I am a yoga teacher. In Savasana, I did a “Thai Massage” stretch on a student. I pulled too hard. Dislocated shoulder. The state board fined me for practicing massage without a license, and my insurance denied the claim because “Bodywork” is excluded from my Yoga policy.
Key Takeaways
- Scope of Practice: In most states, “Massage” requires a license (LMT). Yoga teachers cannot legally perform massage.
- “Incidental Touch” vs. “Manipulation”: Adjusting a pose is yoga. Pulling/stretching a passive student is bodywork.
- Illegal Acts Exclusion: Insurance does not cover illegal acts (practicing without a license).
- Dual Certification: If you are an LMT and RYT, you need a policy that covers both.
The “Why”: The Licensing Board
The Trap:
“Thai Yoga Massage” sounds like yoga. Legally, it is often defined as massage.
If you don’t have an LMT license, you are breaking the law.
Insurance denies claims arising from criminal/unlicensed acts.
The Investigation: I Quoted 3 Major Carriers
1. ABMP
- My Analysis: They cover LMTs and RYTs. If you have both certs, this is the policy to get.
2. beYogi
- My Analysis: Covers yoga adjustments. Explicitly excludes “Massage Therapy” unless you add the LMT endorsement.
3. AMTA
- My Analysis: Massage focused. Covers yoga as a secondary modality.
[IMAGE: Diagram showing “Yoga Adjustment” vs “Thai Massage”]
Comparison Table: Touch Liability
| Action | Yoga Teacher | Dual LMT/RYT |
| Correction | Covered | Covered |
| Passive Stretch | Excluded | Covered |
| Deep Tissue | Excluded | Covered |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Know Your State Law: Does your state define “Thai Massage” as massage?
- Don’t Call it Massage: Call it “Assisted Stretching” (if legal).
- Get LMT Insurance: If you do this, get the license and the insurance.
- Consent: Essential.
FAQ
Can I use a massage gun?
That is a tool. Product liability/Bodywork. High risk for yoga teachers.
Is Reiki covered?
Energy work is usually covered under yoga policies (no manipulation).
What if I didn’t charge extra?
Still liability.