Thai Table Massage - myofunctional movement + assisted stretching
Thai Massage uses a variety of yoga-like stretching positions that is believed to cause therapeutic effects. It is based on principles of correcting the energy balance through the body. The basic principle of Thai Massage is to start with the extremities of the body (laterally), work towards the core of the body (medially), and then back to the extremities. This ensures the flow of energy though the energy channels called meridians, and also improve blood circulation throughout the body.
Thai Massage is completely customized to meet your needs at the flexibility level your body is currently at. Many choose this modality specifically to increase elasticity of their muscles and therefore improve posture. Ultimately, Thai Massage can be an integral part of your wellness plan, and overall health. A calm mind, and a balanced body that is free from pain leads to the ability to appreciate life to the fullest!
This modality is not currently offered as a stand-alone treatment. However, many of the elements of Thai massage are integrated into the techniques used in Anne's massage treatments.
What is Thai Massage?
Thai Massage is very different from the other massage therapies that usually involve tissue manipulation. It is a dry massage therapy and does not use any oils or lotion. Instead it is performed using deep compressing, rhythmic pressing, and stretching actions. The pressure, tension, and motion or vibration movements used during massage improve regional blood circulation.
It is performed using different body parts such as palm, thumb, fingers, forearm, elbow or even feet. This ancient form of massage is used to positively affect the musculoskeletal system, as well as the internal organs and circulation, while providing deep relaxation and stress release.
Although traditionally done on a large mat on the floor, this modality has been adapted for a low massage table.
What does Thai Table Massage look like?
You come dressed in light, loose clothing that is comfortable and easy to move in. Anne performs this fully clothed massage on top of the massage table, using bolsters, pillows and blankets for comfort and support.
She will guide you through a combination of rocking and twisting, joint and spine mobilizations, acupressure and assisted / passive stretches, while using her hands, feet, arms and legs to gently massage muscles and joints. It involves gentle stretching and twisting, rhythmic compression along muscles and their attachment points, applying acupressure and various soft tissue massage techniques.
With Anne using her body weight instead of strength, and a steady and rhythm, Thai Massage can look and feel like a graceful dance between giver and receiver. A session lasts 60-75 minutes.
Benefits of Thai Massage
The benefits of Thai Table Massage are numerous. By freeing tension in your muscles and joints, this treatment can improve posture, breathing, flexibility, digestion and circulation. Muscles are stretched, inner organs are toned and emotional and nervous tension are reduced. A deep sense of peace and deep relaxation is often experienced during and after a treatment.
Although the main emphasis is usually on health prevention, it can also be of great therapeutic benefit for a range of specific problems and conditions:
Relaxes muscles and relieves pain: The combination of stretching, movement and gentle massage relaxes and lengthens tight muscles. It also may reduce the stiffness or knots in muscle that cause pain.
Increases muscle flexibility: The movements and postures stretch the muscle to the sustainable point. This improves the muscle tone and flexibility.
Improves joint motions: The stretching action improves the movement of fluids (such as lymph, synovial and cerebrospinal) in the space between joints, relieving pain in the area.
Improves blood and lymphatic circulation
Boosts immunity: Improved blood circulation and lymphatic movement helps to remove the waste and toxins from the body. This in turn, supports the immune system.
Promotes mental relaxation: Relaxes body and mind helping to release emotional or mental stress
Reduces fatigue and sleep problems: Massage and stretching can effectively reduce body soreness and fatigue. Naturally soothing to the mind and body, Thai Massage helps you to sleep better and may alleviate disturbed sleep patterns.
History
Thai Massage is an ancient therapy that has been practiced in Thailand for thousands of years. It is believed that Thai Massage was developed more than 2500 years ago by Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha (Shivago Kompara) a friend to the Buddha who had tremendous knowledge of medicine. Shivago is believed by most Thai healers to be the inventor of Thai traditional medicine.
The tradition of Thai medicine is believed to have been developed at the royal court and shows to have a great influence from the Ayurvedic tradition from India. Although the evolution of techniques and practices has happened in Thailand, the origin of Thai Massage can be traced to India. Its yoga philosophy is another reason to believe that this therapy has its roots in Ancient India.
Through the work with a variety of Indian doctors it is now an accepted form of alternative medicine.
