What is Thai yoga massage?
The origins of Thai massage come from Indian and Buddhist traditions, including Ayurveda and yoga science of the mind and body connection. Meanwhile, it received its name as Thai massage, or Nuad Boran in Thailand, because it is in Thailand where the practice has mainly been preserved.
As per tradition massages are done fully clothed and on a mat on the ground. The therapist works through static and dynamic movements with a focus on working energy lines from the feet to the head. It includes a combination of compression and acupressure and “rocking” or dynamic movement to release areas of stagnation and free the flow of energy in the body. There are many physical benefits, along with bringing renewed mental, emotional and energetic balance.
Physical benefits:
- Removes toxins from accumulated areas
- Encourages free flow of blood and regulate blood pressure
- Improves posture and corrects body-misalignements
- Helps relieve muscle tension and stiffness
- Tones internal organs
- Provides deep rest for the body
- Increases or rebalances energy
Mental and psychological benefits:
- Helps relieve stress and aid relaxation
- Fosters peace of mind
- Promotes a relaxed state of mental alertness
- Clears the mind and aids in mental clarity
- Develops self-awareness of the mind and body connection
- Helps for insomnia and reducing fatigue
Emotional benefits:
- Fosters a feeling of well-being
- Satisfies needs for caring nurturing touch
- Possible “letting go” or release of stuck emotions
- Reminds the body / mind of feelings of deep connection
Meditation
Equally important, there is a meditative quality to Thai massage. The aim is to create a sacred and shared space that brings metta (loving kindness), acceptance, and safety into the room. This deepens the therapeutic experience as this quality works to profoundly relax the nervous system and allows a safe and nurturing environment for the body to express and let go. As we encourage a deep state of relaxation through stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, the body is also more open to receive deep pressure and movement from the therapist. As well, the body is able to physically continue the self-healing process after the treatment.
The Sacred Dance
Equally important, the present needs and state of the client are always taken into consideration. So each massage has a tendency to look different from the last. Each session is structured to first assist the current energy blocks or problematic areas, whether this is physical or energetic. It allows for a flow. Thus, Thai yoga massage is often referred to as a sacred dance between the giver and receiver. It is a creative healing art form that reflects what is in the present moment.
Testimonials
“Erica’s treatment helped me a lot. Her talent is remarkable… She is able to read the body very accurately. It never hurt and I immediately felt tremendous relief. My pain was gone for a few hours/days.”
– Ascan Roosen, Germany“It was amazing! Very relaxing, Erica is very sweet and she works with love.”
– Susana Micaelo, Portugal“Erica’s gifted at Thai massage. I felt great after, a little sore, but good, like I’d done a strong [yoga] practice.”
– John Hanrahan, Ireland
How to prepare for a treatment
- Treatments are ideally 1.5 – 2 hours in length. Be aware to give yourself time and space for yourself to come and leave your treatment in a relaxed manner.
- Come wearing loose, comfortable clothes, since clothes remain on during the massage. Bring an extra light layer and pair of socks to keep warm.
- Remember, it is useful to refrain from eating a large or heavy meal within a couple hours of your session.
- As well, please inform me of any health conditions or concerns as soon as possible. Even though we will have space to discuss more at your treatment, any information beforehand helps me to plan your session better.
To read more details from the Thai Healing Alliance about what to expect during and after a treatment, please click here.
To reserve your space immediately, book your appointment through the button below. You can also contact me directly here.
Pricing options
It is highly recommend to receive a 90 minute treatment in Thai massage. This allows enough time for the body to deeply relax and integrate more therapeutic work. In the same respect, it is beneficial to come for a series of treatments. Therefore, if you are a first time customer and/or feel hesitant with the cost, please speak to me about possibilities for these treatments to be more accessible for you.
Video courtesy of Vida Macro