Jill Blandford
‘I have just returned from completing my level 5 AYM with Despina on Chios. It hard to put into words how wonderful the experience was for me. Firstly, it was so nourishing to be by the sea and enjoy the Greek sunshine. Every day started with some wonderfully energising yoga sessions:
6.-7.30am – Ashtanga, 7.30-9 yoga flow outside. These are not compulsory & I tended to do the yoga flow most days as I felt it really benefitted the massage positions we take up when giving treatments.
All meals are prepared & eaten together outside. This is a learning experience in itself as Despina shares her know-how about how to produce such tasty vegan food with local produce. Despina goes out of her way to accommodate all preferences. The olive oil, lemons, tomatoes & olives are wonderful! The course is vegan & I feel it is important to respect this when on the course. You will certainly return feeling healthy!
The massage course itself is very thorough, enjoyable & experiential. I was repeating techniques from levels 1-4 which was so beneficial for me to deepen my knowledge of how & where tension & stress can build in the body and how these AYM techniques are so effective to release. It really is the most wonderfully relaxing & therapeutic treatment on all levels. We also had the opportunity to watch some case studies, prepare bespoke plans for treatments & practise on some locals!
In the middle of the 10 day course, we had two days off to go sight-seeing, spend time on stunning beaches, swim in the turquoise sea and eat in tavernas whilst watching the sun set. I though I had died & gone to heaven!
I have returned completely refreshed and committed to developing my skills as AYM therapist. Despina not only teaches us practical skills & techniques but also inspires us to become conscious healers. I feel truly blessed that AYM is on my path.
I cannot recommend this course highly enough’