What is Traditional Thai Yoga Massage?

“Feel the presence of their breath and of yours, feel the weight of their body and of yours, acknowledge the beauty of the soul, unify all and move and dance. Ever in ease, with no judgments, for the good of all our brothers and sisters”. Dayalu

History of Thai Massage
Traditional Thai massage dates back to some 2500 years ago in India, in times of Ayurvedic and Yogic healing. It was brought over to Thailand as a medical practice by a famous Indian doctor “Jivaka Kumar Baccha”, the Buddha’s personal physician and doctor of the monks in the monasteries of that time. He is now known as the “father of medicine” throughout Thailand and homage is given to him by all serious practitioners of Thai massage. Most of the literature of this ancient healing technique was destroyed in the Burmese invasion of Thailand, however elaborate carvings and drawings in the famous Wat Po temple of Bangkok give testimony to its existence and technique.

Spirit of Thai massage
It is, however, the teaching and sharing from generation to generation and from master to student that has made this massage the intuitive healing art that it is. Along with herbal medicine, nutrition and spiritual practice, Thai massage makes up the core of traditional Thai medicine and is for this reason that the treatment is more of a spiritual practice, closely connected with the teachings of the Buddha. The application of Metta (loving kindness) and Vipassana (meditation of insight) enables both the giver and receiver to open energy channels and be healed.

Principles of Thai massage
Thai massage is based on the energy flow (prana or chi) or invisible life force which pulsates and flows around our bodies. This life force is said to circulate around 72,000 energy lines within the body, similar to the meridians of Chinese medicine or the Ayurvedic channels. When there are blockages in this energy flow sickness or disease arise and in applying Thai massage techniques these blockages can be cleared and heal us of our ailments.

Techniques of Thai massage
With the application of rhythmic pressure on certain points and energy lines in the body, the yogic stretching of muscles and joint manipulation, blockages can be released and the energy restored to its natural flow. By using body weight, correct posture and the hands, thumbs, elbows, knees, feet and forearms the massage is able to go deep into the internal organs and soft tissue. Because this massage is working on the different body layers (koshas) the release works on an emotional, energectic and physical level.

Benefits of Thai massage
The real goal of any Thai massage therapist is to awaken the spiritual flame within the receiver, allowing him to connect with his higher self and be released from fear and pain. The massage is also about restoring the body’s natural balance and well-being which can often leave people feeling extremely drained and sleepy or invigorated and energetic, depending on what their body needs. By opening up the body and enhancing the natural flow of energy, Thai massage is able to:

alleviate common conditions such as lower back pain, headache, arthritis, digestive difficulties, menstrual cramps, the menopause

release built-up tension (knots) in muscles

increase general flexibility and joint mobility

act as a lymphatic cleanser

eliminate toxins in the system

stimulate internal organs

improve neurological functioning

increase vitality

relieve tension and stress-related diseases

help heal old injuries

help strengthen the immune system

release emotional blockages

induce deep relaxation

calm the mind

General Treatment
A treatment can last anything from 90 minutes to three hours depending on what your body is communicating. It takes place on the floor (using a mat) and the receiver wears lose, comfortable clothing. On our courses we give enough material for a four hour massage, which students must then condense into an average two-hour massage. We use hot compress, oils and herbal remedies where needed in our treatments. For treatments, please email or call us.

Our Courses
We offer weekend courses and retreats (usually a 12 days intensive) for both beginners and advanced practitioners. Both are certified by the “International Society of Thai Yoga Massage”, founded by The Sunshine Network and follow-up courses in anatomy and physiology are available with our associate school in London.