An Introduction to Sotai Ho
The Introduction to Sotai course is held at Morley College in London. It is open to everyone, and you
don't need any previous knowledge or qualifications.
It is very useful for those who want to alleviate, reduce, eliminate or prevent any chronic or acute
musculoskeletal pains, aches or conditions such as back pain, neck stiffness, sprained ankles, pelvic
instability, any reduction in the normal mobility of the limbs or muscles, etc.
It helps increase general flexibility, and the suppleness of particular areas of the body quite quickly.
It is a very useful and interesting course for those who work within the field of massage or any other
bodywork or therapy such as yoga, tai chi or pilates, if they want to have an extra tool to help their
patients.
Contents:
Since Sotai Ho consists of passive and active techniques, students will see and learn a bit of both.
After a brief introduction to the development of the Sotai technique, and the principles of NO PAIN and
EASE OF MOVEMENT students will start with the practical training.
Structural analysis (Body analysis):
- How to read the body to find imbalance / misalignment between left and right, front and back, upper and
lower parts of the body, and between back and neck movements to one side or the other.
This part is important for therapists since it is essential to notice how the body has changed - for the
better - and it helps us show patients their improvement. It is also important for those who want to
monitor their own improvement.
- How to measure flexibility.
Because Sotai Ho increases flexibility, or range of motion, we usually show patients their improvement in
this area.
- Articular (joint) rotations and their importance.
The passive part of Sotai Ho used to improve the alignment of the body, the synchronisation of
articulations and the loosening up of contractions. Most of these rotions can be done by patients at home,
but they aren't as effective as when one is the passive recipient.
We will learn and practise toe and ankle rotations.
- Self Sotai exercises.
Probably the best known, and most useful part of Sotai Ho. These exercises can be done at home to
prevent or improve many conditions. They can also be done in a group class or in a massage room, where
the therapist directs and explains the movements, and applies resistance.
During the course, we will see how to do these exercises and their application, how to give clear
explanations, and how and where we should apply resistance.
- How to treat specific conditions with this technique.
Treatment for back pain and neck stiffness. These two treatments are always included due to the high
number of people who suffer from these conditions. If any student is experiencing either back pain or
neck stiffness, he/she will be treated in class.
Time permitting, students can request to be treated in class for conditions whose improvement can be
shown on the same day. Most of these are musculoskeletal problems.
