Diploma in Structural Rebalancing

Main Course Tutor and College Principal, Michael Gibbons,

MAMP, CST, IIST, IHBC, IIHHT

My Journey

“Structural Rebalancing has evolved from my experience with bodywork.

I started massage in 1991 and since then have trained in many other forms of bodywork:  Sports/remedial massage, Aromatherapy, Thai yoga massage.  I also undertook a 4 year training at the McTimoney College, Oxford and a 2 year course in Biodynamic Cranio-Sacral Therapy.  Over the years, all of my experiences/trainings and treatments that I have given, have helped to fuse and develop an approach to bodywork which I believe to be very effective.

I have developed this idea of Structural Rebalancing into a treatment form that I can teach because typically what is on offer at present in training, is highly expensive courses taught over several years in disciplines such as chiropractic, osteopathy and physiotherapy which are prohibitive for many experienced therapists to train in, due to cost or time commitment.

My passion is to share this technique with yourself, as a qualified bodyworker/massage therapist.  I totally believe that any experienced bodyworker can integrate this bodywork into their practice and get results often associated with being only achievable by the more mainstream approaches.

Soft tissue work should not be regarded or seen as second best, this is a new era in bodywork and there are many new wonderful techniques about!  Structural Rebalancing is based on simple ideas of balance restoring health and integrates well into many modalities of bodywork.”

Typically in a first session, a full consultation is taken.  Issues of personal health are discussed and information relating to a condition is taken.  A structural assessment of the pelvis, spine and limbs is then taken.  Muscle tones are looked at and range of movement assessed where necessary.  Muscles and joints are then mobilised and taken through ranges of motion to assess ease of movement.  The body is worked on bilaterally to relay a sense of balance in the movement and work.

Aftercare advice and exercises can be discussed as appropriate.  Follow up treatments are encouraged and then an evaluation of progress can be discussed at further sessions with treatment continuing periodically if maintenance is required.

Working the muscles and joints

What often happens when muscles and joints are worked in a session is that patterns or positions of bones, joints and muscle/fascial tissue start to change.  Some of the more serious imbalances that I see are prolapsed discs (slipped discs). Sometimes local nerve aggravation can cause pain within and around the back and body. Tight (hyper) and loose (hypo) muscles can be apparent locally.  This approach is great for working with even these strong difficult cases.

If the surrounding supporting tissue to a joint can be restored to a state of balance, this will encourage the innate intelligence of the body’s healing process to take over and encourage a settling with the joint and nerve pathways. Soft tissue work also encourages greater vascular and lymph flow which are key in restoring health to the surrounding areas

The Pelvis is a key foundation point of the body.

One of the keys to establishing this state of balance I refer to is looking at the pelvis as one of the main foundations of the body.  How we carry our pelvis can affect and influence the position of the hips, knees and feet.

The pelvis’s position can also influence the position of the vertebrae, head and shoulders.  Looking at addressing these imbalances in the pelvis can have a profound effect on the functioning of the rest of the body and when allowed to return to a state of balance can encourage a return to a state of health.

Working with this approach is useful for people who suffer from acute and chronic conditions of the musculoskeletal system, and for individuals who want to use it as a preventative type of bodywork to help alleviate stress that may build up in the tissue. It can also be used to help support injuries caused by direct trauma where a muscle or joint has received an injury through external factors that were not due to previous underlying conditions of the body.

Structural Rebalancing will enhance all aspects of your bodywork skills.  Your clients will get amazing results often much quicker than with other techniques. Structural Rebalancing is perfect for:

• Acute and Chronic Pain
• Conditions of the muscular-skeletal system
• For preventative bodywork to alleviate stress build-up in tissue
• Support recovery from injury caused by trauma

Course requirements

This course is designed for practitioners who have a level 3 or above qualification in Massage, Sports Massage, Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy or another field of bodywork which has required a minimum level 3 qualification.

Course Details

This is a 10-day course in ‘Diploma in Structural Rebalancing’.

Satisfactory completion of the course is based on completing case studies a practical assessment and course homework.

This course is 70% practical and 30% theory.  Places are strictly limited to 10 maximum.

You will need to bring 2 large bath towels all other equipment is provided. Wear comfortable clothes to work in and bring soft shoes/slippers or you can work in bare feet.

You should be of reasonably good health and not suffering from any current medical conditions which would hinder your ability to give and receive treatment.  Please let us know if you have any medical conditions you feel we should be aware of.

Course content

The course has a very practical focus on working from worksheets under supervision. This course is 70% practical and 30% theory.

Developing palpation skills will be a particular focus and identifying structures under your hands will be encouraged.

We will be working from the course textbook ‘The Trail Guide to the Body’

Assessment

You will need to demonstrate competence in Structural Rebalancing techniques and their delivery.  This will involve demonstrating your technique application on two clients.  On successful demonstration and completion of case studies you will be awarded a pass.

