Your Cart

CLOSE
Total:
0
CHECKOUT
CLOSE

Your Cart Is Empty

Back Arrow
back

Chavuttidhara™ Foundations

A foundational in-person training introducing the principles, setup, body mechanics, and practical application of Chavuttidhara™ barefoot gravity bodywork.

CLASS OVERVIEW

Chavuttidhara™ Foundations is a hands-on training designed to introduce the principles, setup, body mechanics, and practical application of the Chavuttidhara™ method. Students learn a structured full-body sequence while developing skills in pressure control, pacing, movement, safety, and treatment adaptability.

The class provides direct experience working with portable Travel Bars to support balance, leverage, and efficient movement during floor-based barefoot bodywork. Through guided demonstration and supervised practice, students build confidence applying the method safely and effectively across a variety of treatment situations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Minimum 1 year of manual therapy experience
  • Valid massage license (where applicable)
  • Current liability or malpractice insurance (where applicable)

WHAT TO BRING
  • Comfortable loose clothing
  • 2 sets of clean sheets and 2 king-size pillow cases
  • Preferred massage lotion, cream or oil and foot sanitizer
  • 2 hand towels and 2 washcloths
  • Clean indoor flip-flops or sandals
  • Notebook for notes (optional)
  • Water, snacks, or lunch

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY

One scholarship spot may be available per class for students from regions with different economic conditions (25%–40% discount). The first qualified applicant will be awarded. Contact the instructor for availability.

Reserve Your Spot
Deposit Due Today
$
316
USD
Total Tuition
$
1115
Your deposit reserves your place in this class. Deposits are non-refundable.

If a remaining balance applies, it must be paid directly to the instructor before class. Rates may vary for international locations, and instructor discounts may be available.
1
SPOTS LEFT
Date
Jul 27-30, 2026
Time
9 AM-5 PM
Venue
Barefoot hands Studio
Address
600 Williamson Street, Suite P, Madison, WI 53703
CE Credits
32
Certificate
Included
Instructor
Al Poliarco
Creator of Chavuttidhara and founder of Barefoot Hands. Al teaches barefoot bodywork internationally and is recognized as an educator, innovator, and multi-gold medalist in the profession.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Barefoot bodywork uses the practitioner’s feet to apply broad, controlled, gravity-supported pressure. Around the world, there are many barefoot bodywork styles ranging from floor-based to table-based approaches. Chavuttidhara is one of these methods.

This class is designed for licensed massage therapists, bodyworkers, and experienced manual therapy practitioners interested in barefoot bodywork and floor-based movement.

No, but at least one year of hands-on bodywork experience is recommended.

No. Chavuttidhara is primarily practiced on a floor mat or futon.

Yes. The class involves movement, balance, squatting, stepping, and controlled use of body weight while working close to the floor.

Yes. Students will both give and receive practice sessions in prone and supine positions. Communication regarding comfort, pressure, and limitations is encouraged throughout class.

Practice sessions may range from approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Face-down positioning is to be expected during portions of the class.

Yes, minimal to moderate lubricant may be used depending on the technique. Some practices require smooth glide, while others use little or none.

Because these techniques often involve larger body areas, students should be prepared for work on areas such as the back, legs, and glutes. Proper draping, consent, professionalism, and therapeutic boundaries are required at all times.

No. Completion of the class does not authorize participants to teach, certify, or represent themselves as Chavuttidhara instructors. Teaching rights, instructor status, and certification to train others are only granted through an official instructor training process and direct authorization from the program.

Chavuttidhara emphasizes floor-based barefoot flow, grounded movement, therapist longevity, and gravity-led body mechanics inspired by traditional Eastern barefoot practices.