charge crystals and use them to perform healing treatments.
Thai Traditional Massage
A common item on many spa menus, the Thai Traditional Massage is a unique technique combining Royal Thai Massage techniques with traditional elements. As a popular choice for relieving muscle tension and improving flexibility, it’s a sought-after skill on every therapists’ resume. Chiva-Som Academy’s Thai Traditional Massage training course guides participants through the different pressure and stretching techniques and the treatment’s many uses in curing a range of ailments.
After successfully completing the Thai Traditional Massage course, participants will understand the theory behind Thai massages and the basics of traditional Thai medicine.
Thai Herbal Compress
The Thai Herbal Compress course combines stretching techniques with Thai herbal compresses to help clients increase their muscle flexibility and release chronic muscle pain and tension. Chiva-Som Academy’s Thai Herbal Compress course will guide students through a variety of stretching techniques and teach them how to effectively use herbal compresses in their spa treatments.
After successfully completing the Thai Herbal Compress course, students will understand the theories behind stretching and hot compressions on the body, as well as the indications, contra-indications and benefits of the treatments. Students will also be able to perform Thai Herbal Compress treatments safely and effectively.
Spa Treatments
From nourishing a client’s skin with natural body masks to improving their blood circulation and lymphatic drainage with hydrotherapy, Chiva-Som’s Spa Treatments training course will equip participants with the skills to perform a wide range of frequently requested spa treatments. The course covers five types of hydrotherapy, body exfoliation treatments and sauna therapy to help professional therapists expand their expertise in the spa industry.
After successfully completing the Spa Treatments course, participants will understand the theory behind spa treatments, hydrotherapy and heat treatments. Moreover, participants will be able to perform these spa treatments safely and effectively.
Spa and Wellness Management
A well-thought-out strategy and strong leadership are key to running a successful spa business. The Spa Management training course is built on Chiva-Som’s decades of experience in the spa industry and shows spa managers how to streamline day-to-day activities and improve their spa’s financial performance. Through actionable insights and individual guidance, participants will gain the skills and knowledge to help them excel as spa managers, whether they’re already experienced in the spa industry or still at the beginning of their careers.
After successfully completing the Spa Management course, participants will understand spa strategies, quality control and leadership management, and will be able to prepare financial performance overviews and asset management reports. Participants will understand the basics of human resources, sales and marketing, and spa program setting. All chapters will be accompanied by actionable tips and tools to help your spa business succeed.
Spa and Wellness Development
Setting up a spa business requires a clear strategy and knowledge of the inner workings of the health and wellness industry. Designed with spa owners, developers and operators in mind, Chiva-Som Academy’s Spa Development course provides a complete overview of the process of opening a spa business, from business plan to launch. The course offers step-by-step guidance from the start and is suitable for those seeking to enter the industry for the first time, or for existing spa business owners and managers looking to branch out or improve their knowledge and skills.
By the end of the Spa Development course, students will understand the spa industry, different spa concepts, spa design, treatment types and products. They will be equipped with the knowledge to prepare a spa business plan, and will be able to understand spa ethics and etiquettes.
Wellness Cuisine: Healthy Cooking Class
A well-nourished body is an essential step towards a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Knowledge of the basics of healthy nutrition is beneficial to both home cooks and those preparing food in a professional environment. In this course, Chiva-Som’s experienced chefs will introduce participants to the foundation of Chiva-Som’s wellness cuisine and offer step-by-step guidance on basic kitchen skills, healthy cooking techniques and professional food presentation.
After successfully completing the Wellness Cuisine course, participants will understand the theory of Spa Cuisine and healthy cooking and will be able to compile and cook their own healthy spa cuisine menus.
Slimming Massage
Clients looking to speed up the burning of fat throughout their bodies are often drawn to the Slimming Massage, a treatment combining Swedish and Eastern massage techniques to stimulate muscles with quick strokes of movement. Participants of the Slimming Massage course will learn how to adequately perform this treatment and use different kinds of essential oil to achieve their clients’ desired results.
By the end of the Slimming Massage course, participants will understand the theory behind the treatment and know its effect on the reduction of cellulite. Participants will also be able to understand the treatment’s indications, contra-indications and benefits and will be able to perform effective and safe Slimming Massage treatments.
