Thai massage is based on the belief that all disease is due to an imbalance of the body's energy. Its goal is to promote balance and by so doing it assists in the healing of the entire person. To do this, the Thai masseurist uses several techniques.
The first is the application of pressure by leaning into the area being treated. This pressure is less intense than that used in some other forms of massage and more like the pressure used in shiatsu. Also like shiatsu, Thai massage uses pressure along energy channels. (called "sen" in Thailand, but more commonly known as meridians - which is what they are called in Chinese medicine). The major difference between the two is that Thai massage treats these channels in both directions, while shiatsu moves in only one direction.
Reflexology is included in a Thai massage session. Reflexology is based on the belief that points on the feet can be used to treat the entire body. There is a lot of attention paid to the feet and legs in Thai massage, because getting energy moving in these areas helps to better connect the client to the earth, causing them to be more "grounded".
Another technique used is blood stopping. This is achieved by putting pressure on a major artery in the arm or leg for an extended period of time - up to about a minute. The theory behind this technique is that cutting off a major source of circulation to an area will initially result in increased pressure, which will cause the heart muscle to slow its contractions in order to bring the pressure down. When the pressure on the artery is released a fresh supply of blood rushes into the area, causing it to relax more deeply. This technique, however, is not used on anyone with heart or circulatory problems or with diabetes.
Physical Benefits of Thai Massage
• Helps detoxify the body and boosts the immune system
• Increases blood circulation and lowers blood pressure
• Relaxes and increases flexibility and mobility in the muscles
• Improves breathing
• Corrects body alignments, Improves posture, and dissolves energy blockages
• Improves athletic performance
• Eases arthritis and back pain,
• Tones the body, strengthens joints and fights diseases, including joint problems
• Boosts the immune system and alleviates degenerative diseases which slows the aging process
Mental Benefits of Thai Massage
• Improves your outlook towards life; builds your emotional balance
• Helps with your concentration and creativity
• Helps you gain mental clarity
Psychological effects of Thai Massage
• Reduces and relieves stress and anxiety
• Helps you boost your inner energy levels
• Develops discipline and self-control
• Raises your energy level and stamina
• Builds internal power and creates confidence