Holistic Massage Diploma

The Unity Holistic Massage Diploma is a highly regarded professional certificate with the best governing body in holistic massage, Massage Training Institute (MTI). The next course will start in September 2026.

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The Unity Holistic Massage Diploma is a highly regarded professional certificate with the best governing body in holistic massage, Massage Training Institute (MTI). Students enjoy a thorough, intensive and enlightening training that prepares and guides them in becoming an excellent holistic massage practitioner.

Successful graduates of the Unity Holistic Massage training may have the opportunity to join our team of therapists at Unity Centre Lewes where both individual and multi-bed clinics are offered.

About the course

A nine-month practical and theoretical journey through oil massage. Taught since 2002 by Sevanti, Unity Founder and Managing Director with small groups (of maximum 12). Students will explore a range of techniques from various bodywork modalities, Thai, Acupressure Massage styles, Pulsing and Sacred energy work, and Crystal Healing with a focus on Holistic Oil Massage. Yoga, natural movement, ritual and ceremonial techniques, and meditation will be included.

The well-being and self-development of the students as Practitioners are prioritised. This is an opportunity to dive deep into one’s self-awareness and meditative practice to support becoming an exceptional Holistic Massage Practitioner. Employment status and a focus on inclusivity are covered, with practitioners able to work compassionately with a diverse range of people and needs.

Including 40 hours of practice outside the course, plus in-class practices and clinic practices with the public. This diploma is accredited by the highly respected MTI.

Click here to view Sevanti’s welcome video.

The next Unity Holistic Massage Diploma will start in September 2026, see below to view the prospectus from 2023/24 as a guide.

View 2023/24 Prospectus

“From the moment I stepped into the studio, I knew I was in the presence of a brilliant teacher. Sevanti’s teaching style was engaging, nurturing, and filled with compassion. She created an instantly warm and supportive environment that allowed for group and personal exploration. Her explanations were clear and concise, making complex concepts accessible, regardless of prior knowledge. I left the course feeling inspired, empowered, and equipped with valuable tools to navigate my own energy and support the well-being of others.” Patrick, 2023

The Diploma

  • A nine-month diploma, with over 200 hours of contact tuition time, recognised by MTI.
  • Monthly long 2-3 day sessions at The Unity Centre in Lewes with 21 days in total.
  • 9am-6pm over Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Course created and taught by Sevanti, assisted by Ali Walters, plus extra visiting tutors.
  • 50/50 Practical & Theoretical study including clinic practices.
  • Set coursework includes written assignments, a journal, Anatomy homework, receiving at least 10 treatments with written feedback, and giving at least 40 hours with written feedback; plus practical exam, anatomy exam and written paper set as homework.
  • The tuition of an extensive range of Swedish Massage techniques, plus workshops in Thai Massage, Acupressure head, neck & shoulder Massage, Aromatherapy, Pulsing, Reflexology, Energy work & Relaxation, Intuitive Massage, Crystal Healing & Ritual and Ceremonial techniques, Deep Tissue Massage and more.
  • Regular Yoga practice is included, plus workshops in meditational Movement & Dance, Tai Chi and regular seated meditation.
  • Group sharing & co-listening.
  • Specific sessions on Massage for the whole Community including inclusivity & diversity, pregnancy, children, the Elderly and those less able bodied), business & marketing and running your own business.
  • Specific Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology by professor in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning at Hertfordshire University and previous Chairman of MTI, Earle Abrahamson (6-day course).
  • Small groups; a maximum of 10 students to allow a supportive family-like atmosphere.
  • Supportive Teachers.
  • Beautiful, homely space to learn in.
  • A fun, awakening and inspiring personal journey.

“I found this diploma course to be excellent. The facilitator was both highly professional and gifted at imparting the knowledge in the best ways for us to learn as students as also was understanding, supportive and helpful when I came to experience challenges. I was particularly grateful for the support with the course in my own recovery from trauma.” – Shanti

“The course quality, detail and thoroughness surpassed my expectations. Sevanti’s approach, delivery and knowledge was outstanding. I have learnt enormously, and feel very confident with the skills and techniques I have been taught.” – Nicola

Prerequisites

  • ​A telephone or face to face interview prior to acceptance to the course.
  • Students must read the the full terms and conditions and student learning contract. These are in the prospectus, which you can download from this page. We require signed contracts to show that you understand and agree with the terms and conditions, including that if the student chooses to not continue the course the full course fees must still be paid and no monies are refundable.

