COURSES

THAI YOGA MASSAGE RETREAT
Rhythm and Stillness
21-25 August 2024
Borgo San Lorenzo (Florence)

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Rhythm & Stillness
THAI MASSAGE RETREAT: a journey toward the heart

Five days of retreat and work on/with the body in which we practice: multiple levels of touch exploring Traditional Thai Massage (Nuad), Dynamic Thai Massage and Osteothai; the personal practice of conscious movement, meditation; the spirit of welcome and community (sangha).

FOCUS ON THE HEART
In this third edition we will focus on the Heart: the master/fulcrum of the organs.
The heart and its arterial network are the central system for the rhythmic movement of life through the myocardium and all the systems connected to it: it is a master-clock generator of systemic coherence; defined as the fulcrum of fulcrums as its vital function is that of integration. Far from being a mere pump and system of pipes, ancient traditions and scientific research have shown that the heart can influence the entire body in various ways. The heart is, in fact, a highly complex, self-organized information processing center with its own functional “brain” that communicates with and influences the cranial brain via the nervous system, hormonal system and other pathways. These influences profoundly affect brain function and most of the body’s major organs, and ultimately determine the quality of life.

THAI MASSAGE & OSTEOTHAI: THE CHANGE OF RHYTHMS
Being able to adapt and change the rhythm of your treatment to the different needs of the receiver brings greater therapeuIc effecIveness, creaIvity, fluidity as well as playfulness and intuiIon in the practice.

MULTIPLES LEVELS OF TOUCH
This is what is needed to learn to communicate with the different layers and issues of the body. We learn different types of touch to support the system at every level: musculoskeletal, fascial, fluidic, energetic, craniosacral, etc.

LIFE IS RHYTHM
Rhythm is one of the fundamental principles of life. Rhythm allows adaptation, transformation and evolution. To respect and acknowledge the rhythms that regulate biological, physical and natural life allows us to find a beneficial balance that will always be made up of alternating phases of movement and stillness.

THE STILLNESS
Stop, calm down, rest… as the great masters of Buddhism teach us, it is only in the practice of stillness (calm abiding) that the preliminary conditions for individual and collective healing are found.
In bodily practices it is in the moment of stillness that the “system” integrates and adjusts, rediscovering homeostasis and self-regulation.

“THE JOURNEY TOWARDS THE HEART IS A JOURNEY TOWARDS HOME”
FOR WHOM IS THIS RETREAT?
This retreat is an invitation to you to come back home, in the center of your heart. We wish the participation for those who work with body-mind -spirit system, who have minimal or advanced experience in Thai Massage, Shiatsu or Yoga practice, fisio, osteopaths and anyone who wants to implement their own practice with different and useful perspectives, anyone who want to learn how to take care with love and kindness through the “art of touch”. We also welcome dancers, artists or those who work with expression, all those who wish to find new inspiration for their vocation.

FACILITATORS
You will be guided by two teachers, Flora (Italy) and Pasi (Finland), both Master Osteothai with decades of experience in teaching Thai Massage, Yoga and meditation. You will be able to appreciate their differences, geographical origins and cultural specificities, their kind and funny way to teach.

WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS RETREAT:
    • DAILY MEDITATION PRACTICES ON/WITH THE HEART
    • PRACTICES WITH THE ABUNDANT NATURE’S RESOURCES
    • DAILY CONSCIOUS MOVEMENT
    • WELCOME AND SPIRIT OF THE SANGHA
    • NOURISHMENT FOR THE HEART, BODY AND SPIRIT WITH ETHICAL FOOD
    • LOVELY MUSIC, SINCERE SMILING, HUGGING AND KIND SPEECH
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN AND PRACTICE EVERY DAY:
  • HOW TO FOCUS ON YOUR HEART AS A GIVER/THERAPIST
  • HOW THE DIFFERENT TRADITIONS AND SCIENCE CONCEIVE THE HEART AS A FULCRUM/MASTER OF THE SYSTEM
  • DIFFERENT TECHNIQUE TO NOURISH THE HEART OF THE RECEIVER
  • GUIDED AND SUPERVISED SEQUENCES OF THAI MASSAGE, OSTEOTHAI AND DYNAMIC THAI
  • HOW TO SUPPORT COHERENCE, MOBILITY AND VITALITY OF THE HEART
  • SPECIAL FOCUS ON FASCIAL NETWORKS AND VISCERA
  • HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR ABILITY TO FEEL&LISTEN WITH MORE CONSCIOUS TOUCH, PRESENCE AND METTA
  • HOW AND WHY TO USE DIFFERENT TYPES OF TOUCH AND RHYTHMS IN THE TREATMENT
  • HOW TO MANAGE A TREATMENT IN A FLUID, EFFECTIVE AND CREATIVE WAY BALANCING PRESENCE, LISTENING, PRECISION AND INTENTION
PASI KUUSELA BIO

