Thai massage is a traditional therapy that combines acupressure, Ayurvedic principles from India and assisted yoga poses. It is always done clothed, on a mat or on the floor. The receptors are guided through a series of yoga-like stretches, as well as a combination of abdominal work, breathing signals, deep tissue massage and applying pressure to specific points on the body. This increases the range of motion of the joints and muscles, and can also improve posture.
Gradual, gentle stretching will improve a person's flexibility over time, allowing for a greater range of motion. The idea of SEN-lines, aka energy lines, was first used as a Thai yoga massage. These are similar to Nadis according to Gorakhnath's philosophy of yoga. With Thai massage, massage therapists use larger muscles, along with gravity.
The practitioner's movements originate in the center and keep the back straight, the shoulders open and the chest relaxed even when moving. Body mechanics and working with gravity help lift heavy objects, so to speak. Thai massage does not use any oil and you are fully clothed while receiving the massage. The therapist will apply pressure along the meridian lines of your body and stretch it during the massage.
Thai massage also uses energy, which involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to open channels that will improve energy flow throughout the body. Burynski returned to Thailand to continue her studies, and then became an instructor and opened her own Thai massage school, Living Sabai, in Asheville. They offer other spa services, such as facials, body scrubs, and oil massages, but I've only received their Thai massage and foot massage. Because clothing is worn during a Thai massage, what you wear for your treatment is actually an important consideration.
And if you're wondering how Thai massage could fit into your current practice, Spivack has some encouraging words. The study group was small, but if you share this information with someone who has had a Thai massage before, they'll confirm it to you. I love deep tissue massages and a lot of pressure, but the pressure of a Thai massage is even too much for me sometimes and I have to tell the therapist to calm down. Like other forms of massage therapy, the benefits of Thai massage for clients may include relaxation, increased mobility, and the relief of pain associated with many chronic illnesses.
Thai massage generally works with compression, and practitioners use the feet, elbows, knees, and hands to compress and stretch the client. After the first semester, pregnant women should consult with a doctor and talk to their Thai massage therapist to make sure the session is safe. Because traditional Thai full body massage is so different from Western-style massages, I've explained step by step what to expect. Thai massage is sometimes affectionately referred to as “assisted yoga”, since its principles are based on improving the flow of energy throughout the body.
In this case, the Thai masseur sets the postures while the patient remains immobile, then pushes and pulls different limbs to stretch and release the muscles.