Skin Treatments
From deep skin cleansing and masks to beautifying treatments such as eyelash tinting and basic day make-up techniques, the Skin Treatments course is designed to equip participants with a well-rounded set of skills and knowledge to carry out the most popular skin treatments. Combining hands-on practical training with background theory such as skin analysis and skin conditions, participants will learn to improve their clients’ skin through a holistic approach.
By the end of the course, participants will understand the theory behind skin treatments, and the indications, contraindications and benefits of the different techniques. Participants will also be able to perform them safely and effectively.
Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage
Back, neck and shoulder massages are popular items on any spa menu. Using techniques adapted from deep tissue massage treatments, they focus on the upper part of the body and aim to release tension in the back, shoulder and neck areas. Chiva-Som Academy’s Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage course teaches participants the stroking and pressure techniques to help their clients combat common problems such as office syndrome and tired muscles.
By the end of the Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage, participants will be able to understand its underlying theories and the indications, contra-indications and benefits of the treatment. Participants will also be able to perform safe and effective Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage treatments.
Reiki
Rooted in Japanese alternative medicine, Reiki, or energy healing, is a powerful spiritual experience helping clients find deep relaxation by balancing their main energy point, the “chakra”. In this introductory Reiki course, participants will learn how to guide their clients towards their inner peace, helping them relieve pain, stress, and tension.
By the end of the course, participants will understand the fundamental theories of Reiki and the indications, contra-indications and benefits of Reiki treatments. Moreover, participants will be able to perform Reiki safely and effectively.
Oriental Foot Massage
As one of the most commonly requested treatments in spas around the world, the Oriental Foot Massage aims to improve blood circulation and release tension in the legs and feet. Chiva-Som Academy’s Oriental Foot Massage course guides participants through the process of cleansing the feet and helps them master the art of a professional foot massage.
By the end of the Oriental Foot Massage course, participants will understand the theory behind the treatment and accurately identify the anatomy of the foot. They will understand the indications, contra-indications and benefits of foot massages, and will be able to perform them at a professional level.
Mukha-Shirodhara Treatment
Rooted in Ayurvedic beliefs, Mukha-Shirodhara combines ancient Indian healing systems called Ayurvedic Face Therapy (or “Mukha Abhyanga”) and Ayurvedic Head Oil Therapy (or “Shirodhara”) to help patients regain balance in their bodies and minds. Participants of Chiva-Som Academy’s Mukha-Shirodhara course will be guided through the rich history and many aspects of this treatment and will learn to perform massages on the face, neck and upper shoulder area and use warm oil dripping techniques to heal the nervous system.
By the end of the Mukha-Shirodhara course, participants will understand the theories behind Ayurvedic Mukhabhyanga Face Therapy and Shirodhara treatments and recognise their indications, contra-indications and benefits. Moreover, participants will be able to perform Ayurvedic Mukhabhyanga Face Therapy and Shirodhara treatments safely and effectively.
Gut Healing Treatment
Combining traditional Thai and Chinese massage techniques, Gut Healing Treatments help patients release bodily tension over the navel and surrounding areas. The treatment is designed to clear out toxins and negative emotions held in the organs of the digestive area, resulting in an improved digestive system. Chiva-Som Academy’s Gut Healing Treatment course introduces participants to the basics of these ancient techniques and equips them with the skills to help their clients achieve a healthier lifestyle.
By the end of the Gut Healing Treatment course, participants will understand the theory of Gut Healing and its relation to the human digestive system. They will understand the indications, contraindications and benefits of the treatment, and will be able to perform Gut Healing treatments safely and effectively.
Basic Manual Lymphatic Drainage Treatment
This gentle and rhythmic massage treatment focuses on the lymphatic system to aid detoxification by increasing lymphatic flow and blood circulation to prevent their imbalances (and the negative consequences). It’s a fundamental technique in many treatment types, often used to improve muscle tone, skin texture and relaxation. The CIBTAC-certified Basic Manual Lymphatic Drainage course helps participants master the ability to adequately perform this technique, enhancing their treatment routines as a result.
By the end of the Basic Manual Lymphatic Drainage Treatment course, participants will understand the treatment’s fundamental theories and its indications, contra-indications and benefits. Participants will also be able to perform safe and effective Manual Lymphatic Drainage treatments on their patients.
