This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Intro to Thai Massage

Intro to Thai Massage: (Lazy Man's Yoga) Get a taste of this sacred healing art in this two hour hands on workshop.

What is Thai Massage?

Thai massage is one of the ancient healing arts of traditional Thai medicine (along with herbal medicine and spiritual meditation). It is a full-body massage, performed on a floor mat, with both parties in loose, comfortable clothes. It incorporates t’ai chi moves, rhythmic motion, palming and thumbing along energy lines (sen lines), gentle stretching and the conscious use of breath. The practitioner uses hands, feet, arms and legs to guide the recipient into various yoga postures, while remaining focused on their own body-center. This combination of movements and focused awareness creates a slow, flowing “dance” around the recipient’s body.

Though very dynamic, Thai massage is deeply relaxing, enabling the body and mind to rebalance naturally. As with any yoga practice, blood and lymph circulation are increased and internal organs are stimulated, all helping to strengthen the immune system, rebalance the endocrine system and clear toxins from the body. In addition, the variety of stretching and joint isolation exercises helps to increase joint mobility and flexibility. Since the technique respects each person’s body type and level of flexibility, Thai massage is ideal for many individuals.