Traditional Thai massage has been used for more than 2,000 years in Thailand and around the world. Thai massage is based upon traditional Thai medicine, which embraces the theory that the body contains 10 sen, or energy lines, that run the length of the body from head to toe. Through massage of specific points along the energy lines, blocked energy is released and balance restored to the body, mind and soul.
Traditional folk Thai massage
Thai massage is administered on a mat on the floor with the patient wearing comfortable, loose clothing. The masseur uses hands, palms, thumbs, elbows, knees, forearms, toes and feet to slowly, firmly and rhythmically move your body through yoga-like stretches. The rhythmic massage incorporates manipulation of energy line points, deep stretching, gentle twisting and relaxed, deep breathing.
Traditional royal Thai massage
This type of Thai massage was reserved for the royal family and aristocrats. It is similar to the Thai folk massage in focusing on the ten sen lines. However, special emphasis was placed on respect for the patient. The masseur would approach the patient by walking on knees and hands and remain 35 centimeters away from the patient for the session. The masseur used only hands and fingers to apply pressure to the sen points.
Styles of Thai massage
According to the Thai Healing Alliance International organization, two styles of Thai massage are used today. They differ primarily with the technique used to manipulate the energy lines. The Southern style uses thumbs and fingers to “pluck” pressure points along the energy lines of your body. The Northern style is similar to the traditional folk massage, which is characterized by gradual pressure on the energy lines, gentle rocking motion and deep stretches.
Thai body massage begins with the feet and progresses to the head and face. A session can last from 90 minutes to two hours.
Thai foot reflexology
Like the body massage, Thai foot reflexology uses pressure on the energy lines to unblock the flow of energy. The masseur applies pressure on specific points on the feet with the fingers and hands as well as a traditional jap sen stick. The massage restores the balance of energy to specific body parts and internal organs.
Thai foot massage is done independently of the body massage and can last up to one hour.
Herbal Thai massage
Herbal Thai massage combines the application of warm, herbal Thai compresses and body massage. The herbal bundle or samunphrai is steamed and then gently rolled on various parts of the body. The aroma of ginger, eucalyptus, lemongrass, turmeric, kaffir lime, camphor and other herbs is not only soothing but enhances the body massage.
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