Four branches of Thai massage and Thai medicine

Traditional medical practice in Thailand consisted of four areas: 1) medicine, 2) midwifery, 3) orthopedics, and 4) massage. Traditional doctors had to master all four disciplines. Before becoming a full-fledged doctor, he studied under teachers for many years. physical body, energy system or mind/heart. For example, herbal medicine and midwifery deal with physical conditions. Massage and yoga address energy and sen lines. Spiritual healing and religion (Buddhism) purify the mind.

It is no coincidence that Chiang Mai's Shivago Komarpaj Hospital is divided into three sections. The massage clinic in the west, the herbal facility in the east, and the shrine in the middle represent three levels of healing.

Thai massage or nuadboran (Thai) is oil-free bodywork that combines body massage, acupressure, and stretching.

It is done on a mat on the floor with the client wearing comfortable clothing. Besides hands and fingers, massage therapists use other parts of the body, such as elbows, knees, and feet, to manipulate clients into various positions. Body weight is used to apply pressure. Experiencing the routine movements of a Thai massage is often described as "someone else doing yoga to you" or "doing yoga in a lazy way." Actually, Thai massage is not yoga, but some of the poses are similar to yoga asanas (Sanskrit for a method of sitting/meditation).

Thai massage is based on the concept of energy lines called Sens that nourish the body with life force. This energy is called lom (wind) in Thai and prana (breath) in Sanskrit. There are 10 major Senlines, each with its own features and benefits. Depending on the client's condition, massage therapists treat specific lines to improve health. A complete Thai massage routine can last anywhere from an hour to several hours. This type of massage is very much in line with Thai culture and the Buddhist concept of Metta (May all living beings be healthy, free from danger, peaceful and happy). Be courteous, respectful, and considerate.

The origins of Thai massage are unknown, but experts see the influence of Chinese and Indian medicine. Today, Thai massage is the most popular branch of Thai medicine in the world. It is widely practiced in Thai clinics and spas. More and more professionals in Europe and North America are adopting this massage modality, and several Thai massage schools/classes are growing as well.