Thai Massage
General Information
Thai Massage is the Western term for therapies based on those taught in the country of Thailand. Thai names for this therapy include Nuad Phaen Boran and Phaen Boran Ráksãa Thaang Nûat. As with the term Swedish Massage, the authenticity and specifics of a Thai Massage vary depending on how, where, by whom and for how long a practitioner was taught. Within Thailand it is possible to learn Thai massage from a number of temples, schools, hospitals and training institutions. There are many short, introductory courses aimed at tourists and a number of longer, more thorough training programs.
Thai massage differs from Western massage in a number of ways. Firstly, it is heavily influenced by Buddhism and meditation with emphasis upon the four states of Love, Compassion, Joy and Equinimity. Secondly, there is a focus on the promoting the flow of energies or lom throughout the body. Thai massage is also carried out on the floor, usually on a thin mattress for comfort. The techniques involve more interaction and movement of both the client and the practitioner - some, more complex techniques involve carefully executed lifting, positioning, stretching and manipulation of the client's body. These techniques are aimed at freeing the connective tissue, musculature and skeletal components of the body whilst giving mind to the four states listed above. Sessions of Thai massage may often run for 2 to 3 hours depending on the practitioner and location.
What are the Qualifications of a Thai Massage Therapist
As the training varies so much, so do the qualifications and levels of certification for a practitioner of Thai massage. It is therefore very important to find out where your practitioner studied, and for how long. Alternatively, ensure that they are a member of a recognised association, as these associations usually have established levels of training required for recognition as a Thai massage therapist.
For Further Information...
For more information about Thai Massage, please visit:
- The Thai Healing Alliance
- The The Ancient Massage Foundation
- Health Traditions - Thai massage and cupping training