This ancient holistic healing system finds its origins in Indian Ayurvedic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Japanese Shiatsu, as well as indigenous Thai healing practices. The benefits of Thai Massage are wide-ranging.
- Relieves headaches, neck and back pain
- Increases flexibility and range of motion
- Speeds recovery from injuries
- Enhances athletic performance
- Kicks starts stamina
- Boosts the immune system
- Supports detoxification
- Improves digestion and absorption of nutrients
- Instills a profound sense of well-being
Thai Massage works the muscles, joints, connective tissue, and energy meridians. During a massage, passive stretches and gentle pressure along energy lines restore balance, release tension, and awaken the body’s innate self-healing abilities. Its flowing, rhythmic motions are both calming and invigorating. This type of massage is ideal for those craving long, slow, deep stretching.
During a treatment, clients lie on a comfortable floor mat wearing loose clothing. The practitioner uses a combination of soft, firm, or strong touch techniques (palms, thumbs, knuckles, forearms, elbows, knees, shins, and feet) to rock, press, knead, stretch and compress the client’s body, creating a unique healing experience.
Deepen the healing effects by adding herbal heat therapy to a session. Steaming grapefruit-sized compresses filled with lemongrass, eucalyptus, ginger, lime and cinnamon are applied to the muscles, joints and energy lines. Tension melts away. The delicate bouquet delights the senses while it supports respiratory function. As well, circulation increases, which helps tissues rebuild rapidly and flush out toxins.
Traditional Thai Massage was originally practiced in Buddhist temples, or “wats,” where both the spiritual and physical health of followers were cared for. As such, Thai Massage was revered as a sacred ritual. The “Four Divine States of Consciousness” continue to influence and shape the approach of practitioners:
- Metta The desire to make others happy and the ability to show loving kindness.
- Karuna Compassion for all who suffer and a desire to ease their sufferings.
- Mudita Rejoicing with those who have good fortune and never feeling envy.
- Upekkha Regarding one’s fellows without prejudice or preference.
