Frequently asked questions on Ayurvedic Yoga Massage and about the ARYM Institute programs
Do I need to have my certificate/diploma validated every two years?
No, it is not mandatory, but we highly recommend joining a refresher course at least every two years to refine techniques, maintain high-quality massage service, and learn new skills.
Is prior experience in massage required to join the ARYM training program?
No, our training program is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their prior experience in massage or yoga. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional, our courses will introduce you to the principles and techniques of Ayurvedic Yoga massage in a clear and easy-to-follow manner. Our experienced instructors will guide you through each step of the process, helping you to develop the skills and confidence needed to integrate massage and stretching effectively. By the end of the training course, you will have the ability to provide a complete Ayurvedic Yoga massage treatment and demonstrate your newfound skills with self-assurance.
Does one needs to join the module “Fundamentals of the AYM method (I)” before enrolling into the AYM Therapist Training (I-IV)?
The Fundamentals of the AYM method (I) is included into the AYM Therapist Training (I-IV) program.
For these who doesn’t have the time to commit for the whole Therapist Training (I-IV), which is taught on 8-day to 15-day (its duration depends on number of training hours per day), it is still possible to attend the Fundamentals of the AYM (I). The Fundamentals of the Ayurvedic Yoga Massage method is the part one (I) of the four modules (I-IV), and taught on the first 2 or 3 days of the AYM Therapist Training (I-IV).
So, you will join automatically the Fundamentals of the AYM method (I) by registering to the Therapist Training (I-IV).
Is there an exam at the end of my Ayurvedic Yoga Massage Training course?
Participants receive the certification on the last day of the training program after giving a 60 to 90-minutes Ayurvedic Yoga Massage treatment to an external volunteer under the instructor’s supervision. This evaluation day is called the clinical day.
Can I really learn to give this amazing massage?
Yes, we’ll teach you the full sequence of massage, and how to give precisely the strokes and stretches to your friends and family. You will success and love it 🙂 see our review
Are all the materials included in the course fees?
Yes
Do I need to be a Yoga Teacher or a Yogi(ni) to join an ARYM training?
No, only prerequisite to join a training is a genuine interest. Although a background in yoga may be helpful, many newcomers participants become great practitioners.
Is it possible to join only certain parts of the 8 or 12-day Therapist Training course, such as 2, 3, 4, or 6 days?
Priority is given to students who are completing the full therapist training on either the 8 or 12-day course. However, if there are available spaces, it may be possible to attend certain parts of the course. Nevertheless, it is highly recommended that participants register for the complete course (Certified Practitioner), as learning is easier when attending the full course with the same group. Attending the complete course provides a natural continuity of classes, where participants become more attentive, caring, and confident. It is also a collective and friendly experience of giving and receiving, and feedback is essential for students to gain the personal confidence necessary to practice a complete Ayurvedic Yoga massage treatment.
What is the duration of a refresher course?
The refresher course spans over a period of 3 to 5 days, comprising a total of 21 hours. It is conducted as a part of the AYM practitioner training program.
There are no training courses scheduled in my area, can I request one?
Yes, you are welcome to contact us directly and we can organize one.
What are the prerequisites for the AYM training courses?
Here the prerequsite for the Therapist Training (TT), Instructor Therapist (IT) and Masterclass (MC):
Introduction to AYM Therapy (TT-1): Open to everyone
AYM Certified Practitioner (TT-1-4): Open to everyone
AYM Therapist Diploma (TT-5): Certified Practitioner (TT-1-4)
AYM Assistant Instructor (IT-1-4): Therapist Diploma (TT-5)
AYM Certified Instructor (IT-5): Therapist Diploma plus a substantial experience as an AYM Therapist
AYM Instructor Diploma (IT-6): Prior completion or been into the process (at least 1 of 3 of the 3 parts) of the Certified Instructor (IT-5), plus a substantial experience as AYM Therapist. At least 1 participation as Assistant Instructor (IT-1-4).
AYM Masterclass: Open to AYM Certified/Diploma therapists (TT-1-4 and TT-5)
AYM Professionalization days: Open to AYM Certified/Diploma therapists (TT-1-4 and TT-5) for Recertification or any need of refinement of techniques. Advisable for newly certified Practitioners (TT-1-4)
What materials will I get on joining the course?
You will get a course booklet, covering the complete sequences, text descriptions and range of techniques with images and space to annotate the procedures. Oil, powder, mattresses, lungis, etc. will be provided for the duration of the course.
Can I become a Certified massage therapist?
