Harmony Hands Competition Guide Copenhagen 24

Harmony Hands

The official guide to the World Championships in Massage, Copenhagen, Denmark

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The program

Friday 28 June:

10.00 Walk/sightseeing in Copenhagen at 10am – 2pm for participants and other guests (voluntary).

Meeting at Copenhagen City hall

Contact person Danny Jensen. Whatsapp/Phone + 45 20960859

13.00 Preliminary online rounds. (Example from last year)

15.00 IM A Educational Conference

15.00 The Massage Educational level in USA vs the World by Nathan Nordstrom

16.00 The Massage Therapist of tomorrow by IM A Founder Jeppe Tengbjerg

17.00 Massage Robots in the future by Liane Dufresne & Julian Jorgensen

The International Massage Association aim to develop and promote the various massage techniques which are practiced by experienced Massage Therapists worldwide.

The World Championship in Massage is primarily a competition, but at the same time an opportunity for Massage Therapists to find professional inspiration and networking.

Saturday 29 June:

(Address: Sigurdsgade 26, DK 2200 Copenhagen N) (Example of Program Day 1) (Rooms)

08.30 Check-in (First round participants prepare their massage table / mattress / chair)

09.00 Welcome, group photo and presentation. Preparation for the 1st preliminary round

10.00 1st preliminary round (participants have to bring their own sheets and towels)

11.05 Pause/Preparation for the 2nd preliminary round

11.15 2nd preliminary round (participants have to bring their own sheets and towels)

12.20 Pause/Preparation for the 3rd preliminary round

12.35 3rd preliminary round (participants have to bring their own sheets and towels)

13.40 Lunch (included for participants and judges)

15.00 Massage demonstration from former winners and IMA Teachers Jidapha Wilkinson, Luisa Vargas, Rita Murauskiene, Ivan Mitrovic

16.00 Free Massage workshops with the above mention teachers.

18.00 Rounding of the day

19.45 Judge dinner (only for judges).

Sunday 30 June:

(Example of Program Day 2) (Rooms)

08.30 Check-in (4th round participants prepare their massage table/mattress/chair).

09.00 Welcome/last preparation for the 4th preliminary round (Speech Bojan Miric)

09.30 4th preliminary round (participants have to bring their own sheets and towels)

10.35 Pause/Preparation for the 5th preliminary round

10.50 5th preliminary round (participants have to bring their own sheets and towels)

11.55 Pause/Preparation for the 6th preliminary round

12.10 6th preliminary round (participants have to bring their own sheets and towels)

13.15 Judges evaluation/Cleaning of premises together

13.30 Lunch (included for participants and judges)

15.00 Massage demonstration from former winners and IMA Teachers.

15.30 Awards ceremony part 1 (Nation ranking, Hall of Fame, Videos)

16.00 Preparation for the individual final – Soft drinks / Lemonade and cake

17.00 The Grand Finale on Main Stage

18.00 Judges evaluation and awards ceremony part 2

21.00 Party on your own expenses at Proud Mary Pub Copenhagen

NOTE! Lectures, the preliminary rounds and the final, as well as prize giving will be recorded on TV.

By participating in the World Championship, the Massage Therapists will get the opportunity to strengthen and improve their skills. A Diploma will be issued for each participant, enabling the Massage Therapists to brand their business in a new way. Scan

Naestved, Denmark

Participation fee: 240,-

+

Note: Fee non-refundable.

New Judges for Copenhagen 2024

The IMA has selected a handful of new Judges for the 7th World Championship.

Isabelle Trombert from France

She is Spa & Wellness Expert – MASSAGE DESIGNER – Consultant – Quality Auditor – YouTube Creator – Author – Journalist. She has twice judged the New MA’s European Massage Championship in France and in Romania. She will be one of the new judges of the new category at the World Championship in Denmark: Body Shape Massage. www.facebook.com/lespritaspa

Liane Dufresne from Canada

Liane Dufresne has been a Certified and Registered Massage Therapist for more than 35 years and is the head of a multidisciplinary clinic bearing her name in Montreal, Quebec, Canada for the past 25 years. in 2024 she will be one of the Judges at the International Massage Association 7th World Championship in Massage.

