Thai yoga is a therapeutic massage technique that incorporates yoga poses, called asanas, Ayurveda, meditation and martial arts. It's also known as Thai yoga massage or "nuad boran," which means "ancient massage." A Thai yoga session includes a one-on-one dance on a floor mat with both participants wearing loose, comfortable clothing. The therapist leads the recipient in a flow of asanas and uses his hands, elbows, feet and knees to apply pressure to various energy points. This helps unblock prana, or energy, and improves circulation, tones organs and loosens muscles.
Step 1
Find a good school. Look for an accredited Thai yoga training program. Ask your teachers where they trained. Some trainers have studied in Thailand and have developed their own style.
Step 2
Learn the history and philosophy. Thai yoga developed in Buddhist temples more than 2,500 years ago in the spirit of compassion and awareness. These continue to be the two major precepts of this process. It also helps to learn more about hatha yoga and Ayurveda, which are the foundation of Thai yoga, as well as the marma points, which are the 10 energy meridians.
Step 3
Read helpful books. Books such as "Thai Yoga Massage" or "Thai Yoga Therapy for Your Body Type: An Ayurvedic Tradition," both by Thai yoga expert Kam Thye Chow, provide a valuable reference.
Step 4
Meditate on a regular basis. Each practice begins with meditation to center both the client and therapist and to create a sacred space. Developing your own meditation practice can definitely improve your teaching ability as it heightens your ability to listen so you're aware of your client's needs and maintains a solid connection during the practice.
Step 5
Take good care of yourself. The philosophy of Thai yoga calls for a practice of self-care. Make sure you sleep well, eat healthy and follow a good exercise program.
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