Certified massage therapist and massage teacher with over 20 years of experience in healthcare and bodywork. His deep interest in the body, mind, and spirit, as well as the importance of awareness and presence, has moIvated him to travel and learn from various teachers worldwide. Over the years, he has practiced and studied many different forms of therapy, including Thai yoga massage, Osteothai, Craniosacral therapy, Osteopathy Classical massage, Sports massage, Yoga, and Meditation.

For eight years he travelled to Thailand deepening his knowledge of Thai yoga massage and Osteothai. In recent years, Pasi has focused his studies with Krishnatakis, David Lutt, and Jörg Schürpf, also completing the Master Osteothai training (MOT). Studying and travelling in Asia opened his views on life, and his spiritual growth was strengthened by a serious illness. His goal is to live an honest, authenIc, and love-filled life and to encourage others to do the same.

Pasi guides and teaches through his own experiences, emphasising the importance of honesty, trust, gentelness, and sensitivity. His goal is to support students in their own experiential and individual development.
Currently Pasi works in his own wellbeing studio in Finland and organises trainings and courses both in Finland and Europe. At the same time he is studying osteopathy to deepen his understanding of holistic healing. He enjoys spending time with his family, singing, playing guitar and ice swimming.

Learn More:
hkps://pasikuusela.com/ hkps://www.instagram.com/pasi.kuusela hkps://www.youtube.com/@pasikuusela-theartofvinimaya hkps://www.facebook.com/Pasi.Kuusela.Vinimaya/

WHERE:

Tenuta Ferracci (Polcanto – Borgo San Lorenzo) province of Florence

In the splendid Tuscan hills, in the middle of the woods and in a peaceful atmosphere. We are located in the splendid landscape of the Tuscan hills, at about 600 meters above sea level. 25 km from Florence, the city of the Renaissance, in a land of history and nature, in a place of peace and spirituality near the Sanctuary of Montesenario, along the pilgrimage route of the “Via degli Dei”, near Fiesole, as well as to the famous Mugello area.

The main house is a typical Tuscan farmhouse, surrounded by an immense chestnut forest, far from the noise and lights of the city. The outdoor space is abundant and generous. We will have Ime to go for walks and excursions, alone or in a group. We will come into deep contact with the beautiful trees surrounding the practice house.

Members of your “tribe/family” are also very welcome to enjoy the surrounding space. Unfortunately we are not able to receive pets.

ACCOMODATION AND FOOD:

The house is rustic and simple. It has mulIple rooms/dorms (with 4-6-8 beds, mainly bunk beds), plus shared bathrooms and showers.
For those who prefer it is possible to come with your own tent/caravan. Unfortunately we are unable to provide water and electricity. In this case the cost is the same.
3 vegetarian meals (with dairy products).
We can provide vegan and gluten-free meals.