Yes you can, just enroll to our Therapist Training courses and we will teach you everything. You will learn easily the sequence and develop confidence to become AYM practitioners.
What is the validity of the Certificate/Diploma?
There is no expiration date for the ARYM certificate and diploma. However, it is strongly recommended that you take at least one 21-hour refresher course every two years. This is to maintain and refine one’s skill with the techniques learned, acquire new ones and cultivate confidence in our AYM therapist skills.
What is calamus powder?
Calamus powder is a powdered form of the root of the Acorus calamus plant. This plant is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine due to its various therapeutic properties such as its antioxidant and diuretic effects. It is also believed to have mind-enhancing qualities and has been used in meditation practice in India for centuries.
Is it necessary to join the module introduction to AYM therapy (I), before registering for the Therapist Training (I-IV)?
Yes and no!
No, because it is possible to register directly for the complete Therapist Training (I-IV or I-V), even without prior experience in terms of massage, yoga or therapy.
Yes, because the introduction to AYM Therapy (I) is included, as the first module, in the Therapist Training (I-IV). Part I teaching the back of the body, you will inevitably be led to follow it.
The registration to the introduction to AYM Therapy (I) is intended for people who do not have the time or the financial, to commit on the 8 to 12 days of the AYM Therapist Training.
What is the cost of the refresher course?
The cost of the refresher course may vary depending on the duration and location. In Europe, the cost ranges from €300 for a 2-day course to €450 for a 3-day course, while in India, the cost ranges from €180 for a 2-day course to €450 for a 3-day course. Please note that prices are subject to change, and it is recommended that you contact the ARYM Institute for the most up-to-date information on course fees. You can find prices for each event listed on the ARYM Institute’s schedule, which is available at https://www.anantamassage.com/schedule.
Are accommodation and food included in the training fees?
Accommodation: Check in the specific course description to see if accommodation is included.
We are not managing accommodation but depending on the venue, we can help you to find a room. For example, for training in Mysore, you can visit this page sharing useful information: https://www.anantamassage.com/faq/practice-in-gokulam-mysore.html
Meals: Check in the specific course description to see if meal(s) is/are included.
In India, we also serve a lunch in Goa training and an early diner after the class in Mysore.
Tea break and snacks: Depending on the venue we offer tea, coffee, water and snacks at breaks.
What is the address of the venue?
Training courses are held in various locations around the world. The address of the training location is specified for each event on the schedule page. If a location is not yet specified or confirmed, as soon as it is, all participants will be informed.
What is the difference between Thai Yoga Massage and Ayurvedic Yoga Massage?
AYM is an oil massage, given on the skin vs Traditional Thai Yoga massage is an acupressure technique given with clothes on.
AYM focuses on Breathing, fluid circulation and Prana vs Traditional Thai Yoga massage focuses on Chinese meridians.
After the Therapist Diploma, how to continue my AYM education?
Yes, after completing the Certified Practitioner (1-4) course, you will be given the confidence to start a carrier with AYM. You will be able to deliver 60 to 90-minute individual sessions to clients. Therefore, depending to one’s ability, right after the course one should practice giving some sessions to family/friends or with other students to integrate the flow of the treatment and receive plenty of necessary feedback. Usually, after 5 to 20 sessions given after the course, you will feel ready to take paid clients.
Also, it is highly recommended to join the Therapist Diploma (TT-5) to validate the knowledge you will have learnt in the Certified Practitioner (TT-1-4), so to get more guided practice, deepen the techniques and reinforce the technique, as it is a dense program with a vast amount of manoeuvres.
What can I expect in a first AYM treatment
During your first ayurvedic Yoga massage treatment, you can expect a unique experience that blends traditional Ayurvedic massage techniques with assisted yoga stretches. The therapist will typically begin by assessing your physical and emotional condition and creating a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs. The massage itself will involve a combination of deep tissue massage, joint mobilization, and stretching, which work together to release tension and improve circulation throughout the body. Depending on your preferences and the therapist’s expertise, the treatment may also include the use of herbal oils or other specialized techniques to enhance the therapeutic benefits of the massage. Overall, you can expect to leave the session feeling deeply relaxed, rejuvenated, and balanced in both body and mind.
Can I learn Ayurveda at the ARYM Institute?
The AYM-ARYM Therapist Training covers the fundamental principles of Ayurveda. Our training courses are mainly hands-on and focuses on the massage and Yoga therapeutical aspects to perform massage with a series of assisted yoga stretches. In addition, we offer a 3-hours Masterclass named: Ayurveda – the science of Life.