Plus

  • ​Ongoing support with admin and payment organisation.
  • Access to information and support through MTI, plus the inclusion on the MTI database of Practitioners.
  • ​A discount on student insurance.
  • Information regarding bursaries and grants for those on a low income. Please contact Lu at school@being-in-unity.com
  • ​Teaching manuals downloadable on Dropbox.
  • ​A one-day Emergency First Aid at Work course, accredited by ITC and valid for three years. A valid first aid certificate is required, this is an additional £100.
  • ​Reiki courses are available to supplement the training.
  • ​The opportunity to be a part of a multi-bed clinic or offer treatments at Unity with marketing support after the course.

To consider

  • ​As a student, you will be experiencing a powerful group journey together. We honour the holistic principles to create harmony and flow within the group.
  • ​Our values underpin the flavour of the atmosphere that we create at Unity. Please read through these on our Unity Core Values section and feel if this is in harmony with what you are looking for.
  • In addition to the internal and external assessment, the student is also assessed informally throughout the course in practical application, in addition to theoretical input and general conduct. The student must demonstrate the appropriate personal qualities expected of a massage practitioner during the course in order for them to receive their certificate.
  • ​When considering the diploma please factor in time for your written assignments, journal, anatomy homework, receiving at least 10 treatments with written feedback, and giving at least 40 hours with written feedback; plus practical exam, anatomy exam, and written paper set as homework.
  • Students are required to arrive to classes and exams on time and hand in assessments and coursework on time. Download the prospectus for the full Ts & Cs.
  • Unity has the right to terminate the students participation on the course. Download the prospectus for the full Ts & Cs (relevant to 2023).

For full information about the terms and conditions, syllabus and all topics covered in our Holistic Massage Diploma see the 2023 prospectus below or email Lu at school@being-in-unity.com

Click here to view Sevanti’s welcome video.

Download 2023 Prospectus

“Excellent course, not only granting an individual all the skills of a Therapist, but giving them the ethics and personal development to be a wonderful Practitioner. Briliant Tutor, very inspiring.” – Caroline

“Thank you for your encouragement, and your wide vision of what makes an excellent practitioner.” – Lawrence

Previous Students

Past students have succeeded in their teaching practice, establishing themselves as reputed holistic therapists, teaching on retreats around the world, as well as running the Affordable Holistic Clinic at Unity.

The Venue

The Unity Holistic Massage Diploma (MTI) will be held at The Unity Centre in Lewes. This new centre is housed at the old Turkish Baths in Lewes. The centre is fully equipped with yoga mats, bolsters, backjacks, blocks, belts, eye pillows and blankets. There is also treatment rooms, an Infra Red sauna, floatation tank and two beautiful rooms to teach diplomas and yoga classes, plus a range of different therapies. The Unity Centre is only 5 – 10 minute walk from Lewes train station.

“Thank you for all your patience, love and teaching. You have been someone who has been able to motivate me!” – Maria

“It has been a beautiful, and complete course, and it has exceeded my expectations. I have learnt so much, and you have helped me grow.” – Cherith

Holistic Massage Diploma – the diploma is due to start in February 2026.

The dates below are for the current 2026 diploma, and will be subject to change but can be used as a reference for what to expect on the next diploma.

  • Session 1 – Thursday 5th – Saturday 7th February 2026
  • Session 2 – Thursday 12th – Saturday 14th March 2026
  • Session 3 – Friday 24th – Saturday 25th April 2026
  • Session 4 – Friday 4th – Saturday 5th June 2026
  • Session 5 – Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th July 2026
  • Session 6 – Thursday 10th – Saturday 12th September 2026
  • Session 7 – Thursday 8th – Saturday 10th October 2026
  • Session 8 –Thursday 19th – Friday 20th November 2026
  • Coursework deadline: Sunday 16th June 2024
  • Practical exams: Thursday 11th & Friday 12th July 2024

Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology dates 2026

​​Class dates TBC. These will run on weekends and the following dates are suggested:

  • A&P Session 1: Sat 28th March 2026
  • A&P Session 2: Sat 2nd May 2026
  • A&P Session 3: Sun 27th June 2026

A&P Mock Exam – Friday 17th July 2026

A&P Final Exam – TBC Friday 18th September 2026

First Aid Course 2026

  • TBC

“A thoroughly delightful learning experience. Theory and practical sessions were well planned and delivered with expertise. Attention to detail and a huge helping of compassion.” – Iain Neilson

Cost & Payment Plan

Fees are based on a sliding scale:

 

Access – £3000 (with eligibility checks)
Standard – £3500
Contributing – £4000

 

Option 1

  • We require a deposit of £1000 (non-refundable) to be paid upon enrolment to secure your place
  • Following this, the remaining balance must be paid two weeks prior to the beginning of the course

Option 2

  • Students on the Access and Standard pricing have the option to pay the full course fee in instalments (this includes an additional £125 administration fee for this option)
  • Unity requires a deposit of £1125 (non-refundable) to be paid upon enrolment to secure your place
  • This is followed by 4 monthly payments on:
    • 1st February 2026
    • 1st March 2026
    • 1st April 2026
    • 1st May 2026

First Aid is an additional £100 (required unless a valid First Aid certificate is already held).

