Thai
massage is a form of body work that is becoming increasingly popular
in the West. A traditional Thai massage incorporates an ancient
combination of acupressure, energy meridian work, and yoga-like
stretching for an invigorating and balancing experience. Thai massage
improves circulation, flexibility, muscle tone, and is the perfect
complement to any exercise routine.
Called
nuad boran in Thai, the ancient art of traditional massage has been
practiced by an unbroken chain of masters since at least 300 BC. Thai
massage is directly related to Ayurvedic principles originating in
India. Like other ancient Asian techniques such as shiatsu and
reflexology, and more recent Western developments such as craniosacral therapy,
Thai massage is a form of therapy based on the theory of the flow of
energy between specific points on the periphery of the body and the
internal organs.
The masseur uses a unique combination of
acupressure and yoga-like stretching to relax muscles and work through
tension and stress. Acupressure points are sensitive 'trigger' points
that connect to musculoskeletal and organ systems throughout the body.
Linked
through an intricate network of 72,000 sen lines (Thai energy
meridians), these acupressure points stimulate and relax the patient's
mind and body, promoting the natural healing processes.
Thai
massage is most different from other forms of massage in that there is
no oil used, that the masseur uses a mattress on the floor (as opposed
to a table), and that you remain completely clothed throughout the
massage. I often describe it as having someone do yoga to you.? In fact,
Thai massage has sometimes been called 'Yoga Massage', or 'Yoga for Lazy People'!
Benefits
This
blend of acupressure and stretching is especially beneficial for those
who find themselves stiff, sore, and tired from over-exertion in work
or sports, or from arthritis or other debilitating diseases. Thai
massage enhances strength and flexibility, relaxes sore or tense
muscles, and can help to recapture lost range of motion. By encouraging
lymphatic function, this traditional deep tissue massage and
stretching can also detoxify the body, heighten the immune system, and
prevent disease and/or injury by promoting flexibility.
Theory
Thai
massage is directly related to Ayurvedic principles originating in
India, and is said to have arrived in Thailand along with Buddhism. Like
other Asian massage techniques, such as shiatsu and reflexology, and
more recent Western developments such as trigger points, Thai Massage is
a form of therapy based on the theory of the flow of energy between
specific points on the periphery of the body and the internal organs.
Even when treating a disease or injury associated with a particular part
of the body, a therapist will typically work on acupressure points
throughout the body. Linked through an intricate network of 72,000
energy meridians (sen), acupressure points stimulate and relax the
client's mind and body, promoting the natural healing processes.