INDICATIVE DAILY SCHEDULE:
  • 7-8.30 meditayion and yoga/conscious movement practices outdoors
  • 10-12.30 Thai Massage/Dynamic Thai/Osteothai classes
  • 1pm-4pm lunch, relaxaIon, sunbathing, excursions, games
  • 16-19 Thai Massage/Dynamic Thai/Osteothai classes
  • 19 dinner
  • After dinner, free time or practices
  • Noble silence until after breakfast
THAI YOGA MASSAGE RETREAT: “A journey toward the Heart”

Date: 21-25 August 2024
Where: Borgo San Lorenzo (Florence)
Days: 5
Schedule: from 12 pm of the 21st till 4 pm of the 25th
For Whom: beginners and advanced in Thai Massage and other massage disciplines
Language: Italian and English, with translation
Teachers:
Flora Bisogno, Pasi Kuusela
Costs: € 690,00 for EARLY BIRD before 30.05 (included food and accomodation); € 760 after this date

CLICK FOR BOOKING: application 

  1. Fill the application and send it to
  2. You will then receive an email with the details for the deposit
  3. Please send the deposit’s receipt to the same mail
  4. Your place is reserved!
ASK MORE INFOS






    OSTEOTHAI WORKSHOP ON HARMONIC TECHNIQUES
    21-23 June 2024
    Firenze

    1000 1000 Flora

    OSTEOTHAI WORKSHOP ON HARMONIC TECHNIQUES

    Seminario Osteothai e tecniche armoniche con Flora Bisogno a Firenze

    In this workshop we will introduce general Osteothai’s principles, we will study and practice techniques which combine Thai Massage and osteopathy based on the gentle oscillation of different parts of the body.
    These techniques mainly consist of cyclic movements (patterns), oscillations and rhythmic movements and allow the different layers of tissues to resonate with physical mechanisms such as pendulum and spring. We will learn how to bring relief, mobility and vitality to all parts of the body to which they are applied.
    You will learn simple, precise, effective and safe techniques to integrate into the treatment you already offer. We will focus on the most common symptoms such as muscle contractures, tissue adhesions, lack of flexibility, scars and post-traumatic contractures, edema, inflammation and lack of drainage.

    This workshop is for practitioners who have a basis of study and practice of Thai Massage (Level 1 and 2) but is also open to those who practice or study other disciplines and want to learn new techniques.

    GENERAL PROGRAM
    • Introduction to the main principles of Osteothai
    • Understanding the cyclical rhythm pattern from different perspectives: physical, biological, emotional, etc.
    • Harmonics and oscillations principles in theory and practice
    • Relationship between fascia, viscera, nervous system, muscles and skeletal structure
    • Theory and practice of cyclic stretching and pumping techniques (spring, recoil)
    • Applications on the spine, joints, some muscles
    • Case studies and common symptoms
    OSTEOTHAI WORKSHOP ON HARMONIC TECHNIQUES

    Date: 21-23 June 2024
    Where: Florence
    Duration: 1  weekend
    Schedule: Fri. 16-19; Sat. 10-18; Sun. 10-16
    Prerequisites: experience in Thai Massage (or other disciplines)
    Language: italian, English
    Facilitator:
    Flora Bisogno
    Cost: € 290 booking open

    ASK FOR MORE INFO






      DYNAMIC THAI MASSAGE COURSE
      28.03-1.04.2024
      Florence

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      DYNAMIC THAI MASSAGE COURSE “THE POETRY OF PERPETUAL MOVEMENT”

      Corso di Dynamic Thai Massage con Flora Bisogno a Firenze

      It takes place over two weekends, or five residential days, for a total of 35 hours of training. It is aimed at those who want to bring diversity in touch, rhythm, together with fluidity, creativity and playfulness to the treatment. The course is aimed in particular at those who have completed Thai Massage level 1 and 2, but also at those who practice different traditions on the ground, who have previous experience. It is possible to access as beginners after an interview.
      Dynamic Thai treatment is a creative and therapeutic way of working on the body to restore its mobility and free the nervous system through connection with the water element. The “dynamic modality” of Thai Massage is inspired by the master and therapist Ajahn Chaiyut Priyasith (Northern Thailand) and masterfully reinterpreted and developed in Europe and Asia by David Lutt (France) and KrishnaTakis (Greece). The right combination of gentle shaking, oscillatory and harmonic techniques allow an effective release and balance of the nervous system, drainage of the lymphatic system, stimulation of the circulatory system and restoration of mobility in the musculoskeletal sys and in the tissues.
      Furthermore, being a very playful treatment, it stimulates good humor and joy for those who do it and those who receive it.
      This type of treatment combines some techniques coming directly from Thai Massage and some from Osteopathy (harmonic techniques, general GOT treatment, rocking and shaking).

