Irene’s Myomassology Institute: The start of my Journey from Michigan to Harrogate.
- Corey
- Oct 1, 2024
- 4 min read
Hello, I’m Corey, the proud owner of Bodyworks by Corey, based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. Today, I want to share a bit about my journey and the incredible experience I had at Irene’s School of Myomassology in Southfield, Michigan.
My journey into the world of massage therapy began when I was just a small girl. My Nana was a nurse who worked on the maternity ward at the hospital in the town I grew up in. I would stay with her every weekend! She was a wonderful woman and always teaching me new and interesting things. Those weekends were filled with shopping trips, amazing food, and in the evening we would trade massage. She would show me on my body what something felt like and then I would try it on her. She was my very first teacher. She used to pull out old medical books and show me pictures of skeletons with all the bones and muscles labeled, and teach me the functions of all the organs of the body. I cherish those memories and the time that I spent with her.
I know that it was from my relationship with her that I realized my deep-seated desire to help others. I have always been fascinated by the human body’s ability to heal itself and I wanted to be a part of that process. So, after researching various schools I found Irene’s School of Myomassology, and it felt like the perfect fit.
From the moment I stepped into Irene’s, I knew I was in the right place. The welcoming atmosphere, the dedicated staff, and the comprehensive curriculum all contributed to an enriching learning experience. Irene’s is not just a school; it’s a community of like-minded individuals passionate about the art and science of massage therapy.
One of the standout aspects of Irene’s is the emphasis on hands-on learning. The school operates a student massage clinic where we had the opportunity to practice our skills on real clients under the supervision of experienced instructors. This practical experience was invaluable and gave me the confidence to start my own practice.
Irene’s curriculum is designed to provide a holistic education. We learned various massage techniques, including Swedish, deep tissue, and sports massage, but the education didn’t stop there. The school also offered classes on anatomy, physiology, and even business management, ensuring we were well-rounded therapists ready to enter the professional world.
Irene Gauthier, the visionary founder of Irene’s Myomassology Institute, was a pioneer in the field of massage therapy. Born in 1920, Irene lived through significant historical events and personal challenges, which shaped her resilient and compassionate nature. She began her formal study of massage in the 1950s, building upon techniques passed down from her father and grandmother. Irene’s dedication to holistic healing and her intuitive approach led her to develop Myomassology, a comprehensive healing art that integrates various bodywork techniques. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to her students were evident as she continued to practice, teach, and expand her knowledge well into her golden years. Irene’s legacy lives on through the thousands of massage therapists she trained and inspired
The friendships and connections I made at Irene’s are some of the most cherished aspects of my time there. The supportive environment fostered collaboration and mutual growth. Many of my classmates have gone on to do amazing things in the field of massage therapy, and we continue to support each other in our professional journeys.
One notable difference between US and European trained massage therapists is the length and structure of the training programs. At Irene’s, I completed a year-long residential course, which provided an immersive and comprehensive education. In contrast, many European programs are shorter and may not offer the same depth of hands-on experience. Additionally, the regulatory environment varies significantly. In the US, massage therapists must meet stringent licensing requirements, including a set number of training hours (625 at Irene's) and passing exams. All this is to prepare you for the state exam you must pass in order to receive your license to practice. In the US, they recently standardized the licensing requirements across the country so every state has the same requirements. In Europe, the requirements can differ widely from country to country, with some places having less rigorous standards.
Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for my time at Irene’s School of Myomassology. The education and experiences I gained there have been instrumental in shaping my career. I cannot recommend Irene’s highly enough. It’s a place where you can grow, learn, and become part of a supportive community dedicated to healing and wellness.
After graduating from Irene’s, I was excited to bring my skills and passion for massage therapy to Harrogate, when my Yorkshire born husband and I moved back from the US in 2022.
At Bodyworks by Corey, I strive to provide the same level of care and professionalism that I learned at Irene’s. My goal is to help my clients achieve their wellness goals and improve their quality of life through personalized massage therapy sessions.
Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey. If you’re in Harrogate and looking for a massage therapist, I’d love to welcome you to Bodyworks by Corey.
