Ayurvedic Yoga Massage UK
UK, Netherlands, Greece, Portugal, UK, Netherlands, Greece, Portugal
(25)
UK, Netherlands, Greece, Portugal, UK, Netherlands, Greece, Portugal
(25)
Ayurvedic Yoga Massage is a deep tissue oil massage followed by assisted yoga stretches. It is adjusted to suit clients – relaxing, energizing, soothing, deep or remedial. The method was developed by Master Kusum Modak in Pune, India, after many years of studying traditional ayurvedic massage and Iyengar yoga.
Show more
25 customer reviews
Gilda Pérez Madrid
We took an hour massage session with my husband and it was one of the best massage experience we have ever had. We are definitely going to get another one soon!
Reviewed on Facebook
Kay Keenan
I would highly recommend training in AYM with Despina. I had looked at lots of bodywork courses, in the UK, and abroad, and AYM appealed to me, as it seemed to encompass varied techniques to offer a truly holistic treatment. I trained in levels 1-4 with Despina, in Portugal, intensively for two weeks. It really was a learning curve, and I was impressed by how much learning we achieved, and we were still able to have loads of fun, spend time enjoying relaxed meals, and taking in the beautiful surroundings. Ayurvedic Yoga Massage is the best method of bodywork I have come across. Receiving AYM is such a fantastic, healing experience, and Despina is a very talented therapist. I feel very lucky to have been able to train in AYM with Despina, and to be able to offer clients this exceptional treatment. I've found that, since completing the training, I've been very confident, that I can offer an effective treatment for helping people heal and feel good, to help increase their freedom of movement, and peace of mind. Despina's dedication to teaching, and helping others really is inspirational. I always look forward to giving a massage, and I look forward to furthering my training, in due course. Thank you, Despina! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Janet Mantle
I have completed level one and level two and soon it will soon be training in level three and four. AYM is fabulous to learn, to receive and to give. Despina’s knowledge and training techniques are amazing and anyone thinking of doing the course or book in for a therapy, don’t just think do it ! Remember prevention is better than cure and do what you love More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Rachel Davis
Had a fantastic yoga massage by Alison today. Thanks again
Reviewed on Facebook
Cristina Medeiros
TKS so much lovely teacher Despina Psarra, for everything you have shared. TKS for the opportunity to learn with you and have my diploma to work as a professional therapist and to give me many tools to help people to feel better. Wish you love and harmony. Wish you can flow with live finding beautiful places and people in the way. Love love love xx. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Pavlina Holicova
I did an Ayurvedic Yoga Massage For Pregnancy Training with Despina last week. What a bliss! Being a massage therapist myself I am always keen on learning more & going deeper. All that is guaranteed with @Despina Psarra! Incredible how much you can offer to a pregnant client with this beautiful method - in a seated or lying position! You can even offer this to a non-pregnant client who just need nourishment & support. Highly recommended! Thank you so much Despina! Keep up the good work! All the best. Take care & See you soon Lots of love Pavlina xxx More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Olga Ladeiscikova
I have attended AYM workshop "neck, shoulders and head". It was taught in professional way and fun at same time. I am very happy with new experience I've got.
I widened my knowledge and extended my skills in massage therapy. Already apply new techniques on my clients and they really like it!
Despina, you are lovely person. I'm glad I met you.
Thanks a lot.
More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Ali Findlay
Just completed the AYM L1 / L2 training with Despina, I loved the relaxed atmosphere and her hands-on approach to teaching. It quickly became apparent that not only was Despina an amazing massage therapist, she was also a natural teacher which allowed myself and the other students to quickly gain confidence in what we were doing. The combination of demonstration, detailed handouts and frequent massage practise sessions worked brilliantly. Whether you’re a massage therapist looking to learn AYM or just looking to add to your life skills I would highly recommend attending one of Despina’s workshops or training courses. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Hannele Behm
Love, Love, Love!!!
As a sports massage therapist and someone who is used to relatively painful, deep treatments... This is the perfect alternative!
!!
Despina is absolutely lovely, and what I got out of the course was absolutely just pure abundance. I love giving and receiving this treatment and so have all of my clients who've tried it!
More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Imran Khan
I would recommend Despina to everyone. She is a miracle worker.
I have tried so many different types of therapy nothing really worked until Despina worked her magic.
I have taken my mother and wife who have all enjoyed the benefits.
