The Foundation Course is a 3 weekend course, held over 3 months. It comprises:

• basic shiatsu routines in four positions: prone, supine, side and sitting;
  
• an introduction to Traditional Oriental Medicine - Yin/Yang and 5 Element theory;
  
• an introduction to meridians and their related acupressure points;
  
• Qigong, Do-In, energy awareness and development exercises; techniques to stretch, calm and tonify.
  

The Foundation Course can be taken as a complete course in its own right, giving basic techniques to relax family and friends, as well as to develop one's own energy awareness and relaxation skills. It also forms the beginning of the first year of the full Practitioner training. Students wishing to continue their studies can then keep going into Stage 2 of the three year course. A Basic Skills course is not essential prior to this level.

The Foundation Courses in Hertfordshire are held from 9.30am to 5.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays approximately once a month in Hertford.