Thai massage is believed to have been introduced over 2,500 years ago by a contemporary of Gautama Buddha known as Shivago. It’s one of the oldest types of massage in the world. Thai massage is also known as Ancient Thai Massage or Nuad Boran or Nuad Thai by the locals. The massage skills were taught only to men by the monks and these men in turn passed on their knowledge to their children which went on from generation to generation. The Wat Pho temple in Bangkok contains inscriptions of massage techniques on its walls to preserve the massage techniques.
The massage stretches the muscles, identifies pressure points, and compresses the muscles. A complete massage incorporates the principles of yoga, meditation, exercise, acupressure, healing arts, and reflexology. Proper nutrition and medicinal herbs are also essential for a good massage. Focus is on circulation and pressure points. The massage uses external pressure to achieve specific internal effects in the body. The masseuse not only uses the hands but also the knees, elbows or feet as required to apply pressure. This pressure is applied along the energy flow lines or sen as the Thais call it. If the sen is blocked, a can suffer major ailments so the massage is a way to ensure that the sen is flowing well.
The massage is done on a mat or light mattress on the floor and the individual is fully dressed with feet left open. It’s recommended that you wear loose comfortable clothing. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful to facilitate meditation. It varies from masseuse to masseuse, depending on the techniques and pressure applied. A well-trained masseuse first assesses the body to check if any area needs special healing and adapts accordingly. Normally, the massage starts from the feet and moves upwards to the head with slow movements to loosen the body in tune with the pulse rate. The yoga movements are created to help both the masseuse and the client. These are easy and simple to perform. The yoga is combined with acupressure to enhance the massage.
It restores the energy flow in the body so it can be used to treat a variety of ailments. A proper massage relaxes the body and increases flexibility. It increases awareness, clears any blockages in energy flow, relieves various pains, reduces stress, headaches, fatigue, and blood circulation. The main goal of the massage is not to cure diseases but to maintain good health and well being of an individual. It’s especially useful for athletes as it helps heal injuries faster, providing a sense of calm.
Not all people may be comfortable with a Thai massage so it’s important not to tense up during the massage as it can cause more damage to the body. It’s also advisable not to eat or drink alcohol a few hours prior to the massage. People with heart conditions, recent surgeries or pregnant women should avoid a Thai massage.
- The Benefits of Thai Massage
- The Healing Benefits
- More Thai Massage Benefits
- Precautions & Contradictions
- Massage Precautions
