Ayurvedic Yoga Massage (AYM)

Ayurvedic Yoga Massage Cobra Stretch

Cobra Stretch – Chest Opening / Photo by: Karolina Piech

WHAT IS AN AYURVEDIC YOGA MASSAGE?

Ayurvedic Yoga Massage is a combination of deep tissue massage, assisted yogic stretches and energy work. This is not an Ayurvedic massage though! It uses principles of Ayurveda, but the technique differs from a classical Ayurvedic massages.

AYM helps to locate and remove particular problem or problems related to the muscles, joints and ligaments, at the same time improving blood circulation and initiating detoxification of the entire organism. One other important benefit is opening up of the shoulders and chest region, creating a feeling of space in the body.
The stimulation is strong but the effects of an AYM are deeply relaxing and rejuvenating.

Kat incorporates energy work (in line with the art of Pranic Healing) in her sessions, balancing the energy flow, along with the stimulation and alignment of the physical body.

ORIGINS

Ayurvedic Yoga Massage (AYM) is a relatively new technique in the field of kusum modakmassage therapy. Developed in the early 1980s in Pune, India, by Master Kusum Modak, this wonderful method spread quickly all over the globe. Although not as well known as the traditional Ayurvedic Massage, it is possible today to find a massage therapists following this amazing art in almost every country in the world.

Master Kusum studied the art of a therapeutic Ayurvedic Massage and was, at the same time, a disciple of B. K. S. Iyengar. She realised the wonderful healing powers that both, the deep tissue massage and the Yogic stretches possessed. Wanting to share it with people who desired to get better or maintain their physical fitness, and perhaps had no time for a regular Ayurvedic therapy or Yoga routine, she combined the two styles. The result is a mind-blowing, healing, rejuvenating and relaxing massage that will bring you benefits far greater than ever expected from a massage.

TECHNIQUE

Ayurvedic Yoga Massage session lasts  60, 75 or 90 minutes. It is performed on a mattress on the floor, allowing for the full range of stretching. Certain props, such as blankets and cushions, are available to make it comfortable even for a person not used to staying in a prone position.

During the treatment, elements of the deep tissue massage (with a use of Ayurvedic aromatic oils) alternate with various assisted Yogic stretches and breath-work. The effect is a gradual “opening” of the entire body, dissolving of tensions, release of mental or physical blockages, and increase of the flexibility and realignment of the body. Incorporation of deep breathing techniques, stimulates the prana, or vital energy, flow and helps the receiver to go deeper into the assisted Yoga poses.

One more unique thing about Ayurvedic Yoga Massage is the use of a Calamus root powder (Sweet Flag) in combination with Ayurvedic oils. The powder helps to release toxins into the blood stream in order to get them expelled, thus supporting deep detoxification of the entire body. In addition to that, it improves circulation and has exfoliating effects for the skin.

Mindful touch and deep, relaxed breathing allow the nervous system to relax and let go. This helps to re-educate the system and brings long lasting effects of feeling centred, less likely to get agitated or restless, and experience clarity of thoughts.

The massage is delivered with the use of both hands and feet.

 

Ayurverdic Massage vs Ayurvedic Yoga Massage

Ayurvedic Yoga Massage - The Shell

Ayurvedic Massage is a key tool in the Ayurvedic therapy, a very important method helping to restore and maintain health and vitality. Developed in ancient India, the art and science of Ayurveda was designed to work on many levels of human structure simultaneously. What we call a “holistic medicine” today, to our ancestors was a most natural approach – in order to heal, one must work on the physical, emotional and mental plains.

And this is exactly the idea behind an Ayurvedic Massage: removal of the toxins that gather in physical organs and tissues, as well as the mental and emotional purification.


 

Similarities between Ayurvedic Massage and Ayurvedic Yoga Massage:

  • deep detoxification
  • reducing muscle tension and pain
  • stimulating blood circulation and strengthening the lymphatic system
  • stress relief
  • improved functioning of the digestive organs
  • prevention of aging and nourishing the skin
  • balancing the three doshas (vata-pitta-kapha)
  • use of therapeutic herbal oils

Additional benefits of Ayurvedic Yoga Massage over an Ayurvedic Massage:

  • assisted Yoga stretches (correcting postural imbalances)
  • incorporation of breathing techniques
  • stimulation with the feet (deeper pressure with long strokes or compression)
  • use of Calamus root powder (facilitating detoxification, stimulating and exfoliating)
  • short resting period after the massage, resulting in a feeling of deep relaxation

 

If you have already tried an Ayurvedic Massage, the AYM will be the next step for you on the way to explore and experience your body. If you haven’t tried an Ayurvedic Massage yet, jump right into it! Let yourself be carried away on the journey of self-exploration with the Ayurvedic Yoga Massage!

BEFORE YOU BOOK

Help us deliver a better, healthier massage session designed specifically to your physical condition, by informing us about any existing ailment, both chronic and acute, even if it is minor and seemingly insignificant.

For more information, check before you book an Ayurvedic Yoga Massage.

 

Massage has many health benefits but it isn’t meant as a replacement for regular medical care. If you are under medical treatment, inform your doctor that you are trying massages and make sure you follow your standard health plan.

 

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