T H A I   M A S S A G E

Simply put, the main focus of Thai massage is helping to attain or regain 'balance' in the flow of energy within the body.  A fully clothed massage that takes place on a mat on the floor, it uses various stretching and manipulation techniques to work on both the superficial and deeper fascial layers of muscles, ligaments, joints and connective tissue, and it touches all areas of the body including the nervous, digestive and respiratory systems.  It is important to wear loose clothing.

A Brief History

The roots of Thai Massage are in Buddhism.  Buddhist monks moved from India throughout Asia bringing with them not only their religious beliefs but also their medical practices.  Shivago Komarpaj, a physician and contemporary of Buddha is said to be the founder of this branch of medicine.  Practitioners of Thai Massage are taught to invoke his spirit before beginning a Thai Massage Treatment.

Today, a lot of Westerners experience various forms of Thai Massage on the beaches on Koh Samui or Phuket.  This has meant that it is now gaining popularity in the UK.  There are two main forms of Thai Massage - 'Northern Style' which originates from Chiang Mai in the North of Thailand and 'Southern' or 'Hard Style' which are practiced in Bangkok and the South.  The treatment offered here is the 'Northern Style' which is very gentle, rhythmic and relaxing.

What to expect after treatment

After an hour to an hour and a half after treatment, you will feel deeply relaxed and yet mentally very alert - a sense of deep well being accompanied by clarity of mind.  Your limbs and joints feel looser and more flexible - you may even feel taller!  You will probably have an excellent and undisturbed night's sleep.  You may well wake up feeling a little achy - like you have had a work out in the gym the day before.  Do not worry, this is normal.  Remember that you have had a strenuous work out despite it being so relaxing.  Any discomfort should pass within 24-48 hours.

Aftercare Advice

As with any Holistic Therapy, it is very important to drink plenty of water to aid the detoxification process.  Avoid alcohol for about 24 hours and don't eat a heavy meal for at least several hours after the treatment - if possible eat only light foods until the following day.  Avoid caffeine, cigarettes and any stimulants if at all possible.  Try to stay relaxed and as stress free as possible for the rest of the day.

The Positive Living Holistic Therapy Centre, 22 High Street,  Midsomer Norton, Nr Bath