She comes from a family of strong men and women, she has won the World Arm Wrestling Champion title 11 times from 1985 until her retirement from competition in 1998. In her massage practice, Liane is a firm believer that the key to success in this discipline is not to only rely on strength, but to rely as much on technique and training.

Through her journey as an athlete, she has been able to personally discover and experiment all the benefits massage therapy can bring to the body both in sports performance and in everyday life. The human body and its reactions fascinate her and allow her to excel in her profession and, above all, to carefully balance her interventions.

In 2022, she organized and served as a judge in the first edition of the LNE SPA CANADA Canadian Massage Championship. The first edition achieved an unexpected success which served as a springboard, and she repeated the experience and ensured the full organization of the 2023 event. The 2023 edition also achieved unprecedented success. In 2024, Liane will lead the Canadian and International Massage therapy Championship and Summit.

A teacher, lifelong student, and speaker, she does not hesitate to share her knowledge. She travels the continents to meet international players and pillars of the field to find the inspiration necessary to perfect her art and actively participate in the advancement of massage therapy.

Her wish: to serve as an inspiration to all those who want to embark on what she considers to be the most beautiful profession in the world, a profession of generosity, kindness, compassion and integrity. Here Liane is with IMA Founder at the Canadian Massage Championship in Montreal 2023.

Vanessa Passarella from United Kingdom

Vanessa is a very experienced Massage Therapist with a demonstrated history of working in the health and wellness and fitness industry. Skilled in Multilingual, Pregnancy Massage, Chair Massage, Aromatherapy, and Reflexology, Hot stone massage, Hot bamboo massage, Thai level1, Seiki shiatsu, and a healthcare services professional graduate from the London School of Complementary Health .

Vanessa has over 10 years’ experience working in the very demanding corporate chair massage industry in the City of London, she also competed in the Chair massage category of the National Massage Championships in London 2018 and won a very deserved 2nd place.

Vanessa says:

I’m a licensed massage therapist deeply passionate about the art of touch since my early years, I loved massage every since I have my first memories. My journey is marked by a commitment to continuous learning and a belief in the transformative power of massage. Here’s a concise breakdown of my certifications and achievements.

www.facebook.com/vanessa. passarella.5

Winner profles

Anna Tsankova

How did you arrive in the massage and bodywork industry?

I had to change my career and decided to move to London to study and pursue my hobby of wellness, skincare and make up.

Where did you first train in massage therapy?

The college was called London Esthetique, now it’s the London college of beauty and make up. It gave me a great foundation which I continued to build on.

Who was your first and favourite massage tutor?

After college I continued to develop my skills mainly through self-research and later I attended numerous trainings CPD workshops rather than having one teacher.

Where are your massage clinics/clients based?

I have my practice in Harrods Village, Barnes, in the London Borough of Richmond and I also travel internationally to teach and see clients.

What specialist area of massage and bodywork do you prefer to work with?

I specialise in advanced facial massage for a personalised face lift and sculpting incorporating work on all layers of the face by manipulating skin, muscles, fascia and lymphatic drainage. I have incorporated my CPD training and created my own techniques and methods.

Are you trained in the Western medical system or the Eastern Medical system or both?

I extensively research both and incorporate the wisdom and traditions of western and eastern methods.

Which person or training organisation inspires you in massage and bodywork?

My husband Slav Marinov.

What is your favourite way to market your practise and yourself?

The best way has aways been worth of mouth. That’s how I managed to build a loyal clientele. I have clients who have been following me for over 20 years.

In recent years the role of social media as a marketing tool has become increasingly important. Therefore, I work on my Instagram and LinkedIn accounts and soon I will be launching TikTok.

What technology is your preferred choice for marketing?

My preferred choice for marketing involves a mix of social media, email marketing, trade events and keynote speaker opportunities as well as SEO strategies, complemented by analytics tools to track and optimise the performance.

Have you written any articles or books? If so which and when?

I contribute to professional magazines and I’m planning to publish a book in future.

What motivates you to compete in massage competitions?

There are many benefits to participating in massage competitions. A desire to showcase expertise and the unique techniques I have mastered, to measure your skills against those of your peers, and to learn from the experiences and methods of other professionals in the field.

