Thai Massage: As We See It

http://www.ThaiTeachingAcademy.com

According to Vicki Kemner, LMT, NCBTMB:  
Thai massage is more energizing and rigorous than more classic forms of massage. The therapist uses his or her hands, knees, legs, and feet to move you into a series of yoga-like stretches. Thai massage is varied to suit a wide range of physical needs and is often used as a form of physical therapy to help increase range of motion and muscular strength. Thai Massage works with the body’s movement potential and energy system, and is practiced dynamically on a firm, yet comfortable floor mat, yet it can also be adapted to be administered on a sturdy massage table.   Floor mat sessions generally allow for movements that are not as effective, or not possible, on a traditional massage table. Nevertheless, the enormous variety and diversity of Thai massage techniques and postures offers many possibilities for accommodating the needs of both the therapist and the client, or recipient.  Thai massage has proven particularly helpful to persons who suffer from a wide range of illnesses including Multiple Sclerosis and Fibromyalgia. 

According to Robert Cuozzi, LMT, RYT:  Traditionally called Nuad Boran, Thai Yoga massage is an ancient healing art. The technique combines aspects of stretching, palming, acupressure, gentle rocking, and energy work, while being firmly rooted in timeless healing sciences of Ayurveda and Hatha yoga. . With a rhythmic, flowing and meditative approach, a skilled practitioner assists a fully-clothed recipient into a sequence of yoga-inspired postures, creating a deeply relaxing and therapeutic experience. Many clients report an extremely deep "waking sleep," similar to the profound healing states experienced during "Yoga Nidra."  Treatments are given on either a comfortable floor mat or a sturdy massage table.  An optimal session length is between 90 and 120 minutes.  For many, the immediate and lasting benefits are profound and substantial. As described in Massage & Bodywork Magazine: "The theoretical basis for traditional Thai healing is rooted in the belief that all forms of life are sustained by a vital force (lom) that is carried along invisible energy pathways (sen) running through our bodies. This energy force is extracted from air, water, and food, and it is believed that disease and dysfunction come about when energy becomes blocked along these pathways. Accordingly, Thai massage’s intent is to free this trapped energy, stimulate the natural flow of life force, and maintain a general balance of wellness....The result of a full-body Thai session is often an exciting and powerful mind/body experience, bringing both the recipient and the practitioner to greater states of physical and mental well-being." 

According to the Association of Bodywork and Massage Professionals:  Experts say there is an interesting dichotomy with Thai massage, as it both relaxes and rejuvenates. After the session, some clients report feeling awakened and energized, while also feeling deeply grounded and at peace. Thai massage is based on an energetic paradigm of the human body and mind. In this tradition, energy is thought to travel on pathways, called sen, throughout the body. Through the movement and massage components, the goal in Thai massage is to ensure energy is flowing freely along these pathways as a means for wellness.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Contacting us for more information or to schedule a course or retreat is easy.

We are flexible, and eager to work within your budget.

Email:  ThaiMassageTeachers@gmail.com; Call:   (413) 570-0799