If you're interested in traditional Thai massage, you'll be intrigued to learn that the principles behind this unique form of massage therapy are based in Asian energy (chi) flow balancing theories that form the foundation of traditional Asian medicine. Unlike Swedish massage or deep tissue massage, which is found in sports massage or neuromuscular massage, Thai massage training focuses less on the manipulation of the deep tissues and more on stimulation of pressure points and use of yoga asana to open the flow of chi. Thai massage is a completely different experience from a Swedish massage.
Redirection of Chi
Thai medicine is based on the principle that chi-your life energy force-flows through your body along specific meridians, or channels, that run throughout your body on pre-determined paths. This energy flow can become blocked or misdirected due to a variety of reasons, causing illness and physical discomfort. Traditional Thai massage uses a combination of yoga poses and acupressure to redirect the flow of chi so it is flowing properly again, restoring health to the body.
Acupressure
Acupressure is similar to acupuncture in that it stimulates specific pressure points on the body in an effort to redirect chi. However, acupressure does not use needles to stimulate these pressure points. The Thai massage therapist will instead use his or her fingers, knuckles, palms, forearms and elbows to apply pressure to the pressure points. The pressure will be held for extended periods of time, until the therapist feels the body responding appropriately. While this can be uncomfortable, it is usually a pleasant sensation. This is done through your clothing, something that appeals greatly to people who like massage but who do not feel comfortable removing clothing.
Stretching
Sometimes a pressure point is best manipulated when the body is stretched into a particular position. Yoga asana (positions) are used to encourage the proper flow of chi or to allow the massage therapist access to a specific pressure point.
 | Thai massage is one of the three components of Traditional Thai Medicine and a flowing form of massage that incorporates a variety of healing techniques including acupressure, reflexology, hatha yoga, rocking and meditation. |
 | Proponents say that you should try Thai Yoga massage because it best helps redirect your chi so that it is flowing properly. The benefits will impact your waking and resting hours. |
Thai massage is increasing becoming popular more people look for an alternative therapy to relief their stressful lifestyle. Developed from a form of massage originated in India more than 2,500 years ago, Thai massage incorporates yoga and massage into a session not only to relief patients from stress, also to re-align the body along its Sen lines - much associated with the Chi Channels of Chinese massage and the Nadis from the Indian method - to benefit the body as a whole. |
Yogassage is relatively new in the western world but catching on fast. This unique massage therapy combines massage with yoga positions to provide the best benefits of both to your body. Traditionally practised in Thailand for over 2,500 years, it is quickly gaining popularity in the Western world as people search for more natural ways to stay healthy. |
Thai massage techniques for better sleep can not only leave you resting more soundly, but also improving your overall quality of life. |