Massage competitions get you out of your comfort zone and also, serve as a platform for personal and professional growth and the research during the preparation process contributes to your skills development.

The achievements gain you worldwide recognition and could advance your career.

Additionally, such competitions are a great networking opportunity and can be a way to connect with a community of like-minded individuals, fostering new relationships and friendships around the globe.

What can you see in your future in the massage industry?

We can see a positive and transformative growth in the wellness and SPA industries post Covid.

With clients and experts focusing on holistic health and well-being the trend for incorporating wellness in many aspects of life is steadily growing. I have a 360’ approach to ageing well and incorporate a truly holistic philosophy when I design facial protocols.

In addition, we might see an increased integration of technology, such as virtual reality for relaxation and advanced massage tables, alongside a broader acceptance of massage therapy such as aromatherapy, myofascial release, and reflexology within healthcare settings, cancer patients management and mental health.

Another focus in our industry is sustainability and ethical practices, reflecting a shift towards a more conscious SPA business operation. Finally, the rise of digital platforms providing meditation, EFT, yoga and fitness classes may extend wellness services beyond traditional settings, catering to a growing demand for remote wellness solutions in our everyday lives.

What advice would you give to a newly qualified massage therapist or to someone thinking of studying massage therapy? For someone newly qualified or considering studying cosmetology or massage therapy I can advise the following:

1. Gain Experience: Seek opportunities to practice as much as possible. Offer massages to friends, family, or through volunteer work to refine your skills and build confidence.

2. Continue Learning: my motto is never stop learning! Our industry is always evolving and there is so much we can learn from new and old traditions and methods. Pursue continuing education courses, workshops, and certifications in specialised areas to enhance your skill set and stay current with industry trends.

3. Build a Network: Connect with suppliers and other cosmetologists or massage therapists and wellness communities

At tend work events and trade shows. Networking can lead to referrals, collaborative opportunities, and valuable mentorships.

4. Be Professional: develop excellent customer care and ensure your business practices reflect professionalism and ethical standards.

5. Invest in Self-care: Massage therapy can be physically demanding. Regularly practice self-care to prevent burnout.

Anna Tsankova is an internationally renowned Aesthetic Skin Expert with extensive knowledge in cosmeceutical science and skin health treatments who believes in the 360’ approach to aging well philosophy.

Anna’s work has been recognised by many industry awards and has been featured in esteemed publications such as Vogue, Tatler, Harpers Bazaar, and Professional Beauty Magazines.

Her most recent achievement includes being titled World Champion of Face Massage at the World Massage Championship in Copenhagen 2023.

Anna is a keynote speaker at international beauty and aesthetic conferences such as Professional Beauty London and Cosmoprof Bologna and has lectured beauty and aesthetic practitioners on the latest concepts and methods in cosmetic science. Anna is collaborating with and contributing to industry-leading skincare and cosmeceutical companies such as L’Oreal Group, Chanel, Guerlain, LVMH, Aqua Di Parma, John Lewis and SwissLine which have further solidified her standing in the field.

Follow Anna at: WWW. ANNA.LONDON

www.linkedin.com/in/annatsankova-5036b5170/

Jacques H Poullard

Embracing Growth: My Journey in Competitive Massage Therapy

Participating in competitive massage therapy has been a remarkable journey, brimming with creativity, excitement, and profound personal and professional development. It’s an expedition that has not only pushed me beyond my comfort zone but has also shaped me into the therapist I am today, blending Eastern and Western techniques seamlessly.

In the tranquil confines of our treatment room, our sole focus is on our clients, creating a serene ambiance where they can fully immerse themselves in the therapeutic experience with eyes closed. However, stepping into the competitive arena introduces an entirely new dynamic. Suddenly, the spotlight is on, with judges, fellow competitors, and colleagues scrutinising every move. Initially daunting, this newfound attention presents a unique opportunity for growth, fostering skill exhibition, knowledge exchange, and invaluable learning from industry peers.

My journey in competitive massage therapy commenced in January 2019 when I stumbled upon a post on LinkedIn about the World Massage Championship in Copenhagen. Without hesitation, I seized the opportunity and registered, embarking on a path that surpassed my wildest expectations.

