Thai
massage looks like a cross between acupressure, yoga, and Zen shiatsu and is
inspired by Buddhist teachings. The actual massage consists of slow, rhythmic
compressions and stretches along the body’s energy lines, also called sen in
Thai. Over 70,000 sen are said to exist within the body which powers all
physical, mental, and emotional processes. If there is an energy imbalance, the
body’s harmony is disrupted, causing pain and disease. Massaging along these
key energy lines can break energy blockage, stimulate the circulation, and
restore general well-being. 

Thai massage
concentrates on applying pressure along 10 of the most important sen. In doing
this, it incorporates acupressure work with a series
of assisted yoga-like stretches, in which the practitioner uses his or her
hands, arms, legs, and feet to give the massage.

The emphasis is on the
practitioner using his or her body weight as much as possible while ensuring
that the receiver remains relaxed throughout the entire treatment. 

       
 
 A Thai massage is typically
performed on a floor mat enabling practitioners to use their body weight and to
incorporate the many movements that would not be possible with a  massage table. Normally, the
client remains fully clothed, and lubricant for the skin is rarely used. A Thai
massage usually lasts one to two hours but may be three hours or more if
needed.

Thai massage includes the
following four basic positions:

(1)

 from the front with the
client lying supine.

(2)

from the side with the client
alternately lying on either side.

(3)

from the back with the client
lying prone

in a sitting position.