Founded in 2014 (formerly Thai-Issan Massage Academy), Thai Esan Muscular Arts (T.E.M.A.) is Hawai‘i’s first and only institution certified in Advanced Thai Massage.
Our state-approved program is designed for today’s massage professionals, combining guided visual learning with instructor-led, hands-on training. Practical experience is the foundation of our approach, not an add-on.
Students learn directly from instructors, gain real client experience, and graduate with the skills to succeed in both wellness and clinical settings. Along the way, they build a broad foundation across massage traditions including Thai, Lomi Lomi, Swedish, Shiatsu, and more.
This is massage education with purpose. We prepare you to serve with skill, confidence, and clarity.
NOT JUST CERTIFIED, PREPARED.
To become a licensed massage therapist in Hawai‘i, students must complete a state-approved 570-hour program and pass the Hawai‘i state exam. Our curriculum goes beyond the minimum. It is designed not only to prepare you for the test, but to equip you for the real demands of today’s massage career.
With a balance of instructor-led hands-on practice and visual learning study, you will work with real clients, build clinical skills, and graduate with the confidence to step into your profession with clarity and purpose.
What You’ll Learn
Phase I: Foundations of Massage Therapy (50 hours)
Develop a strong understanding of the human body and the core principles of massage. Training covers anatomy, physiology, ethics, hygiene, client communication, and professional setup.
Phase II: Advanced Techniques & Client Connection (100 hours)
Strengthen your skills through instruction in body mechanics, the body-mind connection, and full-body sessions across multiple traditions such as Swedish, Lomi Lomi, Shiatsu, Hot Stone, Prenatal, Reflexology, and Advanced Thai Massage (Level I).
Phase III: Clinical Practice & Applied Techniques (420 hours)
Work directly with clients in a supervised clinical setting. Learn intake and record-keeping, participate in case feedback, and practice advanced therapeutic bodywork for measurable results.
Total Program Hours: 570
Licensure is just the beginning. With personal guidance, small class sizes, and real client experience, you will graduate ready to serve others with clarity, confidence, and professionalism.
Why Students Choose Us
In just 8–9 months, you can graduate prepared to sit for the Hawai‘i massage licensure exam and step into your new career.
We keep training personal, attainable, and practical, no unnecessary delays or hidden costs. Students choose T.E.M.A because they receive:
• Small class sizes for one-on-one attention
• Attainable payment plans, including monthly options
• A clear path to licensure and career readiness
Getting started is simple. Complete our short online application and take your first step toward becoming a licensed massage therapist.
