Franco Rebagliati

Born and raised in Buenos Aires Argentina, Franco found surfing as a child, which changed his life forever. At an early age Franco found Californian massage (name given in Argentina to Esalen massage), a technique which uses rhythm, corporal expression and sensitivity, it was like a new kind of artistic expression mixing everything he loved. He gained a degree and became a professional therapist developing his personal style working around the world.

Based in South India and Sri Lanka since 2012 Franco gained a deep connection with his craft allowing him to put his very essence at the service of his work

In 2016 the concept for YOU ARE THE SEA was born. Out of an epiphany and after years of body work and surfing. “it was like a relief of being able to put in words all these feelings.”

You are the sea stands for a feeling, a place between thoughts, a deeper way to accept our place in this world and a call to open our consciousness.

Emilie de la Chapelle

Growing up in Finland, Emilie’s childhood was largely spent in the forest and near the sea, places that continue to inspire her.

In 2016 she was introduced to bodywork therapy, beginning an exciting journey of exploring various styles of manual therapies and healing modalities. In 2021 she discovered and fell in love with aquatic bodywork, combining her passion for the water and massage therapy.

A year later, inspired by the concept of YOU ARE THE SEA, Emilie came to Sri Lanka to train and work with YAS. Emilie understands movement and bodywork as a form of art, an expression of the self.

Her curiosity for the human existence continues to inspire her exploration of the world and her work. 

Anthony Dimaggio

Having been fortunate to grow up on the west coast of the United States, surrounded by open nature and expansive ocean. Anthony was drawn to action sports at a young age. At the time, never quite understanding how the embodied essence of these sports would impact his career later on.

First being exposed to the power of touch almost 10 years ago. Anthony immediately uprooted his life and found himself studying bodywork at Esalen Institute. Now being a multidisciplinary practitioner who shares half his time between the south of Sri Lanka and Esalen Institute. He shares his practice and love for the body on a daily basis.

“Finding touchbased therapies and movement has not only changed my personal relationship with myself and the world around me. It also gives me a platform in which I can express and share the beauty of life I perceive” - Anthony