There is a reading list provided by MTI from which the students can choose the texts which best suit their styles. This will be provided once enrolled, and students are recommended to budget at least £20 for the recommended reading.

Students are required to receive at least 10 hours of treatments themselves.

PLEASE NOTE: A minimum of 8 students are required to run this course, a full refund will be given if you book and this is not fulfilled

If the student chooses to not continue the course the full course fees must still be paid and no monies are refundable. Please download the prospectus to see the full student learning contract and terms & conditions. 

Grants & Bursaries

If you would like to learn more about the different grants and bursaries we recommend visiting the links below. Note that the Holistic Massage Diploma is Level 4.

  • Al Mizan Charitable Trust – Offers up to £500 for people to access training who would be in hardship – e.g. single mothers. Find out more
  • Turn2Us grant Search

Please contact school@being-in-unity.com if you would like to find out about the Unity Bursary or if you have any questions.

To apply for the diploma please fill in the application form. Once we have received this we will be in contact to arrange an interview.

Apply Now

Course Tutors

Sevanti

Sevanti

Holistic Massage Diploma Tutor
Ali Walters

Ali Walters

Assisting Tutor
Earle Abrahamson

Earle Abrahamson

Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology Tutor

  • Is an interview required to be accepted onto the diploma?

    Yes. This will be possible by telephone.

  • Who will conduct the interview?

    Sevanti

  • Will I need to pay a deposit?

    Yes.

  • How much will the deposit cost?

    £650

  • Can I spread the cost of the diploma?

    Yes, but the students will receive a discounted price if they pay the full fee before the start of the diploma. See our payment options or contact Rosie, the Unity School Manager, to discuss payment options.

  • Are there grants/bursaries available for the Holistic Massage Diploma?

    Please see our list of grants/bursaries that could be suitable. Please email Rosie for more info.

  • Do I need to take part in the Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology classes if I already have a certificate?

    It is mandatory for students to study the AP&P for the Holistic Massage Diploma (MTI).

  • Is accommodation included in the price?

    No.

  • Is there accommodation?

    No. Please contact us to find out more about accommodation options in Lewes.

  • Will I have to fill out a medical form for the diploma?

    Yes.

  • What if I don’t have a doctor?

    We are happy for you to give this form to a nutritionist, holistic doctor or yoga tutor that meets with you on a regular basis.

  • Is the medical form important?

    Yes, we need this to ensure that our students are physically and mentally stable in order to complete the diploma.

  • Is there coursework?

    Yes, this may build to a minimum of 8 hours per week.

  • If I can’t make every date can I reschedule?

    Yes, but this will be an extra fee as stipulated in the prospectus. Often a catch up session will be mandatory in order to thoroughly understand the course material.

  • If I miss a class due to illness or unforeseen circumstances will I need to pay to retake the class?

    Yes, in most cases. Unity will offer as much flexibility as possible, and will aim to support the student as best as we can.

  • If I fail the exam will I need to pay a fee to retake the exam?

    Yes.

  • I already have a First Aid certificate, do I still need to take the First Aid course at Unity?

    It is required that you have a valid (taken within the past 3 years) ‘First Aid in the workplace’ certificate. If you already have this and it is valid then you do not need to take the First Aid course with us.

  • If I do take the First Aid course at Unity is this is included in the total fee?

    No, this is an additional £95.

  • Is there parking near the studio and is it free?

    There is pay & display parking nearby. Please contact us for more information.

  • Do I need to bring lunch?

    Yes or you can buy food at our vegetarian/vegan cafe. You can also go to one of the shops and cafes nearby.

“This course has been fantastic. Sevanti has so much knowledge and experience in so many areas that it has been such a pleasure to be introduced to so many techniques. I feel the Meditation, Yoga and Dance really made me more conscious of taking more care of myself – in terms of massage, and life in general. MTI, you are so lucky to have such a fantastic Tutor on board!” – Theresa Reid