It's been almost two years having done yoga now and I can honestly say I have never felt better
More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Silvia Maquirriain
Despina is a 5 star teacher no doubt about it. She is welcoming, personable and very approachable. She is very generous too! Generous with her knowledge, her skills, her time, as well as all the yummy food she provided us with during the level 1-2 training :-) ! While she taught the class she even found time to sort out my psoas which had been making me very miserable. All in a day's work for Despina! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Adam Hazelwood
I can't recommend Despina's technique enough. Quite simply the best massage I've ever had. And if you think you've had every type of massage going, you haven't! When she walked up and down my back complaining my skinny-man-ass didn't give the same purchase as does a lady's more upholstered posterior, it will give you an idea of the kind of thing your in for. Despina's quite lovely, she rediates warmth and serenity - a truly beautiful lady. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Kelly Gill
I have just completed my Level 1 training with Despina and I loved every minute. I've learnt so much already and Despina is so knowledgeable that she shares as much as she can. I can't wait to do my Level 2 now and learn even more. Thank you for a wonderful weekend. :) More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Maria Cermaka
I'm a piano teacher and as you know, back pain is one of minuses of that profession. I had a few Ayurvedic Massages by Rita Petrova and even from the first Massage my back felt so much better. I had an amazing time having a massage with some oils, relaxing music and peaceful atmosphere. Rita has incredibly soft and sensitive hands, gentle and strong enough at the same time. She feels my body, the areas I have problems with. And another very important thing to me is that I know Rita as a very positive and kind person. I am thankful for the amazing experience I gained from her and the real help with my back problem. I can highly recommend Rita Petrova as a beautiful and professional masseur. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Laura Kay
Despina's treatments are always amazing. Her massages leave you feeling relaxed and thoroughly cared for. She listens to exactly what your body needs, giving care to warm and soften muscles, stretching and massaging tension and pain away.
I recently attended an Ayurvedic Yoga Massage workshop with Despina. It was great! We covered neck and head massage. She demonsrated the techniques very well, so it was easy to understand and remember. She is a great teacher and I look forward to learning more from her.
More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Carolina Daniel
Despina is one of the most welcoming person I know. From our first encounter last year in the Head, shoulders, neck and face workshop to the last weekend Level 3, I keep falling for her constancy and determination to passing on passionately her knowledge of this wonderful wholesome technique that is Yoga Ayurvedic Massage.
She is straightforward and delivers an excellent course, dressed in love and care! Her kindness goes beyond ordinary.
The homy environment where she offer her courses in London has a nice energy to it and makes you feel comfortable.
At the end of the course you feel encouraged and well supported.
The method itself is an opportunity for self-knowledge and an incredible tool for physical and emotional balancing.
With a slow and deep touch, it can access the denser and the subtler layers of body, mind and spirit. For those who give is a moment of mindfulness, presence and care with the other, puts us in a meditative state and commitment to well-being.
One thousands stars!
More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Sandra Batista
For quite some time I had a little inner voice telling me to experience an Ayurvedic Yoga Massage session or workshop. I believe that everything is incredibly aligned and I finally got the chance to do a back and shoulders workshop with Despina. She is an incredible and passionate teacher with the most warmth personality, a beautiful technique and attention to detail and she makes you feel confident and supported throughout the session! I totally recommend AYM and Despina's workshops - I am already booked for the next head, shoulders, neck and face workshop and looking at doing the level 1-2 in the near future! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Terry Clarke-Coyne
We have recently returned from the beautiful Greek island of Chios where we completed a two week intensive Ayurvedic Yoga Massage training course, levels 1-4, taught by the wonderful Despina Psarra.
She made the experience a truly memorable one. She is a fantastic teacher, host, cook and tour guide. The hospitality shown by her mum and dad was outstanding.
It felt like home from home. The course content is excellent and allows for plenty of practice and learning reflection. It is taught in a relaxed atmosphere and convivial setting. The island is a paradise of beaches, coves, mountains and medieval villages. Why wouldn’t you want to do this amazing course here? Terry & Annette Clarke-Coyne.
More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Lsabeth Jane
What a divine massage! I was lucky enough to have Andrea treat me on Sunday 26 February. I went along with no prior knowledge of Ayurvedic Yoga Massage at all - but a lot of Sports Massage experience. And I am happy to say it felt just as effective as a Sports Massage - Andrea was very thorough, firm and calming. I actually found myself switching off mentally - which is something I very rarely do ever! I felt like I had a complete body relax and my mind felt rested. Andrea is a very warm and kind person - and I cannot recommend her enough, book her! Thank you Andrea and Ayurvedic Massage for such a blissful experience. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Christina Bolt
I was lucky enough to attend Levels 1-4 in Greece with Despina. Not only is she a fantastic teacher, creating easy to follow content and notes but also a fantastic host.