      MAIN TOPICS
      • Specificity, common elements and differences between traditional Thai Massage and Dynamic
      • Rhythm and precision: resources for an effective and creative treatment
      • Biomechanics of Dynamic Thai Massage
      • In-depth study of the concepts of mobility and vitality
      • In-depth study of the Water element in the body
      • Different types of touch and therapeutic functions
      • Joy, playfulness and creativity for the nervous system
      • Benefits for practitioner and receiver
      THE SEQUENCES
      • Dynamic sequences for the whole body
      • Smooth and harmonious transitions
      • Integration
      TEACHING MATERIALS
      • Booklet notes: general program and sequences with photos
      DYNAMIC THAI MASSAGE
      “The poetry of the perpetual movement”

      When: 28.03-1.04.2024 Easter Retreat
      Where: Florence (Tuscany)
      Duration: 5 days
      Requires: Level 1 and 2 Thai Massage, or minimum experience in Thai Massage, shiatsu, body therapy, beginners after interview
      Language: italian, english
      Teacher:
      Flora Bisogno
      Certificate: Certificate:: Dynamic Thai Massage, Mindful Touch & Movement
      Cost (without accommodation and food): € 490

      ASK FOR MORE INFO






        OSTEOTHAI WORKSHOP: MOBILITY AND VITALITY FOR THE JOINTS
        15-17 January 2024
        Chiang Mai, Thailand

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        OSTEOTHAI WORKSHOP: MOBILITY AND VITALITY FOR THE JOINTS in Thailand

        Seminario Osteothai per le articolazioni con Flora Bisogno a Firenze

        The joints are key points of our physical and energy body. In this seminar, after introducing useful concepts of anatomy and biomechanics, you will learn simple, safe and effective technique to restore mobility and vitality in the ankles, knees, hips, wrists and shoulders. You will learn a sequence of repetitive, gentle and precise movements, following the principles of Osteothai, to increase recovery and adaptation.

        GENERAL PROGRAM
        • The (possible) encounter between Thai Massage and Osteopathy
        • Introduction to the concept of mutual tension and slack
        • Homeostasis and self-regulation
        • Presence, intention, attention: the resources for effective and precise treatment
        • GOT for the joints
        • In-depth study of the concept of joint mobility and vitality
        • Benefits and contraindications
        SEQUENCES
        • Osteothai technique for ankles, knees, hips, wrists and shoulders
        • GOT
        • Routine and Integration
        OSTEOTHAI WORKSHOP MOBILITY AND VITALITY FOR THE MAIN JOINTS

        Date: 15-17 January 2024
        Where: Sunshine Massage School, Chiang Mai (Thailand)
        Duration: 3 days
        Request: experience in Thai Massage
        Language: English
        Teacher:
        Flora Bisogno
        Certificate: Approved by The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) 
        Cost :  THB 8,100 (approx. € 223)
        Bookings and info – Please contact directly: https://www.sunshine-advanced-courses.com/contact.html

        ASK FOR INFO






          DYNAMIC THAI MASSAGE
          8-12 January 2024
          Chiang Mai, Thailand

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          DYNAMIC THAI MASSAGE – Sunshine Massage School – Thailand

          Corso di Dynamic Thai Massage con Flora Bisogno a Firenze

          I’m very glad to announce this opportunity to teach Dynamic Thai in Thailand.

          This course is held in English, lasts five days, and takes place at the prestigious Sunshine Massage School in Chiang Mai (northern Thailand).

          Thai Dynamic is aimed at those who want to bring diversity in touch, rhythm, together with fluidity, creativity and playfulness to the treatment, for those who have completed the Thai Massage level 1 and 2, but also for those who practice different traditions of treatments on the floor and who has some experience.

          Dynamic Thai treatment is a creative and therapeutic way of working on the body to restore its mobility and free the nervous system through connection with the water element. The “dynamic modality” of Thai Massage is inspired by the master and therapist Ajahn Chaiyut Priyasith (Northern Thailand) and masterfully reinterpreted and developed in Europe and Asia by David Lutt (France) and Takis Oekonomi (Greece).

