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Thai Massage

See Also:
Thai Yoga Massage
Traditional Thai Massage

Thai massage is a combination of Yoga stretches, stimulation of the meridians � Acupressure points, muscle massage and joint manipulation/stimulation. Thai Massage is an extraordinary method of aligning the energies of the body, and originates from the time of the Buddha.

Thai Massage is an interactive manipulation of the body using passive stretching and gentle pressure along energy lines. These movements help to

1. adjust the skeletal structure
2. increase flexibility
3. relieve muscular and joint tension
4. stimulate internal organs
5. balance the body's energy system

The effect is uniquely relaxing as well as energizing. Receiving a Thai massage is a bit like doing yoga without putting forth any effort while also getting acupressure treatments!

Sessions typically last two hours, and are performed on a floor mat with the client dressed in comfortable loose clothing. Thai Massage uses two primary procedures - applying gentle pressure with the hands and feet, and a wide variety of passive stretching movements.

With these techniques, applied in a quietly meditative atmosphere, space is created in the muscoskeletal structure, the body begins to open and regain flexibility and ease of movement, while the mind gently returns to calm alertness. Tension and toxic material is released from the joints, muscles, and connective tissue. The energy body, as well as the internal organs, are stimulated by pressure on peripheral reflex points.

The work displays an inherent knowledge of the inner workings of the body, a knowledge that developed over centuries of practice. There is something in the essence of this work that appeals to a wide range of people on a core level; something that satisfies their physical and emotional needs, and perhaps even assists in their spiritual needs.

It appeals to people, and is effective, because it treats the client with respect while encouraging them to let go of physical and emotional restrictions and to go beyond their present limitations. Or, as a client once observed, "it's a whole and total approach to wellness" which allows one to "feel in harmony with the rhythms of life".

This ancient therapy is beneficial for young or old, active or inactive, healthy or not so healthy. While each person will respond to this work in terms of their own experience and present state of health, it is well to remember that Thai Massage has been used for countless generations to treat degenerative conditions and promote wellness.

Thai Massage facilitates a sense of unity, wholeness, and balance. It creates a dynamic physical experience which integrates the body, mind, emotions and spirit.

How Thai Massage is done
Fig. 1: Extension of ham string muscles.
The movements are systematized so that the muscles are relaxed and the body is warmed before the stretches are introduced. Figure 1 shows a stretch that follows gentle compression along the energy lines of the leg. It is part of the hip and leg opening sequence.

Figures 2 and 3 illustrate how similar the poses and counterposes are to Yoga postures, all of which increase flexibility of the spine. Figure 4 extends the muscles of the shoulders and the back. The practitioner uses her feet and forearms in addition to hands, elbows and knees to coax the body to release areas of tightness, only to the limit of the receiver. The sequence of movements employs repetition and ever-deepening pressure, giving the body time to act in concert with the mind in the letting go process.

Fig. 2 "Plough"---forward bending
Fig. 3 "Cobra"---backward bending
Fig. 4 Spine lengthening

How will I benefit by Thai Massage
Thai massage:

1. opens the musculo-skeletal structure of the body and thereby improves flexibility
2. enhances the organic functions of the body by stimulating blood circulation and lymphatic drainage
3. reduces stress by calming and balancing the nervous system
4. relaxes tense muscles with repetitive motions done in a slow, rocking rhythm
5. invigorates and rejuvenates by opening energy blockages
6. increases awareness of mind/body connections

Will it hurt, and can I do it?
Thai massage is never painful. Receiving Thai treatment is pleasurable and creates a sense of well-being. It is a profound way of honoring the body. The use of pressure, especially on the legs, and compression in the abdominal area is deeply sedating while the passive stretching movements create a feeling of being more alive. Those with limited flexibility are challenged to move only within their range. The receiver dictates how deeply or how far a movement is pushed - you are never pushed past the limits of your comfort. In short, both young and old, active and inactive, alike will feel the benefits of this form of body therapy.