Based on a combination of influences from India, China, and indigenous Thai traditions, this art form has been handed down through the generations mostly via oral tradition, and is practised today across Thailand in various forms.
A complete Thai Massage incorporates a combination of acupressure and yoga-like stretching. Thai massage is different from many Western forms. For traditional Thai massage there is no oil used and the client lies on a mattress on the floor completely clothed throughout the session. It is often described as having someone "do yoga to you" and is directly related to yogic principles originating in India. It is also in many ways similar to Chinese massage techniques such as shiatsu and reflexology insofar as it is based on the theory of the flow of energy along lines or channels that run throughout the body.
When treating you I am guided by a network of 72,000 sen (a thai word meaning "pathways" or "lines" throughout the body. Accupressure points are found along these sen, which I use to stimulate or relax the body's energy (lom), affecting the patient's mind and body and promoting the natural healing process.
Thai Massage can be varied to suit a wide range of physical needs, is suitable for clients of all ages and abilities, and can compliment any level of exercise or activity. Clinical trials have shown that Thai Massage can prevent bone degeneration, decrease stress, treat back pain, and contribute to psychological well being. Thai massage is ideal for those who find themselves sore and tired from overexertion in work or sports, or from arthritis or other disorders affecting mobility. Through stimulating the body's energy and natural healing process it can be a valuable complimentary therapy alongside virtually any other form of treatment.
I need a minimum of 1.5 hours to do give a good traditional Thai Massage.