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Thai massage is one of the four healing methods in traditional Thai medicine, and has been practiced for over 2500 years.
Based on acupressure points according to Indian Ayurveda, traditional Chinese medicine and yoga, Thai massage is unique as it does not seek to relax the body unlike massages, yet it is still remains very popular.
In a traditional Thai massage, the massage begins with the therapist saying a 'puja'. This is a meditative prayer to remind the therapist of the four divine states of mind in Buddhist teachings: compassion, loving kindness, vicarious joy and mental equanimity. These four states are believed to help the therapist provide a healing experience for the recipient.
Thai massage is provided slowly in order to ensure that one is able to facilitate a tendency towards mindfulness. One receives this massage on a floor mat. This allows for the practitioner to do movements that would be otherwise impossible to perform on a table. The therapist uses his hands, thumbs, fingers, elbows, forearms, knees and feet to apply pressure during the massage. The recipient's body is placed in specific positions in order to create a smooth energy flow within the body. There are generally four positions:
Thai massage is often used to assist in loosening joints, stretching muscles and even toning internal organs. Although the massage is not relaxing the after-effect should be deep relaxation and an overall sense of well-being.
Next week: Chinese massage
For more information on massage therapy, visit Les Nouvelles Esthetiques South Africa.