The championship in Copenhagen was an eye-opening experience, culminating in the attainment of the gold medal in the Eastern category. Inspired by this initial win and learning, I clinching Gold/First place in the Eastern category at the UK National Massage Championship later that same year.

Building upon these achievements, I was bestowed with the honour of judging and teaching at The European Massage Championship, an experience that broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for the craft.

In 2022, fuelled by the knowledge gained from my experiences, I returned to the UK National Massage Championship with renewed determination. The hard work paid off, as I clinched another gold medal, this time in the Freestyle category.

However, not every endeavour culminated in victory. In 2023, despite falling short of a medal at the World Massage Championship,

the setback proved to be a catalyst for innovation. Inspired to document my journey on social media during the UK National Massage Championship, the gamble paid dividends, resulting in a gold medal in Freestyle.

Reflecting on the past five years, graced with five championships and four gold medals, I am profoundly grateful for the journey. Despite the doubts and challenges encountered along the way, the experience has been invaluable, refining me into the therapist I am today.

Looking ahead, I am brimming with anticipation for further growth and evolution in my practice. While competitions have constituted a significant facet of my journey, I am eager to explore fresh avenues for learning and development.

As the journey continues, I am indebted for the opportunity to impart my passion and

knowledge, contributing to the flourishing of this vibrant community.

My background includes qualifications from the London School of Sports Massage, Advanced Thai Yoga Massage from Chiang Mai, Thailand, and Sports Science & Nutrition from the UEL.

Reflecting on my journey in the world of massage competition from both a competitor and judge’s viewpoint, I believe that success in a championship experience hinges on meticulous preparation, understanding of judging criteria, rules, and the demonstrative aspect of competition. Stepping out of one’s comfort zone, maintaining creativity, and ensuring effectiveness are paramount, not merely for medal aspirations but for continuous growth as a therapist.

Instagram: @humpichpoullard

Winner profles

Slav Marinov

How did you arrive in the massage and bodywork industry?

My journey in the field of massage began during my studies at the National Sports Academy in Sofia, where massage was an integral part of the curriculum. Following my graduation, I spent a decade working as a Personal Trainer and offering massages for my clients. In 2003, I embarked on a new chapter by relocating to London to further my education in massage and body manipulation. This transition was not without its challenges, as my diplomas from Bulgaria were not initially recognized in the UK. Undeterred, I embraced the opportunity to start afresh, immersing myself once again in the study of anatomy and physiology. It was a transformative period that laid the groundwork for the expertise I bring to my practice today.

Where did you first train in massage therapy?

Sofia, Bulgaria, National Sports Academy.

What inspired you to get into the massage industry?

I’ve always been fascinated by the human body and how it works. Initially, massage was primarily about assisting my clients in their recovery from training or injuries. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that massage therapy encompassed far more profound aspects. Through my practice, I discovered the transformative power of massage in improving not only physical well-being but also mental and emotional health. Witnessing the positive impact, it had on my clients’ lives sparked a deep sense of fulfilment and purpose within me. It was then that I fully embraced the holistic nature of massage therapy and committed myself to helping others achieve holistic wellness.

Who was your first and favourite massage tutor?

I consider myself primarily self-taught. My most respected and admired teachers are Practice and Experience. Their teaching methods are uniquely rigorous; they give you the test first and the lesson afterwards. Such lessons leave an enduring mark on one’s memory. A remarkable teacher not only imparts knowledge but also ignites inspiration within. Even if he provides technical instructions, true mastery requires

dedicated practice. Without consistent practice, the retention of knowledge diminishes rapidly.

Are you trained in the Western medical system or the Eastern Medical system or both?

I’ve long been captivated by the diverse approaches various cultures employ in both the art and science of massage. Each culture offers a distinctive perspective and interpretation of the human body’s intricacies. Rather than favouring any modality or technique, I’ve looked deeper into the underlying philosophies behind them. This comprehensive understanding has empowered me to adeptly blend various methods and modalities, leveraging their unique strengths to deliver effective and tailored treatments.

What motivates you to compete in massage competitions?

