Thai Yoga Massage

The Origins of Thai Yoga Massage

Thai Yoga Massage dates back to the time of Buddha and was developed more than 2000 years ago in Thailand. When Buddhist monks traveled from India to other parts of Asia and Thailand, they brought their medical practices and healing arts with them. This ancient healing art shares similarities with yoga, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Japanese Shiatsu; yet it is an art in and of itself and very different from the familiar forms of massage practised in North America today.

What is Thai Yoga Massage?

Thai Yoga Massage is a style of massage therapy where the practitioner actively stretches, and massages the body, and works on the client’s energy meridians. It incorporates yoga-like stretches, gentle rocking, breath work, and palming/thumbing along energy lines. It’s really like having yoga done to one’s body by another person.

Thai Yoga Massage draws on yoga, meditation and Ayurveda*. It is based on the belief that energy travels on pathways throughout the body and is stored in specific energy points. Through interaction with the muscular, circulatory, and nervous systems; Thai Yoga Massage frees the energy along the pathways and in the energy centres. This removes tension, facilitates physical, mental, and spiritual balance and enhances the body’s natural healing ability.

*Ayurveda is a system of traditional medicine native to India about 5000 years ago and practiced in many parts of the world now as a form of alternative medicine. In Sanskrit, the word means “life science”.

What Does Thai Yoga Massage Feel Like?

At the hands of a skilled Thai Massage practitioner, the client will experience a rhythmical workout that balances the body's need for movement and stretching. It is both a physical and an energetic treatment given with a gentle, warm, and reassuring touch. The recipient will leave feeling calm, free of muscular tension, energetically balanced, and feel a sense of well-being.

How is Thai Yoga Massage Performed?

A Thai Yoga Massage treatment is performed on a special mat in the client’s own comfortable clothes. No oils are used. Ranging from a soft, relaxing approach to a deep muscular workout; it is tailored to the unique needs and limitations of each client. Therefore, Thai Yoga massage is beneficial for everyone; regardless of age or flexibility.

Do I Need to Know Yoga?

Absolutely not! Thai Yoga Massage is geared toward people of all ages and fitness levels. In fact, from athletes to people in physical rehabilitation; all can benefit from the gentle guided motions of Thai Yoga Massage.

What Conditions Would Benefit?

Those people who suffer from neck stiffness, back pain, arthritis, and fibromyalgia would benefit greatly from Thai Yoga Massage.

Accredited Thai Yoga practitioners are trained to modify and in some circumstances, avoid massage for clients with specific health problems. Ask your Thai Yoga practitioner about your unique situation and he/she will dialogue with you on the potential risks and benefits to you.

Physical Benefits of Thai Massage
• stretches and tones muscles
• increases blood & lymphatic circulation
• releases muscular tension
• increases flexibility and joint mobility
• boosts the immune system
• facilitates detoxification
• balances the body energetically
• improves posture and balance
• increases energy levels

Mental and Emotional Benefits of Thai Massage
• provides a relaxed state
• reduces stress and anxiety
• clears and calms the mind
• supports emotional balance
• helps concentration and creativity
• assists confidence