Case Studies

You will need to complete 30 treatments on the course as part of your assessment.

10 people receiving 3 treatments each.

This course is validated by Balens Insurance company, est 1950.  They are one of the largest Complementary Health Insurance Companies in the UK.

On successful completion of this course, you will be awarded a Diploma in Structural Rebalancing.  This is a stand-alone therapy based on a concept developed by Michael Gibbons, therefore not needing to follow typical QCF qualifications and professional massage body accreditations.   This is a pioneering new approach to bodywork.  If you are a professional massage therapist and member of a massage association, they will accredit this course for CPD points.

Regarding gaining insurance you have 2 choices:

1. Register with Balens Insurance company at www.balens.co.uk.  Balens validate and recognise this is a stand-alone Diploma in Structural Rebalancing.  They offer full insurance to all graduates of this course.
2. Many practitioners will be able to incorporate this Diploma in Structural Rebalancing into their existing insurance policy.

On our website, we have a Register of Structural Rebalancing Practitioners which you will be added to upon successful completion of this course.

Fridays from October 2024

October 25th

November 8th, 22nd, 29th

December 6th

2025: January 10th, 24th

February 7th, 28th

March 7th

This course is at our beautiful Sussex venue.  Located in Albourne, West Sussex, just 15 minutes from Brighton and 20 minutes from Crawley and Gatwick.  There is ample free parking.

The setting is in a wooden cabin, heated with a wood-burning stove with stunning views over rolling Sussex countryside.

“I have trained with Michael a few times in the last 7 years and I keep coming back because he is one of the most knowledgeable and trusted people I know in this industry. His teaching style is relaxed yet informative and can really adapt to everyone’s needs. The Structural Rebalancing course has been brilliant for me and having just started my case studies, I’m already getting some excellent results – one case of plantar fasciitis pain gone and another chronic shoulder and arm pain case where after the second treatment, she woke up for the first time in many years with no arm pain. The results speak for themselves.”  Munira Rasul

“Day one of the Structural Rebalancing Diploma ….  After a year & a half of intense training and real self discovery with the Yogic path – I had nearly accepted that my left hip structure would either take a very slow journey back to being level or be stuck in some kind of left internal rotation / right lower limb side external rotation battle for the rest of this lifetime !! Today – after one deep tissue / muscle manipulation / bodywork session I am now able to do Vrksasana (Tree Pose) on the less dominant side. In layman’s terms – my sacro-iliac area is properly balancing out.  The effectiveness of this kind of work is miraculous – am one happy lady.  And the most exciting thing is – am learning these techniques to treat folks with !!  It’s not just physical as we energy workers know – so it’s a deep shift too.  Unlocking karma ?  Thank you Michael Gibbons – über amazed & so chuffed to be a part of your first SR Diploma. Learning from a true master pro” Emma Chipperfield

“Michael has gently led us through a first day which could have been uncertain for some of us. By the end of it we were giving and receiving treatment that was already achieving visible results.  Great Stuff!” Roy Clay

“For the past few years, I have been looking for a course to compliment my practice in providing Therapeutic massage. Most massage courses focus on certain areas of the body or one particular therapy. I wasn’t looking to change the type of treatment I provide but to complement it.  This course encourages Practitioners to look at the client more holistically when providing a treatment. It also highlights that prevention is always better than cure so we should be encouraging regular treatments to our clients to avoid problem areas. I have no doubt this will broaden my knowledge so I can provide further treatment and suggest things they can do to help themselves to avoid or manage chronic or acute problem areas.  Two weeks in and the course is just what I was looking for. It is very informative but also fairly relaxed. It is interactive, mostly practical with suggested reading to do at home. This course highlights exactly why I love providing Bodywork.  Thank you Michael for being so passionate about your art”  Ida Dowthwaite

“Michael has an ideal teaching method which ensures all students get abundant one on one teacher time within the group setting. Notes are provided in person and links with further information is sent by email every session. All the teachers we met during the course were highly trained professionals, currently active in their fields and were able to pass on a wealth of knowledge to us. As a Muslim female who observes the practice of modesty, I felt included, supported and respected all the way through this course. I was highly fortunate to have an incredible teacher and wonderful classmates who valued my morals and ensured that wasn’t a barrier to my learning. I am eternally grateful to the College of Classical Massage for enabling a once in a lifetime experience. Completing my course at The College of Classical Massage has not only enabled me to be qualified on paper but has given me immense confidence in my knowledge, skills and capabilities before even completing the course. The content and pace of delivery have been phenomenal. Despite three days of absorbing an immense amount of knowledge, it hasn’t been overwhelming as our teacher has been intuitive to our needs and constantly checked in with all of us. The entire team at the college have been brilliant with communication from admin to accounts. It has been worth every single penny spent especially to be learning in relaxed idyllic surrounding. The venue in itself is extremely therapeutic, almost like a retreat weekend away but you come away mind brilliantly blown with how much you’ve learnt. If you are thinking of signing up, please just do it, you most definitely will not regret it.” Fahiza

