By Lita Stone
Thai Massage, the traditional form of massage therapy used in Thailand is rapidly becoming a popular form of massage in the United States. A new career direction for many Massage Therapists, it is a deeply relaxing style, done on a mat on the floor, rather than a massage table.
Schools teaching Thai Massage are increasing, especially in California. For someone with an adventurous spirit though, it is interesting to note that it can often prove to be cheaper to fly to Thailand and attend a school, in comparison to taking a training at home. The main cost would be flying there, then the schools there, as well as living expenses can be quite inexpensive! This has become a popular way to learn Thai Massage and get a wonderful vacation and experience at the same time! I would recommend exploring the schools in the more rural Northern Thailand.
Thai Massage, called Nuad Phaen Boran, or Ancient Massage in Thailand originates from the time of Buddha. When Buddhism reached Thailand in the 3rd or 2nd century BC, temples were built with adjacent dispensaries and medical schools as an integral part of the religious system. Massage and other healing arts were taught and applied in the monasteries and within the family, passed down orally from teacher to student.
Generally Thai Massage is done in loose comfortable clothing on a mat or pad on the floor. Techniques similar to Shiatsu and Acupressure Massage are used along with passive stretches. Often given the name Yoga massage because much of the treatment is focused on stretching the entire body, as is yoga. Similarly to Shiatsu, acupressure and yoga, the clients core energy is stimulated and rebalanced, enhancing greater health and well being.
Thai Massage works on the major meridians, or energy flows, which run throughout the human body. It aims to harmonize the body, to loosen and release blocks, and to feed deficiencies along the energy lines. Energy blocks or congested areas are released and the prana, or the core energy of the body can flow freely again, feeding and nourishing the entire body and its organ systems as intended.
An ingenious system of movements allows the therapist to manipulate the client without much effort. Every movement is designed to support the client as well as the therapist, often giving the therapist a comfortable stretch as well. A wonderful feeling of inner connectedness and balance can be felt as client and therapist relax into the stretches together. Done in silence, this form can become a kind of meditation for both the giver and receiver, encouraging a state of calmness and peace.
Additional benefits of Thai Massage include, relief from pain and muscle tension, a general increase of energy, improvement of the circulation of the blood and lymph, an increase in flexibility, a more balanced nervous system and a peaceful relaxation of the body and mind. A must to try for anyone seeking a natural way to increase their overall health and well being. And typical to massage in general, it feels great!
Author Lita Stone
http://www.Massageclips.com Lita Stone has been practicing as a certified massage therapist for over 20 years. She's now sharing her favorite techniques and teaching how to give a deeply relaxing and effective massage on her selection of massage instruction video downloads. Beautiful to watch and easy to follow. Sign up now for her Free Massage Training Video!
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