About Thai massage & bodywork

Traditional Thai massage & bodywork, or Nuad Boran (ancient healing) in the Thai language, has been practiced for over two thousand years and is a practical application of loving kindness [metta].

While the influences of Tibetan, Indian and Chinese knowledge are evident in the Thai healing arts, the primary origins come from the practices and wisdom of the indigenous people from the geographical region today known as Thailand.

What to expect in a Thai bodywork session

Thai bodywork is usually given on a firm mat on the floor. The receiver wears comfortable clothes which allow free movement of the body (like clothes one would wear to a yoga class). Thai bodywork incorporates healing methods that are too numerous and complex to list on a single page, and every session will be different based on what will be the most effective for the receiver in that given moment. Often there is a combination of deep compression, acupressure, range of movement, stretching and assisted yoga postures. Sometimes warming liniments, salves or herbal compresses are applied. The practitioner uses thumbs, palms, forearms, knees and feet to create a dance of movement on the body of the recipient. In this process, joints are opened, fascia, muscles and tendons are nurtured and internal organs are toned. It is a meditative experience for both client and practitioner. The overall effect is one of deep relaxation, rejuvenation and physical and mental well being.

Thai bodywork can be used to address an infinite number of complaints/wishes. Some common ones I work with:

• injury rehabilitation
• chronic pain
• range of movement restrictions
• breathing restrictions
• improve proprioceptive and interoceptive awareness
• enhance athletic performance
• stress reduction
• motor vehicle accident injuries
• cultivate a sense of well being and ease in the body, mind and spirit