Testimonials from Clients receiving Structural Rebalancing Treatments:

“Michael Gibbons has treated me over the last five years or so. As a keen runner, adventure racer, boxer and sea swimmer, the maintenance Michael provides to my body is vital to my happiness and well being. He has helped me overcome issues with my lower back, knees, ankle and shoulder over that time, and his gentle manner and intuitive nature always put me at ease and gives me confidence in my recovery. Michael uses a variety of gentle techniques involving movement & massage which help with both skeletal and muscular issues, and he looks at any issues you have within the context of your whole body, and doesn’t just focus on the specific issue. I always leave Michael’s clinic feeling better & would recommend him to anyone.”  Tanya Taylor

“The clue is in the description… A treatment from Michael is one of life’s treats. He is a marvel. Both me and my wife, as well as a number of friends, jealously regard anyone who has an imminent appointment. You arrive, creased by life, and 45 minutes later emerge, invigorated, rejuvenated, standing tall ready for anything. I always come away feeling a new power in my bosom, energised, wondering how on earth I was coping before such a release, and vowing I mustn’t leave it as long till the next appointment.”  Ned Hawes

“Michael’s considered, sympathetic treatment and advice have been a revelation – the difference he made in a relatively short space of time, after only a handful of appointments, was vast, offering a huge boost to my quality of life in the process. I would gladly recommend him to anyone.”  Russ Mould

“I have been seeing Michael since 2002. He immediately identified a hip problem, which was causing me pain when running and correctly and quickly treated it through massage and light manipulation. A key aspect of the successful treatment, was that he did not ‘consign’ me to lots of expensive follow up treatments. I’ve continued to run and cycle competitively at a local club level and go back to Michael for treatments only when I feel the need to. He is professional and flexible with appointment times, which is a great help as I travel to London for work and have kids. Being tall and skinny and getting old (!), I pick up a number of different niggles and strains and Michael has always adapted treatments and massage techniques to respond to my various injuries.”  Paul, Hove, keen runner/cyclist.

“I’ve known Michael for some years now and he has always managed to put my body right and taken the pain away! Very professional in a warm and kind manner. Thanks for saving my body and sanity again!!” Ghislaine

“The best muscle work, by a real master:  So I have suffered with a bad back and incorrect hip alignment for over 12 years now.  I get very tight muscles and need regular treatment to ease the tension in these areas.  I traditionally seek a male sports massage as I like the massage to be a real work out.  After a recommendation from a work colleague I booked in with Michael for an introductory session.  I went with an open mind as I was told he style is unlike anyone else in this field.  I can honestly say, you know when you meet someone who is a real master at their art, someone who is at the top of their game.  The treatment was amazing, subtle movements to feel the resistance in the motion, that identify the real problem areas.  This kind of knowledge of the body and sensitivity of touch only comes from many years of practice.  My body was then put through movement and combined pressure, which resulted in a deeper more targeted treatment, right to the core of the issue.  After my first 1 hour session, the extra mobility and release of tension was noticeable and I felt like my structure had been reset.  I now see Michael on a regular basis and I am happy to say the work is holding up between sessions, giving me greater comfort and flexibility.  Thanks Michael for the amazing work you have done for me and look forward to future treatments and improved body alignment.”  Steve Francis

“I have been visiting Michael Gibbons for the past 6+ years for regular therapeutic adjustments.  I have long suffered from lower back pain and can honestly say that I don’t feel any discomfort since I started regular treatments with Michael.  I continue to have regular appointments despite no longer feeling any discomfort to maintain a consistent level of mobility and comfort.  I don’t feel any “older” than I did ten years ago… and that’s a good thing!   If you are feeling any discomfort I heartily recommend Michael Gibbons practice.”  Susan Sutch

“I have been going to Michael for years for treatments, as a body worker myself, I need to maintain my health and well being. Michael has treated me for various muscular complaints and issues always resulting in a very positive and excellent outcome.”  Jo Kellett

“I’ve always found the treatments from Michael to be really effective and have rarely had to visit Michael more than a few times to resolve any issue with my back.  Michael’s combination of massage and structural realignment techniques has delivered relief from back pain and helped me recover from injury on more than one occasion.”  Daniel Finch

“I wanted to say thank you very much for the treatment I have received from you.  Not only is my back so much better from my treatment itself, the two minute exercises you recommended, which I do fail without fail, keep my back strong and without further problems. So, thank you very much for helping me.”  Clare Fathi

