Why In-Person Teaching Still Matters for Holistic Therapies

There’s no denying the convenience of online learning. In the wake of the pandemic, the wellness industry adapted quickly, offering digital qualifications, Zoom trainings, and virtual certifications in holistic therapies from aromatherapy to massage. And while online training certainly has its place in today’s world—it will never replace in-person teaching when it comes to holistic therapies.

In fact, I believe we’re now seeing a quiet revolution: a return to touch, connection, and energetic presence. A return to real classrooms, real clients, and real experience. A remembering that healing can’t be downloaded.

Here’s why I still champion in-person learning—and why it’s essential for complementary and holistic therapists who want to truly embody their craft.

1. Touch-Based Therapies Require Touch to Be Taught – In-Person Is A Must

Lymphatic Drainage. Reflexology. Swedish Massage. Hot Stones. Reiki. All of these require the ability to connect with a real human body. Not just to demonstrate—but to feel what’s happening beneath the skin.

These nuances can’t be picked up through a screen. They require hands-on experience, real-time feedback, and a present, attentive tutor to guide you through the process. No online course can teach you informed touch. You can memorise a routine, but you won’t understand it until you feel it.

2. Energy Work Is an Embodied Experience

As a Reiki Master and energy healer, I often teach students how to become aware of subtle energies—through intention, breathwork, and sacred presence. But these teachings go beyond technique. They are transmitted through frequency and experience.

In-person teaching creates a container where this energy is held safely and intentionally. It allows students to witness what it means to be a grounded, embodied, intuitive practitioner—not just intellectually, but energetically.

3. Students Learn Faster (and Better) in-person in a Classroom Setting

There’s a reason practical training works best in a group. In-person sessions allow you to:

• Watch your tutor demonstrate each movement clearly
• Ask real-time questions and get instant feedback
• Practice on a variety of body shapes, sizes, and postures
• Receive peer feedback and support
• Build confidence in a supportive, energised atmosphere

None of that happens when you’re watching a YouTube video in your living room.

4. Holistic Therapies Deserve Professional Standards

Post-COVID, many training organisations rushed to meet the demand for digital learning. But as someone who’s been in this industry for over 20 years, I can tell you: not all certifications are created equal.

At Lisa J Healing, and when I teach with Lead Academy and other professional organisations, we raise the standard. We train therapists to feel, to listen, and to heal with integrity.

If we want to continue building public trust in complementary therapies, we need to ensure new therapists are not just qualified—but competent.

5. Cameras Can’t Replace Intuition

Let’s talk about one of the biggest myths in modern training:

“You can learn everything you need from a pre-recorded course.”

No. You can’t.

There’s a human element to healing work that simply can’t be captured in video. When I teach in person, I see my students’ shifts. I notice when someone hesitates, when they’re unsure, when their hands aren’t grounded. That kind of mentorship can’t be emailed. And honestly? It’s what transforms a “massage technician” into a healer.

6. In-Person Learning Creates Community and Confidence

Therapists need support. Whether you’re newly qualified or returning to training after time away, stepping into a healing role is powerful—and vulnerable. The beauty of in-person training is the community it builds.

You share insights. You cheer each other on. You watch each other grow. These trainings often become the first time someone feels truly seen—not just as a learner, but as a healer in the making.

Final Thoughts from Lisa

When I stepped into my teaching role with Lead Academy, it was a full-circle moment. I wanted to be part of the post-pandemic teaching revolution—and I am.

Yes, online learning has a place. For theory, anatomy, and pre-course prep—it’s helpful. But for anything that involves touch, energy, presence, or healing—you need to learn in person.

It’s not old-fashioned. It’s professional, practical, and powerful.https://lisajhealing.co.uk/shop/courses/thinktree-accredited-level-3-diploma-holistic-massage/

Thinking of Training with Me?

If you’re a spiritually curious woman, a therapist ready to deepen your skills, or someone who knows that touch and energy are sacred tools for healing—then you’re in the right place.

Join one of my in-person trainings in Milton Keynes or with Lead Academy in Birmingham, or message me for bespoke CPD, mentoring, or guidance on starting your healing journey.

• ThinkTree Accredited Level 3 Holistic Massage Diploma
• Level 3 Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology (ThinkTree Hub)

Together, we raise the standard. Together, we heal.

By Lisa J Healing | Holistic Therapy Trainer & Energy Healer, Milton Keynes