The School of Therapeutic Bodywork

The Yoga Massage - The Art of Meditation in Movement
 

Course Structure

The Yoga Massage is practiced on the floor. There is no need for any equipment nor for any oils and the receiver can remain lightly clothed. This makes it one of the most versatile and portable massage techniques available. Many of the techniques can be incorporated into couch based massage routines.

The Yoga Massage is taught during sixty hours of class time. In addition students are expected to practice between classes so that the massage becomes an embodied knowledge which flows spontaneously and intuitively. The course teaches a complete one and a half hour massage routine as well as variations for working with pregnancy and a short sitting routine ideal for on-site massage work.

This course is suited to experienced masseurs and bodyworkers who want to extend their repertoire as well as to complete beginners exploring massage with a view to work or simply for pleasure. The course has also proved invaluable to yoga practitioners and teachers.

Traditional Thai Massage comprises a great variety of techniques for working with the body. Many of these techniques are superfluous. Some are anatomically incorrect and can do nothing but give pain. Some are simply poor variations of a better technique. Some, including the blood stops popular in Thailand, are dangerous. In designing The Yoga Massage I have taken the safest and most functional techniques and organised them into routines suited to the Western body and lifestyle.

The Yoga Massage does not attempt to offer any system of diagnosis or cure - it is bodywork in its purest form - free from judgement - free from practitioner need. The aim of the massage is deep relaxation, trust, abandonment and relationship. It is in this state that healing can take place. The course is practical and experiential - designed to offer plenty of opportunity to give and receive the massage and to develop a real taste of inner quiet.

The course includes work on practitioner posture, breathing, rhythm, self-awareness, attention and concentration. The aim is to develop a style of massage which is as beneficial to the giver as to the receiver.

Traditional Thai Healing Massage exemplifies the four divine states of the mind described in Buddhist teachings. These are: loving kindness, compassion, vicarious joy and equanimity. The Yoga Massage is taught and practiced with the aim of embodying these states in action. For this reason the massage is often referred to as 'meditation in movement'.  

Contact:

Howard Evans

mail@howardevans.co.uk