          The right combination of gentle shaking, oscillatory and harmonic techniques allow an effective release and balance of the nervous system, drainage of the lymphatic system, stimulation of the circulatory system and restoration of mobility in the musculoskeletal system and in the tissues (layers of band). Furthermore, being a very playful treatment, it stimulates good humor and joy for those who do it and those who receive it.

          This type of treatment combines some techniques coming directly from Thai Massage and some from Osteopathy (harmonic techniques, general GOT treatment, rocking and shaking).

          PROGRAM
          • Specificity, common elements and differences between traditional Thai Massage and Dynamic
          • Rhythm, stillness, precision: resources for an effective and creative treatment
          • Biomechanics of Dynamic Thai Massage
          • In-depth study of the concepts of mobility and vitality
          • Water in the body and how it resonates in movement
          • Different types of touch and therapeutic functions
          • Joy, playfulness and creativity for the nervous system
          • Benefits and contraindications for practitioner and receiver
          SEQUENCES
          • Dynamic sequences for the whole body
          • Smooth and harmonious transitions
          • Integration
          BOOKLET
          • Booklet notes: general program and sequences with photos
          DYNAMIC THAI MASSAGE
          “THE POETRY OF PERPETUAL MOVEMENT”

          Date: 8-12 January 2024
          Where: Sunshine Massage School, Chiang Mai, Thailand
          Duration: 5 days
          Requested: previous experience in Thai Massage
          Language: English
          Teacher:
          Flora Bisogno
          Certificate: Approved by The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) 
          Costs:  13,500 THB, (approx. € 372)
          Bookings and info directly: https://www.sunshine-advanced-courses.com/contact.html

          ASK FOR MORE INFOS






            OSTEOTHAI WORKSHOP FOR THE LOWER BACK PAIN
            1-3 December 2023
            Florence

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            OSTEOTHAI WORKSHOP FOR THE LOWER BACK PAIN 

            Seminario Osteothai per la schiena (lombare) con Flora Bisogno a Firenze

            The causes of chronic lumbar back pain, a widespread condition, can be numerous, which is why it is important to treat it with an holistic approach, that is, from various points of view: postural, musculoskeletal, visceral, energetic, mental, nutritional and psychological.
            With this seminar you will learn how to treat, relieve and prevent lower back pain in your receivers safely, with Osteothai. You will be able to integrate your current approach, as a therapist and/or as a teacher of body-mind disciplines, with simple principles and technique that come from the combination of the tradition of Thai Massage and osteopathy.
            In a gentle, safe and effective way, this approach prevent and relieve chronic pain, lead to awareness of possible causes and solutions, support the process of (self) healing, assist and integrate other possible or necessary therapies.

            MAIN TOPICS
            • The (possible) encounter between Thai Massage and Osteopathy
            • Introduction to the concept of reciprocal tension and slack
            • Homeostasis and self-regulation
            • Presence, intention, attention: the resources for effective and precise treatment
            • Major disorders of the spine: “diagnostics” of exclusion
            • Acute pain and chronic pain
            • Focus on muscles, ligaments and viscera of interest
            • Indications for a happy and safe back
            THE SEQUENCES
            • Osteothai sequences for chronic lumbar back pain
            • Supine, lateral and prone technique (also useful in yoga classes)
            • Osteothai Meditation as powerful tool
            OSTEOTHAI WORKSHOP FOR THE LOWER BACK PAIN

            When: 1-3 December 2023
            Where: Florence (Tuscany)
            Duration: 1  weekend
            Timing: Friday 16-19; sat. 10-18; sun. 10-16
            Requires: minimum experience in thai massage, shiatsu, body therapy after interview
            Language: italian, english
            teacher:
            Flora Bisogno
            Cost: € 290

            ASK FOR MORE INFO






              THAI MASSAGE COURSE LEVEL 2
              3-5 November e 17-19 November 2023
              Florence

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              THAI MASSAGE COURSE LEVEL 2 “THE SACRED DANCE OF THAI MASSAGE”

