Reprinted from DOWNTOWN Magazine Summer 2024
MUDRAS MASSAGE MAY HAVE a client roster filled with Olympian swimmers, dancers and photographers, but each client is regarded in their own special way, says founder Yotam Kafri.
“I was born in Montreal but grew up moving around a lot,”recalls Kafri, who moved with his family, also massage therapists, across Europe and Canada. “I tried different sports but didn’t find one that stuck. One pivotal moment came when I was nine. A new girl at school was upset, and despite not fully understanding her problem, I helped her to the nurse. This small act of kindness, coupled with my mother’s home remedies, led to other students coming to me for help, which made me realize I had a knack for providing support.”
Kafri initially pursued “dance professionally, performing in music videos, teaching and choreographing in New York. However, I felt that it alone wasn’t sustainable, so I decided to shift my attention towards my other passion: alternative medicine. I had previously studied this field and was practicing on a small scale, mainly helping fellow dancers.”
In 2012, he opened his first practice uptown. “Treating a practitioner downtown led to an opportunity to establish myself in Soho. The landlord, impressed with my work, offered me the space rent-free for three months to get started. This kind gesture allowed me to build a network by treating local staff and residents.“
Model: Strength and conditioning coach Thiago B. Costa. Photos: Tatiane R. Carreno
As my practice grew, I expanded my office, even installing a hidden loft to potentially live there if needed,” Kafri continues. “Despite the challenges, I managed to maintain the practice until the city required building changes, forcing me to relocate.
This transition led to meeting his great friend and colleague Don Saladino, a celebrity personal trainer, who offered him a space in his gym. “I also collaborated with other high-profile gyms and clinics, but COVID-19 disrupted everything. My parents’ advice and zooms helped me navigate the pandemic’s financial strain, and I managed to adapt and continue my practice.”
Mudras treatments are personally tailored to each individual, designed to meet their specific needs and achieve optimal results. Central to his practice is the Mudras Body Reset, The signature treatment that epitomizes his philosophy of holistic healing.
The Mudras Body Reset
During treatment, Kafri listens intently to his client’s body, addressing their unique concerns and sensations. He considers each person’s particular body type and condition, skillfully applying a blend of techniques inspired by his deep knowledge of diverse methodologies. Added to this his numerous studies of different modalities in healing, Yotam has this innate intuitive sense and a great capacity for empathy.
The Mudras Body Reset integrates elements of Swedish massage, Deep Tissue work, Thai massage, Trigger Point Therapy, Acupressure, Reflexology, Hydrotherapy, Shiatsu, Pre and Post-natal care, Sports massage, and NeuroMuscular Therapy (NMT),among others.
Kafri’s dedication to his craft and his clients is evident in every aspect of his work. He sees each session as an opportunity to connect, heal, and restore balance. It serves as a testament to the power of passion and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many.
“Throughout these experiences, I’ve learned the importance of adaptability, community, and support, both giving and receiving, which have been crucial in my journey.”
Mudras Massage, 37 W. 20th Street, sixth floor, Suite 607, mudras.com, @mudrasmassage DTM