Thai massage

In reality, all is well. All it takes to remember this truth is a moment of silence, of dropping all the mental activity and noise... and see what's left. Unfortunately, in our hectic lifestyles, we rarely pay attention to the simplicity of the present moment. As the pace of modern life accelerates, we disconnect more and more from our essence, our nervous systems locked in a constant stress-loop. Thai massage techniques are ancient and spiritual that help us connect with an inner sense of freedom and peace. Thai Yoga massages encourage us to slow down and settle into the moment so that we can rediscover the silence that is beneath all the habitual mental activity.

Thai massage is a centuries-old method of prevention against the unfavourable influences of civilisation pressures such as stress and fatigue. Thai massage is believed to have been developed by Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha, physician to Buddha, more than 2,500 years ago in India. It made its way to Thailand, where the Ayurvedic techniques and principles gradually became influenced by traditional Chinese medicine. For centuries, Thai massage was performed by monks as one component of Thai medicine.

Working the energy lines is the basis of Thai massage. Thai medicine is based on the belief that there is an intrinsic life force or energy (prana) that circulates within the body. To create health and vitality, it is essential to allow this energy to circulate freely. When prana is blocked or restricted, sickness or disease results which can manifest physically, emotionally or even spiritually. The main purpose of Thai massage is to clear such blockages and allow energy to flow along the sen (energy line). Although not based on the Chinese meridian system, the sen energy system is very similar. The stretching and energy line work in Thai massage is important in helping to lengthen muscles and make them more flexible, supple and less prone to injury, while joints benefit from a greater range of motion. Studies have also shown that stretching can have a protective effect via increased skeletal muscle tensile strength. The stretching in Thai massage also release endorphins, further promoting relaxation.

Muscle compression, joint mobilisation and acupressure are also used during treatment. People describe Thai massage as both relaxing and energising. Thai massage is usually done on a padded mat on the floor. No oil is applied, so you are fully dressed. A typical Thai massage is 60 minutes to two hours long.

Though very dynamic, Thai massage is deeply relaxing, enabling the body and mind to re-balance naturally. As with any yoga practice, blood and lymph circulation are increased and internal organs are stimulated, all helping to strengthen the immune system, re balance the endocrine system and clear toxins from the body. In addition, the variety of stretching and joint isolation exercises helps to increase joint mobility and flexibility. Since the technique respects each person's body type and level of flexibility, Thai massage is ideal for many individuals.