Thai massage is also known as Thai yoga massage. This is actually a far more accurate name as, rather than a massage in the sense normally used in the West, it is more like assisted yoga. Thai massage works on the energy of the person as well as the body and is intended to improve internal health in addition to working on the musculoskeletal structure.
History
Thai massage has been practiced for more than 2,000 years. It is believed to have been brought to Thailand from India and is closely aligned to Buddhist practice. From the beginning, it was viewed as a spiritual practice and was both taught and administered in the temples. Through work with a variety of Indian doctors, it became part of the foundation of so-called alternative medicine in Thailand. As it progressed, several branches developed, all of which can be considered traditional.
Theory
In traditional Indian belief, the human body contains life energy which is called prana and circulates along lines. This is similar to the way the Chinese believe that the energy of the body, or qi, travels along the acupuncture meridians. Thai massage works on ten of these energy lines which contain the most important points. The entire body and its organs can be treated by working on these lines. As with acupuncture and other forms of acupuncture, balancing the energy in the body can help the body to heal and return to its normal state of health.
Methodology
In a traditional Thai yoga session, the practitioner will first assess the state of the person's energy or prana. As one would expect with a practice that is based on Buddhism, the attitude of the practitioner in terms of being mindful and creating the proper space for an energetic treatment is important. During the session, the therapist will use a combination of acupressure with techniques, such as rocking, stretching and asana release. An asana is a yoga position and the therapist will actually put the clients into these positions and hold them there.
Benefits
The extensive stretching helps the musculoskeletal system including muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. It will also help to improve overall circulation. The squeezing of lymph nodes under the arm specifically helps to improve lymphatic circulation. The combination of the various techniques serve to remove blockages in the energy of the client. This can serve to keep the body healthy as well as help it return to a state of health when experiencing problems. As with any massage, Thai massage treatments also help to reduce stress and enhance well-being.
Where to Find Treatments
Over the years, Thai massage had fallen into some disrepute even in Thailand. This was partially affected by the advertising of Thai massage by places that were really just fronts for prostitution. Even in the West now, you can find massage places that advertise "Asian Massage" that are not necessarily legitimate. However, there are a number of Thai massage organizations that can help you find a practitioner near where you live. Many of these practitioners go to Thailand to study and bring back the traditional methods for their clients.
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