By the end of this course, students will:

• Describe the basic organization of the body from cells to systems
• Identify the major tissue types and their characteristics
• Understand key principles of biochemistry and cell biology as they relate to massage therapy
• Define common physiological terminology
• Recognize the interconnectedness of organ systems
• Prepare for more advanced anatomy and physiology coursework with confidence and curiosity
• Master core anatomical terminology (planes, directions, tissue types, cavities)
• Understand how cells, tissues, organs, and systems build the human organism
• Recognize the relationships among structure and function across systems
• Develop observational and palpation-based awareness of anatomical landmarks
• Build confidence to move into specialized courses (musculoskeletal, systemic physiology, pathology)
• Understand cellular → tissue → organ → system organization
• Use A&P terminology correctly
• Recognize major body systems and their essential functions
• Build confidence in anatomy reading, diagram interpretation & note-taking

• New massage therapy students
• Yoga & movement educators needing A&P foundations
• Bodyworkers preparing for system-specific courses
• Students entering the 700-hour LMT program

• None — open to all levels. No prior anatomy knowledge required.

• Short multiple-choice quizzes on terminology and basic systems
• Practical palpation and landmark-identification exercises
• Participation in guided discussion and movement-based learning labs