I've rarely eaten such wonderful food, the beaches were beautiful, the villages we visited all unique and lovely and the people open and generous.
I learnt so much in those 2 weeks its almost hard to believe! Back home Despina stays in contact to help with any future learning, gives tips for setting up your business and has brought me in contact with a whole new group of wonderful people as a support network. Fantastic!
More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Egamar Eiluj
Really enjoyed the Ayurveda massage Worksop, very well explained and informative, really lovely experience
Reviewed on Facebook
Eileen Wilson
Would definitely recommend training with Despina! I attended both of her AYM
courses this weekend at Meadowlark Yoga in Edinburgh (shoulders, neck and face, and back and shoulders).
It was both very informative and enormous fun, and will also be of great benefit in my work as a yoga teacher. Despina is a fantastic teacher and I’m looking forward to joining her next year on her certificates courses to learn even more. Thank you so much! xXx
More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Moon Soon
I thoroughly enjoyed weekend of training with Despina. I learned so much and cannot wait to put all the knowledge to practice. I will surely carry on my education and attend more courses with Despina. She is a great and passionate teacher, always happy to help. Im glad to become part of the AYM community. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Naomi Schogler
I really enjoyed Despina's AYM 4 hour course this werkend at Meadowlark in Edinburgh. The focus of the course was AYM for Head, Face and Neck.
I teach yoga and had done a Swedish massage course in the past this AYM was very relevant for my work and interests.
We covered alot on Saturday and Despina is a lovely person and teacher. Very knowledgeable and authentic. Thoroughly recommend attending one of her courses or booking an AYM to experience first hand how good it feels.
More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Jar Oslava
Great experience ! Went to the Head, neck and face workshop (4 hours) and definitely would recommend it. It made me very excited to give more massages to my friends and family and learn more. I have no previous experience with learning massage technique (apart from nice looking youtube videos). I think Despina is a great teacher. The 4 hour workshop was well structured and planned, we had time to receive some theoretical knowledge, watch her demonstrate the technique, practice on each other and share our reflections and feedback at the end of the session. Very impressive planning I think! She brought a printed guide with photos and instructions for everyone - which I loved (you can take your own notes or write directly in the guide). She brought shared lunch so we had time to socialize, eat and get to know each other little bit more. I really liked her open approach to everyone`s own techniques, tastes and needs. Overall fantastic experience. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Ayurvedic Yoga Massage treatments
Ayurvedic Yoga Massage is a deep tissue oil massage followed by assisted yoga stretches. It is adjusted to suit clients – relaxing, energizing, soothing, deep or remedial. The method was developed by Master Kusum Modak in Pune, India, after many years of studying traditional ayurvedic massage and Iyengar yoga.
AYM is an amazing technique which works on many levels – physical, emotional, mental, energetic.. So each person seems to experience it differently. Here are some examples of what people have to say about their treatments to give you an idea: http://aym.london/testimonials/ and https://www.facebook.com/ayurvedicyogamassageuk/reviews/
In practical terms, treatments include working with the whole body, with emphasis on the areas that need more work. The therapist starts with an oil massage with their hands and feet, gradually warming up and softening muscle tissues, fascia and organs, facilitating breathing and improving circulation. We work with the breath, so that the nervous system can let go, and this process can be effective as well as pleasant and effortless. We use natural oils and a powder from the ground root of Acorus calamus, a wetland plant in the sweetflag family. The use of calamus creates a pleasant exfoliating feeling, but mainly it helps improve blood circulation and warm up the tissues quicker, intensifying the benefits of the massage, such as detoxing and inducing a feeling of wellbeing.
The oil massage is followed by assisted stretches, which help lengthen the tissues and can help bring a deep sense of relaxation and renewed energy. Through the stretches we also help relax tendons and ligaments, and renew the synovial fluid in joints.
Both by working with oil massage and with stretches, we work close to the client’s limits on the day, depending both on physical and psychological factors. We combine working to the limits with using the breathing to help activate the parasympathetic nervous system and release tension. Massaging or stretching tense muscles can cause pain, which can be agitating in certain situations. Mindful touch and deep, relaxed breathing, can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which not only helps release the agitation, but it helps retrain the nervous system to release quicker when agitating circumstances occur in our lives. This brings a lasting feeling of being centred, where we are less likely to feel agitated or restless, and experience increased clarity of thought.
Ultimately we are also developing body awareness, and learning to listen to our bodies more.
