(updated: 2/2/05)
What is Thai massage?
The roots of Thai massage have been traced back ~3000 years to the Ayurvedic traditions of India. Thai massage is based on the principle, also found in Chinese medicine, that good health and body functioning happen when the body’s natural energies flow freely without blockage. These energies are called “Qi” in Chinese medicine and “Prana” in Ayurvedic tradition.
Known as “passive yoga,” Thai massage uses compression, deep pressing on Sen or acupoint meridians, and yoga-like stretching to restore balance and flow to the Qi/Prana energies. Deep breathing and a spiritual and meditative mindset contribute to the healing benefits of Thai massage.
I customize a massage routine for each individual client, based on their needs and tolerances. A typical routine will incorporate elements of Thai massage as well as techniques that are better known as Shiatsu, Reiki, and Swedish massage modalities. Thai massage, like any stretching, can be as gentle as needed. However if you are one of those people for which it is not appropriate or preferred, I can certainly accommodate your needs with more traditional, Swedish-style massage.
Thai massage is done fully-clothed, wearing loose-fitting, exercise, or yoga-type outfits that will allow unrestricted movement and stretching of major limbs and joints. Even if you are familiar with "traditional" massage, which in the Western world usually means Swedish style stroking, you will find that the benefits of Thai massage are unlike anything you may have experienced.