Thai Massage
_Thai massage is a type of massage in Thai
style that involves stretching and deep massage. This form of bodywork
is usually performed on the floor, and the client wears comfortable
clothes that allow for movement. No oils are used in Thai massage. It is
known in Thailand as "nuat phaen boran" (Thai: นวดแผนโบราณ, IPA: [nûət pʰɛ̌ːn boːraːn]), literally, the ancient-manner massage.
Theory Generally speaking, practitioners of modern Thai massage operate on the theory that the body is permeated with "lom," or "air," which is inhaled into the lungs and which subsequently travels throughout the body along 72,000 pathways called "sen," or "vessels." Typically, massage therapists manipulate a handful of major sen lines by pressing certain points along the lines. In most models, the sen originate at the navel and spread throughout the body to terminate at the orifices. A significant part of the practice of Thai massage also includes yoga-like stretches which are intended to stimulate the sen and move lom through the body via a pumping action which is connected with the patient's breathing. The theory of sen and lom is often translated into English as "meridians" and "energy." While there are some superficial similarities to Chinese meridian theory, the Thai system is markedly different as the sen are unconnected from the internal organs. "Nuat boran" is the Thai name for a type of body work native to Thailand (nuat = pressure, boran = ancient). Thai massage is also known as northern-style Thai massage, Buntautuk style, Old Medicine Hospital Style, traditional Thai massage, Traditional Thai Medical Massage, Ancient Massage, Thai Yoga, Thai Yoga Massage, Yoga Massage, Thai Classical Massage, Thai Bodywork, Passive Yoga, Assisted Yoga, and Ancient Siamese Bodywork. Practice The massage recipient changes into loose, comfortable clothes and lies on a mat or firm mattress on the floor. It can be done solo or in a group of a dozen or so patients in the same large room. The receiver is put into many yoga-like positions during the course of the massage. The massage practitioner leans on the recipient's body using hands and usually straight forearms locked at the elbow to apply firm rhythmic pressure. The massage generally follows the Sen lines on the body—somewhat analogous to meridians or Channel (Chinese medicine) and Indian nadis. Legs and feet of the giver can be used to fixate the body or limbs of the recipient. In other positions, hands fixate the body, while the feet do the massaging action. A full Thai massage session typically lasts two hours or more, and includes rhythmic pressing and stretching of the entire body; this may include pulling fingers, toes, ears, cracking the knuckles, walking on the recipient's back, and arching the recipient's into bhujangasana or (cobra position). There is a standard procedure and rhythm to this massage. Benefits of Thai Massage
_Physical Benefits of Thai Massage
• Help detoxification of the body and boost immune system • Increase blood circulation, lower blood pressure • Good for muscle relaxation, increase flexibility in your muscles, increase mobility • Improve breathing • Improves posture, balance, corrects body alignments and dissolves energy blockages • Improves athletic performance • Help arthritis and back pain, • Help tone the body, strengthen joints and fight diseases, including chronic joint problems • Prevents illnesses and alleviates degenerative diseases • Slows the aging process Mental Benefits of Thai Massage • Improve your outlook towards life; builds an emotional balance • Help with concentration and creativity/ Mind and body concentration • Clear and calm your mind • Help you gain mental clarity Psychological effects of Thai Massage • Reduce and relieve stress and anxiety • Help people boost their inner energy levels • Develop discipline and self-control • Achieve better health, increases health and vitality. • Raise the energy level and stamina • Build internal power (and creates a natural confidence) |