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THAI MASSAGE FACTFILE

Originating from a yoga philosophy, Thai (yoga) massage focuses primarily on the ‘Prana’, or life force energy, in the body by working on invisible energy lines called the ‘Ten Sen’.  The Ten Sen constitute part of the ‘Prana Nadis’; a network of energy lines running through the body. It is this network that provides the body with the vitality it needs to work efficiently.  The source of this energy is taken from the water and food we consume and the air we breathe.  A blockage in any line prevents energy flow leading to mental, physical and spiritual imbalances, which then manifest in the form of disease, aches and discomfort.

Thai Massage therapy works to stimulate, open and balance the flow of energy through the sen lines to assist the body in its natural self-healing process. The sen lines are treated by recurring stimulation and the joints are activated and supported by passive stretches. The massage unfolds like a continuous and rhythmic dance. Within Buddhist teachings, thai massage embodies the four states of mind; compassion, vicarious joy, equanimity and loving kindness.  These teachings are by tradition practiced and taught to embrace these states of mind within this massage therapy.  As a result the therapy is often referred to as 'meditation in movement'. When this is experienced it can be a sense of complete calm, vividness and freedom. 

Thai massage combines with other forms of treatments including acupressure, reflexology, applied yoga stretches and medicinal herbs.

IS THAI MASSAGE THE RIGHT THERAPY FOR YOU?

Thai Massage may benefit the following physical and mental conditions:

Abdominal Pain                   Allergies                       Asthma                       Anxiety                       Arthritis (& Rheumatoid)               Back Pain                       Bladder/Kidney Problems           Bronchitis                       Chemotherapy (Adverse Reactions)       Childhood Illnesses               Chronic Fatigue Syndrome           Chronic Pain                   Colds/Flu                       Constipation                   Depression                       Diarrhoea                       Digestive Disorders               Dizziness                       Frozen Shoulder                   Headaches/Migraines

Heart problems Hypertension/Hypotension Immune System Disorders Infertility Insomnia Joint problems Menopausal Symptoms Muscle Stiffness/Spasms Neck Pain/Stiffness Paralysis/Numbness Sciatica Sinusitis Skin Disorders Sprains/Strains Stress – Emotional/Physical Tendonitis Ulcers Vision Problems Whiplash Withdrawal Symptoms

Sessions typically last between 1 and 2 hours.  Before treatment, your therapist will ask you about your medical history along with other relevant health and lifestyle details.  Your massage will take place in a warm relaxing environment and is usually performed in silence to allow you time to focus and reflect. Treatment is carried out on the floor so expect to lie fully dressed on a pad or light mattress on the ground. This set up allows the practitioner to access the body more effectively.

A complete Thai body massage, begins at the feet, the muscles are warmed with the use of a compression technique.  The practitioner then applies gentle pressure using their palms, thumbs, forearms, elbows, knees, and feet aiming to release the tension in your body by opening up the energy channels or ‘sen lines’.  This process mirrors techniques used in trigger point therapy whereby pressure is sustained for 30 secs and then released in order to boost circulation. Throughout the massage a variety of positions can be used, the client may lay on their back, front, side or in a sitting position. In addition, joints are moved through their full range of motion to increase flexibility and help release deep and superficial tensions, similar to methods used in yoga.

A mini head massage usually concludes the massage session, which is very similar to an Indian head massage.  To bring your thoughts and consciousness into the here and now, the therapist will close your ears with their fingers momentarily and then release them. At the end of the session, it is common for people to have a sense of renewed energy and relaxation, with a complete sensation of body awareness.

The therapist will advise you to drink plenty of water afterwards.  Thai foot massage complements Traditional Thai massage very well as it stimulates the internal organs.

FINDING A QUALIFIED MASSAGE THERAPIST

Most people find Thai Massage Therapy deeply relaxing and enjoy the tension it releases throughout the body.  It is also extremely safe when carried out by a qualified therapist.  It is wise to carry out some research and select a therapist who is either a member of, or accredited by, an association or professional body such as the Massage Association of New Zealand (MNZ).  Thai Massage Therapists are obligated to a code of ethics and procedure that determines the therapy is carried out in a suitable and safe environment.  These regulations also guarantee a specialist who has undergone certifiable training and receives professional upskilling.

The Wellness Directory provides a ready-made referral list of certified Practitioners within your region.  We fully encourage you to do some independent research by checking out individual credentials, i.e. experience, training, qualifications, relevant client feedback and so forth.

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