Historical Background
Ayurvedic yoga massage is a rare and unique form of yoga-based body-work developed in Pune, India. It emerged as a development of Iyengar Yoga, a branch of yoga familiar to the west with its emphasis on correct alignment and remedial properties. Master Kusan Modak, one of Iyengar's chief disciples, recognized and developed in particular the remedial benefits of certain stretches, developing a rehabilitation technique that combines elements of massage, yoga stretches and deep breath-work.
BKS Iyengar had already introduced to yoga practice the possibility of finding the alignment through the use of props. A strap, block, chair or wall can be used with discernment to support the body, allowing the opening of the inner body, promoting the correct flow and release of energy. Fundamental to this approach is the art of relaxation – "Yoga is relaxation in motion" says Iyengar. Not merely gymnastics, yoga asanas evolved over centuries to promote health, reduce fatigue and keep the body free from disease.
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Relaxation and Energizing
In regular exercise the oxygen of the breath is immediately combusted. In the breath-work of Ayurvedic Yoga Massage, however, with the body passive and resting, a powerful redistribution of oxygen and pranic energy takes place. The effect is similar to the charging up of a battery; internal energy reserves are replenished, allowing for greater quality in sleep / rest as well as improved vitality levels and concentration. Relaxed and yet energized at the same time; a perfect antidote to the stresses of modern living that can leave us with chronic tension, depleted vitality and mental 'fuzz'. In Ayurvedic Yoga Massage the body is considered to be a reflection or storehouse of the subconscious. Often tensions or problems in the body have their origin in emotional seeds. Therapist and client work together fully to awaken the entire body, until each unfulfilled area of tissue and nerve, brain and lung is sensitized and cleansed by the power of the breath / stretch / massage combination. Obviously consecutive sessions realize this goal more fully, but even one session can provide a profound emotional release. Especially in times of unusual circumstance, of loss or grief, any physical or touch therapy can be of especial benefit. Ayurvedic Yoga Massage has the capacity to work on this holistic level, where body, breath and mind are considered one; the distinctions between each are blurred as the work moves to an energetic level.