Manual Face Lifting and Firming Treatments
Manual Face Lifting and Firming treatments combine facial muscle studies with Eastern pressure point treatments and European massage techniques to stimulate and rejuvenate sagging skin and tired muscles. The Manual Face Lifting and Firming course offers participants an introduction to this popular treatment, and will equip them with the skills to help their clients achieve naturally lifted and refreshed faces.
By the end of the Manual Face Lifting and Firming course, participants will have a thorough understanding of the treatment’s fundamental theories and their relation to the anatomy of facial muscles. Participants will understand the indications, contra-indications and benefits of the treatment, and will be able to perform Manual Face Lifting and Firming treatments safely and effectively.
Indian Head Massage
Often requested for their contribution to improved concentration and relief of mental tension, Indian Head Massages are based on ancient massage techniques to stimulate patients’ blood flow and the distribution of oxygen and nutrients to nourish the scalp. In Chiva-Som’s Indian Head Massage course, participants will be trained to competently perform Indian Head Massage treatments on their clients.
By the end of the Indian Head Massage course, participants will understand the fundamental theories of Indian Head Massages. They will understand the indications, contra-indications and benefits of Ayurvedic treatments, and will be able to perform them safely and effectively.
Hot Stone Massage
Known for its deeply relaxing effects and the ability to ease away tensions, this popular massage technique uses hot stones to let heat penetrate deep into the muscles to encourage a chemical release within the body’s system. The Hot Stone Massage course offers an introduction to the treatment’s key techniques and equips participants with the skills and knowledge to safely prepare and perform hot stone massages on the face and body.
By the end of the Hot Stone Massage course, participants will understand the theory of hot stones and the functions of heat modality. They will understand the indications, contra-indications and benefits of hot stone massage treatments, and will be able to perform them safely and effectively.
Haven Facial Treatments
Popular for their hydrating and rejuvenating effects on the skin, Haven Facial Treatments use a combination of exfoliation massages, masks and moisturising techniques to leave patients’ faces feel cleansed and refreshed. In The Haven Facial Treatment course, will learn to provide skin analysis, perform cleansing treatments and create custom treatment programmes for their clients.
By the end of the course, participants will understand the fundamental theories of Haven Facial Treatments. They will understand the indications, contra-indications and benefits of Haven Facial Treatments and will be able to perform them safely and effectively.
Hand, Foot, Nail and Waxing Treatments
Hand, foot, nail and waxing techniques are some of the most important skills for a beauty therapist. In the Hand, Foot, Nail and Waxing Treatments course, Chiva-Som’s expert instructors will provide participants with the skills and knowledge to offer their clients a complete pampering routine. Participants will learn how to file, shape, mask and polish nails, and perform cuticle work and hand and feet massages. Participants will also learn how to effectively wax all areas of the body, including the bikini line and eyebrows with different waxing techniques.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to understand the theory of Hand, Foot, Nail and Waxing Treatments, as well as the indications, contra-indications and benefits of various treatments techniques. With the course’s practical approach, participants will be able to safely and effectively perform the treatments in a professional capacity.
Facial Detox Treatments
Facial Detox treatments are sought after for their soothing and rejuvenating effects on the skin and their ability to increase resistance to the effects of stress and disease. The Facial Detox course offers an introduction to the fundamental techniques of Facial Detox treatments and teaches participants the benefits and practicalities of lymphatic drainage, essential oils and facial masks.
By the end of the Facial Detox course, participants will have a thorough understanding of the fundamental theories of Facial Detox treatments and the lymphatic circulation system. They will understand the indications, contra-indications and benefits of Facial Detox treatments, and will be able to perform them safely and effectively.
Diet and Nutrition
Knowledge of nutrients and their functions, and the ability to recognise disorders associated with foods and diets is essential for beauty therapists and those working in related fields. Chiva-Som Academy’s Diet and Nutrition course offers an introduction to the digestive system and the effects of different nutrients and antioxidants to help participants greatly improve their consultations and treatment plans.
By the end of the Diet and Nutrition course, participants will understand how the digestive system works and recognise a variety of health disorders caused by food and dietary habits. Participants will also be able to name the structures and functions of nutrients, evaluate food quality, eating habits, and the change of activity patterns over a period of time.
