What is Thai massage?Thai massage, or Nuad Thai, is an ancient, intuitive art. At the most basic level, it stimulates the pranamaya kosha, or energy body, encouraging the flow of life force throughout the material body. In this way, Thai massage differs notably from Classical/Swedish massage. Rather than focusing primarily on mechanical tissues, such as muscles and tendons, Nuad Thai relates to ten primary sib (meridians, or energy lines), correspondent to the major organs and systems of the body. Techniques include acupressure along these lines, joint mobilization, and yogic stretches. Many have referred to Thai massage as "assisted yoga". Much like Hatha Yoga, the effect is simultaneously relaxing and energizing, with numerous physiological benefits.
What happens in a session?The Receiver relaxes, focusing on the breath. The Giver begins by washing the feet of the Receiver and offering a silent prayer to the Teachers. From feet to head, acupressure is applied along the energy lines. The Giver uses her own body as weight, support, and balance. The first 70 minutes are spent bringing the Receiver to a balanced state of total relaxation, culminating in a facial massage. The rest of the session includes dynamic stretches intended to encourage the active flow of energy throughout the entire body. Tea is served at the close of the session. The massage takes place on a mat on the floor, with both Giver and Receiver fully clothed in loose, comfortable attire. For maximum benefit, no jewelry, cosmetics, or fragrance should be worn. What are the benefits?
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Jivaka Komarabaccha is credited with bringing the current tradition of herbal medicine to Thailand. He is believed to have once treated Gautama Buddha for an Ayurvedic imbalance. Before and after each Thai massage, a prayer is offered to the Father Doctor and all teachers in his lineage to invite their wisdom to be present and to protect the Giver and Receiver from energetic harm.
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