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.
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