Definition

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Thai massage as it is most commonly called, also known as Nuad Phaen Boran in its traditional medical form, though its formal name is merely Nuat Thai, is a traditional method of massage that comes from the country of Thailand.

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Practice

 

Traditional Thai massage uses no oils or lotions. The client wears loose, comfortable clothing and lies on a mat or firm mattress on the floor and remains clothed during a treatment. There is constant body contact between the therapist and client, but rather than rubbing on muscles, the body is compressed, pulled, stretched and rocked.

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Description 

 

Thai massage looks like a cross between acupressure, yoga, and Zen shiatsu and is inspired by Buddhist teachings. A full Thai massage session typically lasts two hours or more and consists of a technique that uses slow, rhythmic compressions and stretches along the body's energy lines, also called Sen in Thai. It concentrates on applying pressure along 10 of the most important Sen using the palms of the hands, thumbs, elbows, and feet. The effort from the therapist works to free tension within the body. Therapists also position the body into yoga-like poses and gently rock the body to more deeply open joints and facilitate limbering. 

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Benefits

 

The benefits of Thai massage are numerous with the most predominant being the maintenance of good health and its ability to treat a wide spectrum of physical concerns. Traditional Thai massage is also well known for its ability to clear the energy pathways.
 

The following are some of the benefits of Traditional Thai Massage.

• Increases flexibility and range of movement

• Eliminates muscle pain and muscle spasms

• Improves postural alignment

• Calms the nervous system and promotes a deep sense of relaxation

• Increased energy level

• Allows for a significant release of deep, emotional distress

• Stimulates blood circulation and lymph drainage

• Relieves fatigue, swollen limbs, painful joints, and headaches