13/05/2021
What is Thai Yoga Massage?
Thai Yoga Massage is an ancient healing art which dates back to the third century BC. The practice originated in India and was founded by Dr Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha, believed to have been the personal physician of the Buddha.
Sometimes referred to as ‘assisted yoga’, Thai Yoga Massage focuses on improving the flow of energy throughout the body.
Unlike other therapies, Thai Yoga Massage incorporates all areas of the body; combining the stimulation of acupressure points with assisted stretches inspired by traditional Hatha yoga postures.
One of the key factors of Thai Yoga Massage is its focus on unblocking invisible energy lines known as the 'Ten Sen.' The Ten Sen energy system flows up and down the body and it is through this system that the body's natural life force or ‘prana’ flows. Blockages of these lines can cause headaches, severe pain, illness, disease as well as physical and emotional tension.
With its roots in Buddhism, Thai Yoga Massage is always practised in a meditative mood and is said to be "the physical application of loving kindness".
What can I expect?
Unlike typical Western-type massages, Thai Yoga Massage does not involve lying on a massage bed while a therapist kneads muscles and pressure points.
Instead, the client lies fully clothed on a mat on the ground while the practitioner uses their hands, feet and elbows to apply pressure to important points on the body. This pressure application is combined with a variety of stretching, pulling, and rocking techniques.
Oils are not usually applied but may be used when massaging back, hands and feet. As the practitioner will work over your clothes, it’s best to wear something loose-fitting and comfortable.
This practice is perhaps more rigorous then most other massage therapies and you may feel some discomfort in areas where muscles are tighter and more tender. It is often these areas that need the most attention.
The overall result is the release of blocked energy which frees the body's healing potential and restores balance and harmony.
What are the benefits?
Thai Yoga Massage is a deeply relaxing and restorative practice which can treat headache, knee, back, shoulder and neck pain. It can also relieve premenstrual tension and help with pain relief during labour.
Additionally, the treatment improves flexibility, posture and circulation, revives internal organs and results in the relief of physical and emotional tension.
I have personally found this practice to be particularly effective for releasing old toxins trapped in the body – often resulting from poor diet or weak immunity. The release of thees toxiIns can result in an immediate feeling of renewed energy and vitality.
Who is it suitable for?
Everyone! Anyone can benefit regardless of age, size or flexibility. Each treatment is designed to suit client needs and as the basic principle is to balance the energy body with palming and thumbing techniques, this form of body work can be done on or by anyone: young, old, healthy or unwell!
How long is a Thai Yoga Massage?
A traditional Thai Yoga Massage lasts 2 to 2.5 hours.