BOOKING
I am not currently taking on new clients unless in exceptionally circumstances, but my students are brilliant! I go to them when I need a massage and I receive stellar feedback for them. You can find a therapist near you here: https://ayurvedicyogamassageuk.org/find-a-therapist/
Ayurvedic Yoga Massage therapist training
I am passionate about helping to spread this wonderful method, so I try to be extremely flexible to accommodate students’ availability. I have taught in higher education for 6 years, and I try to use this experience to make the courses challenging, while keeping them enjoyable and accessible; and to sustain a fast but not overwhelming pace. Courses are small (maximum 8 students with previous experience, or 6 new students) and for longer courses we can arrange to spread out payment over a few months if necessary to enable students to pay as they start offering massage sessions.
The dates and locations for the courses are set around a core group of interested students, to maximise flexibility. So please contact me to discuss dates and locations that would work for you, and I will do my best to group you with other students and provide a course at a convenient time and location for you.
No previous experience is required for these courses, as we teach a set sequence of massage strokes and stretches, and indications/contra-indications for each part of the sequence. So even a complete novice can offer an effective, and safe, session by the end of the course. Naturally, if students have some knowledge of relevant anatomy/physiology/kinesiology/pathology, or if they chose to take a relevant course alongside their AYM training, then that would be extremely beneficial.
CERTIFIED THERAPIST TRAINING
The training for Certified Therapist is a very practical course, which includes 60 contact hours. Most of it is composed of demonstrations, practice and feedback, with a little theory where necessary to ensure that everyone can provide safe as well as effective sessions. The 60 contact hours are split into four levels (L1-4), of 15 hours contact time per level. Ayurvedic Yoga Massage is taught as a sequence of massage strokes and stretches. The sequence is very long, so you would not go through all of it in one session, but rather you will be taught to think critically about which parts of it would be most useful for each client. Level 1 covers massage strokes and stretches for the back of the body, level 2 is the front of the body (so L1-2 is a complete massage). Level 3 includes more stretches that help you deal with a wider range of client needs, and level 4 includes much more reflective practice (giving full massages, thinking about which parts of AYM are most appropriate for each client) and feedback, where what you have learned solidifies much more.
Those 60 hours of contact time are usually covered in 4-5 intensive weekends, or an intensive 10-14 days. At the moment I am planning Certified Therapist training courses in Leeds and Aberdeen, to be completed over a number of weekends in late February to early September, and a 2-week course on Chios, Greece in August. But I am also considering running courses in other locations. Please contact me if you would be interested to attend a course.
The price in Leeds is £700 for L1-4, organic vegan meals included (and potentially free accommodation if needed). Alternatively, it will be £200 per level if you want to complete e.g. only L1-2. If you want to continue in the future then you will be able to get discounts if you have studied previous levels with me, as of course it will be easier for both you and me.
In Aberdeen the course price is £800 for L1-4, or £250 per level.
Please contact me if you need concession prices, or if you might need to spread payments over a longer period of time.
DIPLOMA
In the future, you can get some practice and then attend another L1-4 course, either with me, or with my teacher (who will probably run some courses in the UK in the future), or with another teacher. Your second L1-4 course would then count as Ayurvedic Yoga Massage L5, which is the Diploma in AYM.
REFLECTIVE PRACTICE
Students can also keep a log of their practice, reflect on it, and discuss it with me and with other students during and after our Certified Therapist and Diploma courses. Up to 20 hours of reflective practice per 60 hours of contact time can be added on to the course hours on your CT/Diploma course certificates. This is an optional part of the course, but I highly recommend it.
INTRODUCTORY/SHORT TRAINING COURSES
Certified Therapist Training
Our Certified Therapist Training is a very practical course, which includes 60 contact hours. The 60 contact hours are split into four levels (L1-4), of 15 hours contact time per level. Ayurvedic Yoga Massage is taught as a sequence of massage strokes and stretches. The sequence is very long, so you would not go through all of it in one session, but rather you will be taught to think critically about which parts of it would be most useful for each client.
Students can also opt to participate in reflective practice: keep a log of their practice, reflect on it, and discuss it with the tutor and with other students during and after our Certified Therapist and Diploma courses. The hours of reflective practice can be added on to the course hours on your course certificates.
Certified training courses are small (maximum 10 students with previous experience, or 8 new students), to ensure that everyone can ask as many questions as they need, and get plenty of feedback on their technique. This is important if you are going to be working a lot with massage, not only for improving the massage experience for the client, but also for ensuring that your technique is safe for you in the long term.
The 60 hours of contact time are usually covered in 4-5 intensive weekends, or an intensive 10-14 days.
Course dates and prices can be found here: https://ayurvedicyogamassageuk.org/certified-therapist-training/