              Corso di formazione di Thai Massage con Flora Bisogno a Firenze

              It takes place over two weekends, or in a 5-day residential course, for a total of 35 hours of training. Level 1 must be completed to access (also from other school of the Network).
              Allows access to Advanced Thai courses and Osteothai seminars.
              In Level 2 we review the foundations and principles covered in Level 1, we practice some more dynamic advanced techniques. We introduce other concepts of Traditional Thai Medicine such as the theory of the elements and the use of herbs and compress. We practice exercises useful for developing greater sensitivity and intuition in the art of touch. We see more efficient sequences and transitions in responding to the specific needs of the receiver. We will explore the therapeutic aspects of Thai Massage for the most common symptoms such as back pain, neck and shoulder tension, headaches, knee pain.

              MAIN TOPICS
              • Level 1 Thai contents review and completion of the sequence
              • Deepening of principles and techniques aimed to specific needs
              • Development of touch sensitivity and intuition
              • Focus on transitions: fluidity, harmony and grace in the treatment
              • Therapeutic aspects
              • Herbal compress
              SEQUENCES
              • Invitation to Savasana
              • Russian/Hanuman dance
              • Side position
              • The “Blood stop
              • General treatment of the belly
              • Integration with some dynamic/static technique in prone and side position
              • Seated position
              TEACHING MATERIALS
              • Booklet notes: general program and sequences with photos
              THAI MASSAGE COURSE
              LEVEL 2
              “The Sacred Dance of Thai Massage”

              When: 3-5 and 17-19 November 2023
              Where: Florence
              Duration: 35 hours / 2 weekend
              Requested:  Level 1 (also from other schools of the Network)
              Language: italiano, english
              Teacher:
              Flora Bisogno
              Certificate: Certificate:: Thai Massage 2,
              Lulyani School of Thai Massage & Osteothai
              Cost: € 490 -ALMOST FULL-

              ASK FOR MORE INFO






                THAI MASSAGE COURSE LEVEL 1
                29 September-1 October
                6-8 October 2023
                Florence

                1024 873 daniela

                THAI MASSAGE COURSE LEVEL 1 “THE ART OF MINDFUL TOUCH”

                Corso di formazione di Thai Massage Livello 1 con Flora Bisogno a Firenze
                THAI MASSAGE BASIC COURSE
                (NORTHERN STYLE)

                The basic course in Thai Massage is divided into two levels for a total of 70 hours of training. It takes place over four weekends or in two blocks of five days each in residential form. Those who intend to practice this discipline as a profession are suggested to repeat the two levels at least twice and to practice between one training and another, if possible to attend the Dynamic Thai course and/or the Thai Advanced courses. To deepen the art of Mindful Touch you can also follow the Osteothai seminars, retreats and special events.

                THAI MASSAGE COURSE LEVEL 1
                “The art of mindful touch”

                It takes place over two weekends, or in a 5-day residential course, for a total of 35 hours of training. There are no prerequisites to access it.

                MAIN PROGRAM
                • The historical roots, the theoretical and practical foundations of Thai Yoga Massage
                • The spiritual foundations of Thai Massage: the “Four Immeasurable” and the “Three jewels”
                • The basic principles of touch and technique
                • Posture and breathing during the treatment
                • Benefits and contraindications
                • “Sen” lines: where to find them and how to treat them
                • The care of oneself, of the other and of the setting
                SEQUENCES
                • Feet and ankles treatment
                • Sen lines on the legs
                • Lower limb stretching exercises
                • Treatment in side position
                • General treatment of abdomen, chest, arms
                • Treatment in prone position
                • Sen lines on the back
                • Neck and face treatment
                • Final integration
                TEACHING MATERIALS
                • Booklet notes: general program and sequences with photos
                THAI MASSAGE COURSE
                LEVEL 1
                “The art of Mindful Touch”

                When: 29 September-1 October; 6-8 October 2023
                Where: Florence
                Duration: 35 hours / 2 weekend
                Requires: none
                Language: italian, english
                Teacher:
                Flora Bisogno
                Certificate: Certificate Thai Massage 1,
                Lulyani School of Thai Massage & Osteothai
                Cost: € 490

                ASK FOR MORE INFO