What is Traditional Thai Massage?
Traditional Thai Massage
Nuat Phaen Boran – The Ancient Manner of Massage.
It is reputed that traditional Thai massage has been developed by monks (*) since the time of Buddha – 2,500 years ago. It was developed as a healthy therapeutic treatment and is still taught and provided in many Buddhist temples today.
It is primarily aimed at prevention of problems; however, chronic pain of many kinds can be treated.
The Perfect Massage
Traditional Thai massage is usually performed fully clothed – normally light cotton ‘overalls’ are supplied and is normally performed on a mat on the floor. Thai massage should have a strong spiritual side for it – for both the client and the masseur! It is meditational in some respects.
It is good to arrive a few minutes early for a massage – allow at least five minutes to relax and, if you have practised meditation, some deep breathing exercises will help.
As taught in Buddhist temples your masseur will use her hands, elbows and feet to apply the massage. Traditional Thai Massage is a combination of deep tissue, acupressure and yoga (without you having to put the effort into the yoga moves).
It is quite an intimate massage – but do not confuse this with sensual massages you may have heard about from some of the more tourist oriented parts of Thailand. Traditional Thai massage has its roots in a spiritual tradition – its purpose is to heal a person physically, emotionally and spiritually.
The Benefits of Traditional Thai Massage
- Maintenance of muscle tone
- Internal organs are stimulated to function at their best capacity
- Muscle stiffness and pain are prevented
- Improved blood and lymph circulation
- Improvements in digestion, nutrient absorption and elimination of waste
- Mobility of joints and general flexibility can be greatly increased
(*) According to the Pāli Buddhist Canon, Jivaka was Buddha’s physician. He codified a healing system that combines acupressure, reflexology, and assisted yoga postures. Traditional Thai massage (Nuad Boran) is generally based on a combination of Indian and Chinese traditions of medicine. Jivaka is known today as “Father Doctor” in Thailand.