“I first met Michael when I was crippled with back pain after slipping over on some ice.  After 2 treatments I was ‘fixed’ and since then i have been his evangelist.  Over the years he has helped me recover post knee surgery and whenever I have had other niggles!  Michael only ever suggests the treatments that are needed and gives realistic prognosis of recovery.  My only worry about endorsing Michael is that if too many people discover how good he is – he would be too busy to treat me in the future …”  Anne-Marie Williams

“I first started receiving structural rebalancing about 7 years ago as a way of maintaining my body. I had a back problem over ten years ago and tried a variety of treatments to help the problem they all helped in their own way and slowly with a change in lifestyle my back did improved. Although my back was much improved I still had periods when it became aggravated and painful. It was about this time that I met Michael Gibbons and started to receive Structural Rebalancing.  Structural Rebalancing has been really useful as a maintenance program for my back and also as a way to keep any aches pains and muscular problems at bay. I rarely get any problems with my back nowadays. My body responds really well to Structural Rebalancing and I now receive a session every couple of months just to keep my body in good shape and keep any imbalances and muscular problems at bay.  As a practitioner of massage and structural integration I use Structural rebalancing to keep my body in check. Michael has since taught me some of the techniques of Structural Rebalancing which I now integrate into my practice with great results.”  Andrew Chick, Portslade

What is included in the Structural Rebalancing course fees?

• All hands-on tuition at the College of Classical Massage
• All relevant tuition in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology
• All course materials
• A complimentary College of Classical Massage Polo Shirt
• Complimentary refreshments throughout the day

There is an option to pay via 3 equal monthly instalments.  Please ask us for more details.  There is a £50 administrative charge for this service.
If you would like to book a place on this course please complete or download a booking form.

You will need to purchase the course textbook – “The Trail Guide to the Body” by Andrew Biel and Robin Dorn.

Payment:

Payment can be made by bank transfer, cash or PayPal.*

To pay by bank transfer, the details are:

Account number: 40714701.  Sort code: 09 06 66.  Bank: Santander  Account name: College of Classical Massage Ltd.  Please reference the payment with your surname and send us an email to let us know you have made the payment.  We will then send your receipt and course information.

To pay by cash, please contact us to arrange a convenient time.

Pay by PayPal:

*Paypal:  please note if paying your course fees (excluding registration fee) by paypal there is a 3.5% surcharge.

If you have any payment queries, please contact us.

Diploma in Structural Rebalancing – Student Contract 2024

Aims of the College

To provide a friendly and secure environment where students can learn the art of Structural Rebalancing techniques with the support and guidance of experienced tutors.

Session format

Classes will involve lectures, demonstrations and students working in pairs under close supervision.  Please arrive promptly.

Please wear comfortable clothing and footwear to work in.

We will be providing you with a complimentary College polo shirt once the course starts.

All jewellery is to be removed during treatment sessions, and long nails should be cut short.

Course information

Absences – Students will be allowed to miss a maximum of two days of course time.  Students will have to make efforts to catch up on any areas they have missed.  If you require extra tuition, this will be available at £50 per hour.

Students who are unable to complete the course due to illness, or any other circumstances, may, on the production of a doctor’s certificate, transfer onto the next available course   – however, this will be at the discretion of the college and a supplementary fee may be applicable.

Please note, that if you choose to defer your place and a course is no longer taught at the College, you will not be eligible for any refund, and the college holds no responsibility for any financial losses.

All coursework and case studies will have to be completed before the final assessment.

College Conditions

All students should treat each other with due care and respect.  A member of staff will deal with any abusive, threatening or derogatory behaviour.  If the matter cannot be resolved, the student will be asked to leave the course.  In this circumstance, no refund will be available.

Students should respect all property and equipment.  Students found causing damage to property or equipment through negligence or intent, will be liable to costs.

Course fees

The registration fee is non-refundable.  No refunds will be given on course fees from six weeks before the course commences.  Payments of fees should be made in full on the dates specified by the college on its website or given in writing.  Failure to do so will result in the student being removed from the course and action taken to recover the outstanding amount.

Assessment

This course is assessed by case studies and through ongoing assessment during contact hours with a classroom assessment on the final day of the course.

Appeals and Complaints

Should you wish to address an appeal or complaint to the college, please do so as soon as possible, and in the first instance to the course tutor.  Alternatively, please do so in writing/email.  We will try to respond to your request as quickly as we can within normal office hours.

Equal Opportunities

The College of Classical Massage is an equal-opportunity employer and education provider. We are committed to ensuring equal opportunities, fairness of treatment, dignity, work-life balance and the elimination of all forms of discrimination in the workplace for all staff and students. The College aims to create a working environment in which all individuals are able to make the best use of their skills, free from discrimination or harassment, and in which all decisions are based on merit. We have adopted this policy as a means of helping to achieve these aims.

By booking on to this course and sending your registration fee you agree to abide by our terms and conditions in this contract.

Please view our cancellation policy before booking your course.