The practice of Thai massage is a part of a complete medical system, Thai Medicine, of which Thai Massage is a part, incorporates aspects of Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Thai folk healing and spiritual rituals. The practice Thai Medicine and Thai massage has been part of centuries-old oral tradition. Techniques used include gentle rocking, yogic stretches, and rhythmic compressions acupressure along energy lines (Sen), which are very similar to Chinese energy flow meridians. http://www.ipsb.edu/featured/thailand-medical-massage/ The purpose of Thai massages are to invigorate, relax, balance and integrate the body and the spirit. It improves blood and lymph circulation, torso and limb flexibility, and muscle tone. http://www.pacificcollege.edu/acupuncture-massage-publications/thai-massage-for-flexibility.html
Find further information on this site regarding the benefits of this type of massage therapy below as well as a feature video showing what a session is like. Google links and Related Mahalo links are below, as well as Thai Massage news and blogs. If you have a question, please ask in the box provided on the right of this page.
Benefits of Thai Massage
- Relaxation, Quieten the Mind and Nervous System
- Increases Flexibility and Range of Motion
- Improves Posture
- Pain Relief
- Releases Blocked Energy, restoring the balance of energy flow in the body
- Improves posture
- Improves Blood and Lymph Circulation, releasing accumulated toxins in tissues and assists in the proper functioning of the organs
- Improves Mind/Body Awareness
Thai Massage Sequence
A full Thai massage sequence performed on a mat is shown in this video. Beginning at the feet and legs, there are compressions of the inner and back of the thigh followed by stretches forwards, backwards and to the side. The stretches and compressions for the back and hips are also shown. The sequence ends at the shoulders, neck and head region.
References
Fast Facts
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Related practices
Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yoga
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Also known as
Nuad Bo-Rarn - 'ancient or sacred body work"
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Also known as
Lazy Man's Yoga, Yoga for Two - due to the passive state of the receiver
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Differences from Swedish Massage
Normally done on a floor mat or mattresss, does not use long strokes, the recipient has loosely fitting clothes, no oil is used, pressing occurs along energy lines (Sen) with hands, arms, legs and feet of the massage practicioner
