Thai yoga massage combines yoga poses, acupressure, Ayurveda, meditation, martial arts and a therapeutic touch for a one-on-one session. Both participants wear comfortable clothing and no shoes. Working on a floor mat, the therapist leads the client through various asanas --- or yoga poses --- and applies pressure to various energy points along the body.
History
More than 2500 years ago, Ayurvedic physician Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha --- who is believed to have personally worked with the Buddha --- developed a healing practice based on the Buddhist spirit of unconditional love, compassion and awareness. Eventually, the practice spread around Asia and rooted in Thailand as "Nuad Boran," also called Thai yoga massage.
Benefits
The goal of Thai yoga massage is to allow prana, or life force, to circulate freely and clear up blockages within your body. Results can include pain relief, more flexibility, better circulation, balance, a stronger immune system, toned organs and deep relaxation.
The Practice
A Thai yoga massage session generally lasts from 60 to 90 minutes. The therapist leads the client into a variety of asanas; uses hands, feet and elbows to apply pressure to 10 specific points, called marma, on the energy meridian; and synchronizes breathing to create an calm, balanced and harmonious atmosphere.
Training
Learning to teach Thai yoga massage requires hands-on training in a specialized program. Look for credentials from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. This nonprofit organization sets ethical and professional standards for therapeutic bodywork.
While many accredited schools exist in North America, some therapists have opted to study in Thailand, either in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Training can range from a university-driven style or a more "family" style of oral and traditional lineages.
Both in Thailand and in North America, courses covered may include anatomy, teaching and methodology, physiology, ethics, communications, marketing, ethics and safety.
Teaching
Many Thai yoga massage therapists are already yoga teachers or have practiced Thai yoga massage for many years. According to Kam Thye Chow, founder of the Lotus Palm Centre in Montreal, the main qualities of an outstanding Thai yoga massage therapist, or practitioner, is the ability to transmit "lovingkindness" to a recipient, confidence in knowing the material and refined awareness of adapting and nurturing the client.
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