What is Ayurvedic Yoga Massage?

The original method of Ayurvedic Yoga Massage (AYM) was developed in the early 1980s by Master Kusum Modak, from Pune, India. Kusum practiced Yoga with BKS Iyengar for many years, and also studied Ayurvedic massage with a well respected master. She combined what she had learnt in her Yoga practice (Iyengar Yoga is known for being a more therapeutic and adaptable form of Yoga) and her massage practice to develop what we know today as Ayurvedic Yoga Massage.

It combines deep tissue massage, assisted stretching, mobilisations, tractions and breathwork. This powerful combination allows the client to relax fully, and leaves them feeling centred, relaxed, happier and less worried. It is given on a mattress on the floor, which allows us massage using the feet and gives more space for movement.

We also use massage oil combined with calamus powder, the powdered root of an Ayurvedic medicinal plant that helps stimulate the skin and the blood circulation, and gives more grip to our massage. The extra friction from the powder means that we can work deeper with the massage without applying a stronger pressure.

It is a remedial form of massage, in that it targets particular areas of the body that are causing problems for the client, but we also work with the whole of the body as everything is connected and interrelated. Before each session the client is given a form to fill in so that the therapist can work out what is going to be the best approach and also a consultation is provided at the start of the appointment, so we can adjust the treatment to the needs of the client on the day.