MASSAGE THERAPY

Traditional Thai Massage is also known as "Nuad Boran" by the people of Thailand. Nuad Boran literally means "ancient massage" and it has a history that goes back to the time of the Buddha, when this form of treating the body spread across Thailand along with the teachings of the Buddha. But you don't have to be a Buddhist, or be from Thailand, to enjoy Traditional Thai Massage!

In Traditional Thai Massage, you are fully clothed in loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. Additionally, this massage is performed on a mat on the floor, and no oil or lotion is normally applied. The treatment consists of passive, yoga-like stretches, with rhythmic compression along specific "Sen" energy lines and muscles in the body. We also make the use of precise acupressure points along these "Sen" lines. The Thai massage treatment flows beautifully along the body with profound healing effects.

The intention of the treatment is to open up the body and free it of restrictions. This not only brings new vitality to tight or tired muscles, but the Thai treatment also balances the life force energy, and allows it to move more freely in the body. Thai Massage can be a very relaxing treatment, or it's effects can be therapeutically corrective when more pressure is applied. It all depends on your needs and desires. (Read more...)

I had been practicing Thai Massage for a number of years, but when I studied Traditional Thai Massage in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand for thirty days in the summer of 2008, my treatment dramatically improved! I spent two days of training at the Loi Kroh Thai massage school. I spent seven days training with Homprang Chaleekanha and one of her assistants at their amazing center, Baan Hom Samunphrai. And I received fourteen days of advanced training with Pichest Boonthumme. You can read about some of my experiences on my Thai Blog.

More recently, I attended a Traditional Thai Massage, five day workshop with Richard Gold at the Esalen Institute, August 9-14, 2009.

You can learn more about Traditional Thai Massage history, and read what Pichest has to say about Nuad Boran, the Sen Sib lines, and the benefits of Nuad Boran, or Traditional Thai Massage.