Traditional Thai Massage
Thai Massage is an ancient form of healing, that was once performed by Buddhist monks in their temples. It originated over 2500 years ago and is part of a unique tradition and is a strong element of the culture in Thailand. The Northern Method of Thai Massage is referred to as Nuad Bo Rarn, directly translating to Nuad - meaning "massage" and Rarn - meaning something that is ancient, sacred and revered. It is typically taught at the ITM Institute of Thai Massage in Chiang Mai, Thailand, or by a certified instructor trained at ITM.
Thai Massage is performed on a mat on the floor, overtop of clothing without the use of oil. It's techniques combine stretching, acupressure, reflexology, and fluid yoga-like movements. The Practitioner uses their hands, forearms, knees and feet to stretch and massage. Traditional Thai Massage has roots in India and Southeast Asia, and a large part is based on energy lines known as 'Sen'. The theory behind the Sen lines is comparible to that of the energy lines in Ayurvedic medicine, or the meridians in Chinese medicine like acupuncture. Thai people believe that pain and illness can be, at least in part, attributed to a blockage in energy flow. Through pressure from the palms, thumbs, fingers, elbows, and feet, energy is allowed to flow more freely, helping relieve pain, tension, and discomfort. Another key point in Thai Massage is passive yoga-type stretching, that is both beneficial for reaching a relaxing state of mind and for relieving pain and discomfort. These stretching elements can greatly increase flexibility in the soft tissues and range of motion in the joints. Reflexology points on the hands, feet, ears and face are practiced in Thai Massage, which can help aid in organ function and overall health. The result can be both relaxing and stimulating.
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A "golden" Buddha located at Wat Pho in
Bangkok, Thailand. 'Wat' meaning temple. |
Benefits of Thai Massage: - relieves stress and decreases pain - can help stimulate internal organs - improves range of motion and flexibility - stimulates the nervous system - promotes deep relaxation - improves circulation of blood and lymph - relieves muscle tension and increases joint mobility - helps achieve balance in the body's energy flow - strengthens the immune system and enhances metabolism - may aid in reducing blood pressure and heart rate - promotes healthy posture - helps increase muscle strength |
Cautions for Thai Massage: - Arthritis/Joint injuries - some movements may be limited or not at all possible depending on the degree of joint damage - Pregnancy - energy work is contraindicated, and some positions or movements may not be possible - Cancer - any amount of massage may be contraindicated in later stages of cancer - High Blood Pressure - elevation of the legs above the heart is contraindicated with elevated blood pressure (considered to be >140/90) - Acute illness/Fever - massage is contraindicated during acute illnesses (with or without a fever present), such as colds, the flu, infections, etc. |
How to prepare for your Thai Massage
1. Wear comfortable clothing. Something you can move freely in, like leggings, yoga pants, sweat pants or loose pyjama bottoms (please no shorts). Light weight tops like a t-shirt or tank top.
2. No jewellery. Please remove all jewellery before the treatment begins.
3. Please no lotion or oil based products, especially on the hands and feet.
4. Eat light. Do not eat a heavy meal before receiving Thai Massage, however this does not mean that you should avoid eating prior to your appointment.
5. Please complete our Patient History and Consent forms, and make sure to ask any questions that you may have.
2. No jewellery. Please remove all jewellery before the treatment begins.
3. Please no lotion or oil based products, especially on the hands and feet.
4. Eat light. Do not eat a heavy meal before receiving Thai Massage, however this does not mean that you should avoid eating prior to your appointment.
5. Please complete our Patient History and Consent forms, and make sure to ask any questions that you may have.
Treatments are payable by cash, cheque or e-transfer at the time of your appointment.