Massage competitions are more than just contests of winning or losing. They represent a journey of personal growth and self-improvement. Every participant strives to perform at their best, putting in dedicated effort in preparation. It’s this process of preparation that pushes individuals out of their comfort zones, regardless of the outcome. Whether you achieve victory or not, you emerge from the experience as a better version of yourself. Competitions also offer opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, witnessing their techniques, gaining inspiration, and possibly inspiring others in return. In this shared journey, participants not only compete but also collaborate, enriching the massage therapy community as a whole.

What can you see in your future in the massage industry?

At this point in my career, I extend my knowledge and expertise to colleagues by holding workshops, participating in international conferences and seminars, collaborating with renowned brands within the wellness and spa industry. By continuing to follow my passion, embrace new opportunities, and stay committed to excellence I hope to enhance standards in the massage community and contribute to the global advancement of massage therapy on a larger platform.

What advice would you give to a newly qualified massage therapist or to someone thinking of studying massage therapy?

On your journey as a massage therapist stay true to the fundamental pillars of massage therapy: empathy, compassion, and respect. Never stop learning and continue to grow and explore. Nurture your skills with dedication, and passion. In the pursuit of excellence, find not only success but also fulfilment in making a positive

difference in the lives of others.

Slav Marinov is award winning therapist with over 20 years’ experience in massage and body manipulation.

Highly regarded as one of the top massage therapists not only in London but internationally, he looks after the wellbeing of elite athletes and celebrities from fashion, film and music industries as well as royalties and high-profile business clients.

Over the years Slav studied and adopted many different advanced massage techniques to develop his very own unique style of massage and body adjustment that incorporates a harmonious blend of appropriate pressure, Triger Point NeuroMuscular Therapy, Active Stretching Release and Joint Mobilisation among others.

Slav’s work has been recognised internationally and notably, he holds an unparalleled array of titles in the global massage community including UK National Champion, European Champion, USA Champion, and World Champion.

The National Massage Championship UK 2021 – London

• Gold Medal in Freestyle Massage

• Overall winner of the “Judges Excellence Award”

European Massage Championship 2022

– Nice

• Gold Medal in Sports Massage

• Gold Medal in Western Freestyle Massage

• Absolute Champion of Europe and winner of the “Best Massage in Europe” Award

Intercontinental Massage Championship 2022 – Athens

• Gold Medal and Intercontinental Champion in Sports Massage

World Massage Championship 2022 –Copenhagen

• Gold Medal and World Champion in Sports Massage

American Massage Championship 2023

– Cherokee

• Gold Medal and Champion of the USA in Sports Massage

• Gold Medal and Champion of the USA in Freestyle Western Massage

Follow Slav at:

www.slavma.com

www.linkedin.com/in/slav-marinov

President profle

Jeppe started his journey into the world of massage competitions by creating the first Danish Open Massage competition in 2016 and then went on to organise the first world massage competition in Copenhagen. He is widely recognised as the Godfather of this emerging competition culture.

Where did you study?

The A.M Massage Academy in Denmark, which was a very inspiring place to study, there motto was “Learn to understand the language of the body and get an education for life”

When did you qualify as a therapist?

All the way back in 1998, a great year.

What are you qualified in? Swedish Massage, Chair Massage, Sports massage, Thai massage which as you can see I’m trained in both Eastern and Western medical systems.

What did you do before massage therapy?

I was a Danish football manager and former professional football player. I played for a number of Danish clubs, as well as Dutch clubs SC Cambuur and Excelsior Rotterdam. It was a great Life and a passion for me.

Why did you change career path?

Professional football was always my chosen path, however, I had to stop with both being a player and a coach due to age and lack of time.

How did you get into massage therapy?

My grandmother was a massage/ Reflexology therapist, and she taught me from I was 12 years old.

What are three words you would use to describe massage? Wellness, flexibility, relief of tension

How has massage changed your life?

I made a living out of my interests; first as a footballer and later as a therapist and teacher and now the World championships.

What are you doing now that you are qualified?

Now I teach all over the world and host massage championships. I have also had my own massage school since 2001 where I educate many massage teachers along with partners.

What do you love about practising?

I like that we can help people right away, so they get back to living a healthful and fulfilling life.

worldchampionship-massage.com

Jeppe Tengbjerg CEO, The International Massage Association

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