Ayurvedic Yoga Massage (Kusum Modak Method) is a dialogue of surrender and receptivity, self-knowledge and respect. Combining elements of Ayurvedic massage through Indian master Limaye with yoga postures inspired by B.K.S Iyengar, this technique was birthed and developed by Kusum Modak, who has been a long-term student of both teachers. The use of pure, organic sesame oil and calamus root powder, along with the incorporation of Iyengar inspired mobilisation creates a holistic approach that aims to re-align the body, and brings the being into a greater state of equilibrium and wellbeing.
Ayurvedic Yoga Massage
“The body opens petal by petal” - Kusum Modak
This treatment is guided through the breath, requiring us to be open and receptive to the healing that comes from allowing the body to receive. Benefits include:
Stress reduction and relaxation
Improved circulation and oxygenation
Enhanced flexibility and joint mobility
Detoxification and removal of toxins
Muscle relaxation and pain relief
Balancing energy flow and chakras
Better sleep quality and patterns
Increased mental clarity and focus
Strengthened immune system
Emotional balance and reduced anxiety
What to expect from a session
The treatment is conducted on a floor mat, facilitating the utilisation of my entire body weight to administer a profound and grounding session. Typically spanning one hour, sessions encompass comprehensive work on the back, arms, legs (front and back), abdomen, neck, shoulders, and head, ensuring a fully integrated experience for the entire body. Guided by the rhythm of the breath, this approach differs from other massage modalities, requiring recipients to be wholly present and actively engaged in the process. I use organic sesame oil infused with essential oils tailored to each client's specific needs, complemented by vacha (calamus root) powder to both warm the muscles and exfoliate the skin. Throughout the session, a combination of hands, feet, and forearms is utilised to deliver a clarifying, detoxifying and revitalising experience.
About me
Hello! I'm Yasmin. After a decade of practicing yoga, I delved into Ayurvedic Yoga Massage (AYM) driven by its profound impact on my physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being. I love teaching yoga but wanted to give my clients more personalised and tailored sessions to deal with their complaints. I first trained with Purnima Txayá, Co-Director and Advisory Board member of the Modak Institute. I then trained under Kusum Modak in São Paulo, Brazil, becoming an affiliated therapist at the Modak Institute. Delivering this massage brings me so much joy and I love to witness the transformations of those who receive it.
Kusum Modak
Kusum is the founder of this technique. Her first 40 years were marked by health struggles, intensified by losing her father at 18. Amid societal judgments, she persevered, guided by determination, integrity, and faith. For two decades, she studied under Guruji Master Iyengar and Mr. Limaye, an Ayurvedic Massage expert. Overcoming challenges daily, inspired by Sage Saibaba of Shirdi, she lives by the simple yet powerful Sanskrit mantra: Shraddha and Saburi - faith and patience.
