The Practice

Biodynamic massage differs from most other massage in two visible ways: the therapist works without oil — either directly on the skin or through clothing — and strokes typically travel downwards and outwards from the centre of the body, rather than following the conventional direction of venous return.

Beyond that, there is no fixed routine. The therapist selects and adapts techniques according to what your body presents on the day. A session may include:

Resistance work

Building muscular strength and, with it, a felt sense of personal boundary.

Energy distribution

Encouraging energy held in the deeper levels of the body to flow down and outwards through the limbs.

Connective tissue massage

Using warmth and movement to soften connective tissue so that vitality can circulate more freely.

Deep draining

Firmer work with chronically tight muscles, helping them relax and release the energy bound within them.

Lifting

Gentle work with the tendons around the joints, releasing the residues of the startle reflex.

Hypotonus massage

For muscles that are under-toned rather than tense — stretching in rhythm with the breath to restore tone.

Aura work

Work just off the surface of the body, without physical touch — valuable for clients who are frail or seriously ill.

Ending a session

Sessions often close with polarisation: the client rests on their left side while the therapist simply holds, allowing everything the session has stirred to settle.

Ready to try it? Find an ABMT registered practitioner near you.