Deep Tissue Massage
The Deep Tissue Massage treatment uses techniques focused on the deep layers of the muscular system to release tension and improve the flexibility of the joints. The treatment is similar to the traditional Swedish massage, but uses more pressure and focuses on different body parts to manage musculoskeletal problems. The Deep Tissue Massage training course will guide participants through different massage techniques and teach them to perform this intensive massage treatment safely and effectively.
By the end of the Deep Tissue Massage course, participants will be able to understand theoretical aspects of Deep Tissue Massages and the indications, contra-indications and benefits of the treatment. Participants will also be able to perform safe and effective Deep Tissue Massage treatments.
Body Massage Course
By using techniques to increase blood circulation and lymphatic flow, massage therapy improves muscle tone and skin texture and offers relief from muscular tension, aches and pains. Chiva-Som’s CIBTAC-certified Body Massage training course is designed as an entry-level introduction to massage therapy. With a focus on the use of oil and Swedish massage techniques, it equips participants with the skills to perform effective body massages. Moreover, participants will receive certification from one of Thailand’s most renowned massage schools.
By the end of the Body Massage course, participants will be able to understand the theory behind body massage therapy and the indications, contraindications and benefits of various massage treatments. With the course’s practical approach, participants will be able to safely and effectively perform relaxing body massages.
Basic Ayurvedic Treatments
Originating from India, Ayurvedic treatments draw from herbal medicinal oils and therapeutic techniques to strengthen the body’s internal life force. Ayurvedic massages relax muscles and stimulate the nervous system, relieving patients from tiredness and tension. The Basic Ayurvedic Treatments course offers a theoretical and practical introduction to the fundamental concepts of Ayurveda and equips participants with the skills to put these ancient philosophies into practice.
By the end of the Basic Ayurvedic Treatments course, participants will have a thorough understanding of the fundamental theories of Ayurveda, including the five elements and Marma points of the body. They will understand the indications, contra-indications and benefits of Ayurvedic treatments, and will be able to perform them safely and effectively.
Basic Reflexology
Reflexology is an alternative therapy involving the application of pressure through hand and finger massage techniques to the reflex points around the feet. These points will affect specific body parts and help the body return to a balanced state by relieving stress and tension. The Basic Reflexology training course offers an introduction to the fundamental concepts of Reflexology and teaches students to perform Reflexology treatments on their clients.
By the end of the Basic Reflexology course, students will understand the key principles of Reflexology and will be able to identify the structure and pressure points of the feet. Participants will be able to evaluate the indications, contra-indications and benefits of Reflexology treatments.
Anatomy and Physiology
An adequate understanding of the anatomy of the human body and the various systems within is essential for anyone working in beauty therapy, complementary therapy or in related fields. Chiva-Som Academy’s Anatomy and Physiology course introduces participants to the imperative theory behind body structures, functions and disorders to help therapists improve their consultations, treatments, and evaluations.
By the end of the Anatomy and Physiology course, participants will understand the basic structures, functions, diseases and disorders of the various systems within the human body. This course also serves as a pre-requisite for a range of beauty therapy and complementary therapy courses at Chiva-Som International Academy.
Basic Hot Stone Back Massage
The Hot Stone Back Massage treatment is a type of alternative therapy focused on releasing tension from the back, neck and shoulder areas. Using heat from hot stones to penetrate deep into the muscles, it helps clients relax and ease tension. The treatment is known to help relieve chronic pain from repetitive injuries and improve blood circulation in the treated areas. The Basic Stone for Back course guides participants through the key elements and different techniques of the treatment and helps them practice it safely and effectively.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to understand the theory of hot stones and heat modality, as well as the indications, contra-indications and benefits of Stone for Back therapy. Thanks to the course’s hands-on approach, participants will be able to perform safe and effective Hot Stone Back Massage treatments.
Body Contour
Body Contour treatments focus on the stimulation of micro-circulation to help clients achieve their desired body shapes and reduce cellulite. The Body Contour course offers participants an in-depth introduction to the various treatment methods, including cupping techniques and contour body wraps.
By the end of the Body Contour course, participants will understand how to conduct cellulite evaluations and measurements and will have gained in-depth knowledge about cellulite treatment products, cupping techniques and body contour wrapping. Moreover, participants will be able to perform Body Contour treatments safely and effectively.