What to expect on an AYM training on Mandrem Beach, Goa
People often ask me what our training on Mandrem Beach in Goa is actually like, so here's an honest picture of the eight days, for anyone thinking about joining us in February.
Where we are: Mandrem Beach
We train at Beach Street Eco-Resort in Mandrem, North Goa. Mandrem is one of the quieter parts of the coast: a long, peaceful beach with jungle behind it, and none of the big-party feel you get further south. The shala is a short walk from the sea, and there's a pool, a restaurant and plenty of shady corners to rest in between sessions.
In February the weather is dry and warm, usually around 30°C in the day. It's one of the best months to be there.
What the days look like
Wake up by the beach, have a morning swim, then a delicious breakfast (there are lots of options to suit every diet) before a very short walk to the shala for the morning session.
The training is 99% practical. Each day I demonstrate a sequence, then work my way round the room helping each pair. You spend most of the day giving and receiving massage, so by the end of the week you know the work in your own hands and body, not just in your head.
Over the course you learn the full AYM treatment in three levels:
Level 1: the back of the body, with your partner lying face down
Level 2: the seated sequence
Level 3: the front of the body, with your partner lying face up
Along the way we look at how to use your body weight and feet, so the massage is deep for the person receiving and easy on you. We also cover the anatomy you need, when not to treat, and how to adapt the work to different bodies.
There's a day off in the middle of the week, plus two half days during the training. Most people spend them on Mandrem Beach, go to an ecstatic dance or explore the markets and old Portuguese towns. On the last day you give a full 90-minute AYM treatment as your assessment.
Who comes
You don't need any massage or yoga experience. Each group is usually a mix of yoga teachers, massage therapists and people who simply want to learn something real with their hands. What matters most is an open mind and a genuine interest.
The diploma is accredited by the IICT and the CThA UK, so afterwards you can get public liability insurance and start giving treatments professionally.
Where AYM comes from
Ayurvedic Yoga Massage was developed by Kusum Modak in Pune, India. I studied with her and have been teaching her method since founding the AYM Institute in 2009. Teaching it in India, on Mandrem Beach, still feels special to me.
The practical bits
Dates: 15–22 February 2027
Flights: Mopa (Manohar International) is the closest airport, about 30 minutes away. Dabolim is about 1.5 hours.
Training only: £1,150, finding your own place to stay nearby
Shared eco cottage: £1,375 per person, two sharing, breakfast included
Private room: £1,600 per room, breakfast included
Deposit: £250 secures your place
Early bird: save £200 on any of the options above when you book by Christmas Eve
Flights, airport transfers and other meals aren't included. Spaces are limited, as I keep the group small enough to give everyone proper attention.
Want to join us?
You'll find all the details and the booking form on the Goa training page. If you have any questions, you're very welcome to book a call with me and we can talk it through.
James