In the west it is often referred to as Thai Yoga Massage because many of the stretches and movement of the body are closely aligned with Yoga postures. This makes sense because this ancient modality has been practiced in Thailand for centuries and is based on Ayurvedic medicine and yoga. Like the Taoist masters whose lineage can be traced back to Lao Tse, Thai Massage has an unbroken chain of masters traced to Jivaka Kharmapaj, Father Doctor Shivago. There are two main lineages, Northern Style and Southern style referred to as “same same” but different. Traditionally before a session begins, prayers would be recited acknowledging the lineage of Father Doctor Shivago  along with inciting the healing Goddess to assist the therapist. Thailand being a Buddhist country, the philosophies of Buddhism are integral to the practice as well through acknowledgement of Metta, Karuna, Mudita and Upekka.

Like Qigong Meridian Therapy, Shiatsu and Reflexology, Thai Massage is based on the theory of energy pathways through which energy, prana, flows. These pathways are referred to as “SEN” which make up an intricate network of 72,000! Similar in concept to the Chinese meridians, they do not correlate. They begin in the navel and end in the extremities and do not relate to a single organ; any organ that falls along its path can be treated by the meridian. In Thailand, this is considered energy-work and not body-work because the focus is on the intricate network of energy pathways, although flexibility, muscle tone and  circulation are improved as well.

Traditionally in Thailand Thai massage is medicine as well as therapy, herbal compresses are often used. In the west the use of herbal compresses is not so common, but there are still many benefits to the massage. It is executed through rhythmic compressions with a combination of acupressure, meridian work and yoga-like stretches. Compressions are executed through the hand, feet and thumbs of the therapist, the entire body is used.  It complements any exercise routine and can be useful for physical therapy to aid flexibility, muscle repair and muscular strength. It is helpful for arthritis, encourages lymphatic drainage, thus helping the immune system. There are many benefits; all stemming from the body, mind spirit energetic connection. Traditionally a session would last for three hours. In the west a normal session lasts for 90 minutes. No less than 90 minutes is recommended to have a thorough session.

A Thai Massage is executed on the floor on a cotton mat. Yoga like comfortable clothing is recommended. It is important to get a full health assessment of the client.  This helps the therapist know how to address the session. For example: age, flexibility, chronic injuries, back pain, heart and/or circulation problems, stress/anxiety, low energy, menstruation are a few conditions a therapist needs to know. Pregnancy is contraindicated unless the therapist is trained specifically for this condition. Like any bodywork, medical conditions should not forgo treatment and assessment from a qualified medical professional.

I studied with Rick Haesche, who teaches and practices in Hartford Connecticut.