It should be emphasised that in terms of intensive study time, learning Ayurvedic medicine as a professional is comparable to learning Western medicine; it involves years of commitment.
Therefore, an amateur that wishes to learn the Ayurvedic style of Life are welcome to train with our partners: Dr. Sonali H. Shinde BAMS, MD, our with Vedic Educator: Line White.
Contact us to find out more.
Can you explain the Instructor program (I-VI)?
After a substantial amount of practice, an AYM Diploma Therapist can enroll into the Instructor program (I-VI). The ARYM instructor diploma is done in 3 stages:
- AYM ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR (I-IV)
- AYM CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR (V)
- AYM INSTRUCTOR DIPLOMA (VI)
During the AYM ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR (I-IV), a student assists Ananta on a complete Therapist training. After 1 or several period of assisting (depending on skill level), a student will receive from Ananta the Authorized Instructor Certificate, so he can start to teach.
The AYM CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR (V) is composed of 3 modules of 5 or 6 days each (part 1, 2 and 3). These can be taken separately and in any order. The Instructor Certificate enables the student to progressively facilitate the 4 main phases of the ARYM program.
The AYM DIPLOMA INSTRUCTOR (VI) is a post-internship personal work that validates the Diploma, enhance practical experience by supporting of a group of students…
Find out more
What language are the trainings taught in?
All courses are conducted in English, except in France where courses are taught simultaneously in both French and English. For other locations such as Spain, Portugal, China, Taiwan, etc., simultaneous translation is provided by a professional translator to ensure effective communication between the instructor and participants who speak different languages.
What is the class schedule?
Les horaires sont variable d’un lieu à un autre et même parfois dans un même stage. Les dates et les horaires sont indiqués sur chaque page d’événement. Veuillez vérifier pour chaque événement.
Pause thé/café : Chaque classe du matin et de l’après-midi a une pause de 10 à 15 minutes.
What is the ideal duration of a massage?
The ideal duration of an AYM massage treatment can varie from one person to another, but it is common practice to book for a 60 to 90-minute massage. A treatment lasting 75 minutes will provide enough time to cover the entire body, including a facial massage at the end of the treatment. The session can sometimes last longer, however, it is often better to receive 2 massages of 75-minute each, spaced at 2 to 3 days apart. The effect will be much better.
Do I need to have my certificate or diploma validated every 2 years?
Yes, you will need even there is no certificate expiration date, but a refresher course is highly recommended every 2 years to refine techniques and learn new ones.
Is it possible to complete the Therapist Training course in different locations?
Yes, you can join the training modules at any location where the ARYM Institute offers them. For instance, you may choose to complete your Practitioner Therapist (I-IV) modules in France and your Practitioner Diploma (V) in the UK or India, among other options. This flexibility allows you to customise your training experience to your schedule and preferences while still receiving comprehensive training in Ayurvedic Yoga massage from qualified instructors at ARYM Institute.
What should I wear during the class?
Something loose and comfortable, cotton pants and shorts are good, a comfortable t-shirt works well. It is also good to bring a pair of socks and something warm if the weather is cold. A pair of flip-flops is also good to run around the facility.
What can one expect receiving an Ayurvedic Yoga Massage?
Ayurvedic Yoga Massage will benefit anyone, whether you are looking for a massage therapy that works deep in the muscle tissue and helps to realign the musculoskeletal system or just a gentle deep relaxation massage. A selection of stretches will be performed according to one’s needs, opening the body where it is most needed, releasing tensions and stress, and improving flexibility.
Are the AYM workshops suited for me?
Our training program is open to anyone who has an genius interest in learning about AYM, either for professional purpose (as medical practitioners, professional therapists, yoga teacher, etc.), or simply these that would like to massage their friends and loved ones. We always adjust the content and intensity of the class to everyone. Rare are the case when the training is not suitable to someone. It happened that someone joining a Yoga Teacher Training of plus than 8 hours/day found the experience of both class in the same period of time very exhausting. Do not overload you in your training time.
Are ARYM Training Courses Certified?
The ARYM certification is approved by IICT (International Institute for Complementary Therapists) and qualify you for discounted premiums and extended coverage on Public Liability Indemnity Insurance.
IICT affiliation allows students to be covered during professional massage practice in 30 countries. Find out more: goo.gl/5kGt1q
Do I need to be a Massage Therapist to join an AYM Therapist Training?
No, the training is open to everyone
Will I be qualified after completing the Certified practitioner (I-IV) start practicing on clients?
Yes, after completing the Level 4 Certified Therapist Training you will be able to work with the AYM technique taking clients for 50 to 90-minute individual sessions.
Usually, depending to one’s ability, right after the course one should practice giving some sessions to family/friends or with other students to get into the flow of the treatment and receive plenty of feedback. After 5 to 20 practice sessions after the course, you will feel ready to take clients.
It is highly recommended to join the L.5 Therapist Diploma to get more guided practice, deepen the techniques and reinforce the material learnt during L.1-4 training course, as it is a vast amount of work and a dense program.
What is the difference between an 8-day and 12-day Therapist Training?
Program and total number of hours are the same, but more or less hours per day.
- 8-day training timing: 9:30 – 17:30* – Total 56 hours
- 12-day training timing: 12:30 – 16:45* – Total 56 hours
*The timings can be variable depending events and venue.
Where can I buy Calamus powder?
The ARYM Institute can can provide you with an excellent quality of calamus powder for Ayurvedic Yoga Massage
mailto:[email protected]
How can I find an AYM therapist or masseur in my area?
Please visit our page Find-Therapist and check out on the search bar. Do not hesitate to visit this page again as many of our former therapists are adding their profile in this new site feature. Contact us if there is no therapist listed in your area and we’ll advise you further.
Can I join professionalisation days right after completing the Certified Practitioner (I-IV)?
Professionalisation days are extra days of practice added sometime after the Certified/Diploma training dates. It is highly advisable to join these professionalisation days soon after the certificate. It is an excellent opportunity to practice and integrate the material covered in the Therapist Training. You will provide massage treatments under Instructor supervision and receive individual feedback. It is the best start-up for your practice.
Can I learn Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology with the ARYM Institute
Yes, we are providing Master classes specially deigned to teach anatomy, Physiology and Pathology related to the practice of Ayurvedic Yoga Massage.
What should I bring for the training?
Depending on the venue, we are providing all or part of the necessary materials. We email all the participants to let them know what to bring for the course.
We always provide mattresses, bedsheets, booklet, oil, essential oils, herbal powder, face cream etc. You can bring your own facial cream, body oil, and personal bedsheets and towels, if you have any special preferences. In some location we are asking you to bring your own bedsheets.
Bring comfortable clothes to give and receive massage, such as large trousers, t-shirts, shorts, etc. Yoga clothes are ok, although they may feel a bit tight and unfortunately get oily.
To receive the treatment, you need to wear underwear (stretchable underwear for men is better). Optional for female: a top tube or a large scarf or sarong to wrap your body easily and quickly in between sequences.
Bring a protective case for glasses if you wear any.
A pair of sandals (flip flop/Havaïanas).
A water bottle and a mug (if you want to prevent using disposable cups).
How long should I wait to join the Therapist Diploma (V) after completion of the Certified Practitioner (I-IV)?
It is advisable to join the 56-hour Therapist Diploma course soon after the certified practitioner course although you can join anytime. It is always better to validate your knowledge and sharpen your practice. “it is a unbeatable key to success in your practice.
What is Ayurvedic Yoga Massage (AYM)?
Ayurvedic Yoga Massage (AYM) is a bodywork method that combines traditional Indian deep tissue massage and assisted yoga-based stretching therapy. It is an full body oil massage incorporating an ayurvedic herb used as a scrub called Acorus Calamus, that gives greater efficiency to massage and the very specific feeling of Ayurvedic Yoga Massage. The method AYM has been developed in the early 1980’ by Master Kusum Modak from Pune, India. As a devoted student of Yoga guru BKS Iyengar, Kusum brought together the essence of therapeutic alignment/adjustment of Iyengar yoga together with the traditional remedial Indian deep tissue massage. find out more
Who teaches the training
All classes are taught by Ananta Sylvain Girard, who has been practising and teaching AYM for over 25 years. Between 1997 and 2001, Ananta was the assistant and personal secretary of Master Kusum Modak, the developer of the Ayurvedic Yoga Massage method find out more about Ananta
What will I get from the course?
The trainings are truly hands-on, enabling one to give a 50-90 minute Ayurvedic Yoga Massage by the end of Certified Therapist (I-V)
With the Diploma Therapist (I-V), you will learn how to practice even more stretches, with the confidence that comes with revising and further integrating material already learned.
With the Diploma Instructor (I-VI), you will initiate how to teach the ARYM method to other students.
And the Masterclasses will deepen your knowledge on specific topics, techniques, …
Certificates or Diploma are given after each course.
learn more about ARYM training