Traditional Thai Massage: Origins & Techniques

Thai massage is deeply rooted in the rich history of the Kingdom of Siam. Far more than simply a way to relax the body, it is a window onto a centuries-old culture and practice that place physical and mental well-being at the forefront. On a visit to Bangkok, you will have the chance to brush against the bustling life of the metropolis, but also to discover the authentic art of Thai massage.

At the country's oldest massage school, located in the Wat Pho temple, the masters of this ancient tradition will give you an insight into their art. Learn more about the origins, principles and techniques behind Thai massage, as well as the countless benefits offered by this uniquely distinctive form of massage.

Traditional Thai massage is based on the teachings of the legendary physician Shivago Komarpaj (also known as Jivaka Komarabhacca), who lived in northern India more than 2,500 years ago and was closely connected to the Buddha. To this day, those who practise Thai massage pay tribute to him through a ceremony, the 'wai khru', held before beginning any session.

The techniques of Thai massage combine elements from India, traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, with an emphasis on the sen energy lines that run through the body. Many of the writings concerning their origins were lost in 1767 during an attack on Ayutthaya. What remained of these ancient texts was preserved on stone tablets at the temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) in Bangkok, which today is home to one of the most renowned massage schools in Thailand.

Traditional Thai massage is based on the following principle: channelling the body's energy in order to work on the subtle energy field it contains. This form of massage is very different from the techniques developed in other parts of the world.

One of the main distinguishing features lies in the set-up. Whereas Swedish massage or deep-tissue massage, for example, are carried out on a massage table, Thai massages are performed on a floor mat. This gives both the person being massaged and the masseur or masseuse greater freedom of movement. The masseurs generally move all around or above the person, so as to reach every part of the body from different angles.

Another difference is the technique. Unlike Western massage techniques, which mainly use the hands, fists, forearms and elbows, Thai masseurs may also make use of their legs and feet during the massage. This allows for a deeper stretch and pressure applied over a larger area. Often, during the massage session, clients are placed in various positions similar to those of yoga, without having to make the physical effort this would normally require.

Thai massage requires no oil, so clients can keep their clothes on. In general, it is recommended to wear loose clothing, not too close-fitting, allowing complete freedom of movement without being tight.

Thai massage follows a precise rhythm, in which the masseur moves along the sen lines of the person being massaged. These lines are regarded as the body's energy pathways. Often, the masseur uses their legs and feet to position the client's limbs, or their arms to stabilise the body while performing massage techniques with the feet. To stimulate the sen lines, the masseur may gently pull on the fingers, toes and ears, ease the joints back into place or carefully walk on the client's back.

The manipulations and movements specific to Thai massage include the following.

• Palm pressure: with the flat of the hand, firm pressure is applied to various parts of the body such as the back, arms, legs and feet.

• Thumb pressure: the thumbs are used to apply pressure to specific points such as acupressure points.

• Elbow pressure: large muscle groups such as the back, hips and thighs can be massaged with the elbows.

• Finger pressure: the fingers are used to apply pressure to smaller, very specific parts of the body such as the temples, the scalp or the face.

• Stretching: various stretching techniques are used, allowing the masseur to place the client's body in different positions, or to have them take an active part in the stretch.

• Rocking: the masseur gently rocks the person's body back and forth to relieve tension.

• Rotation and twisting: various rotating and bending movements are performed to loosen the joints and increase flexibility.

These manipulations and movements are intended to help with physical relaxation, but also to stimulate the flow of energy along the sen lines, in order to restore balance between body and mind.

As well as being wonderfully relaxing, it also offers numerous health benefits. Among the most notable are:

• Improved flexibility. Regular Thai massages stretch the muscles, leading to greater flexibility and freedom of movement.

• Better blood circulation. Every type of massage encourages blood flow. Good circulation contributes to healthy organs and to recovery after injury.

• Muscle relaxation. After a Thai massage, you feel lighter and your muscles more relaxed. The interplay between stretching and compression helps to relieve tense muscles and to counter tension of all kinds effectively.

• Better joint health. Thai massage improves the circulation of fluid in the joints, which reduces friction between the bones.

• Pain relief. A Thai massage can ease musculoskeletal complaints. In addition, massage can have a positive effect on neuropathic pain and other chronic conditions.

• Improved sleep quality. Many people say they sleep better after a Thai massage, as it has a relaxing effect and contributes to the release of serotonin.

• A calmer mind. Beyond physical well-being, mental health also plays an essential role. Massage offers relaxation for the mind too and helps to reduce stress.

• Better posture. The body's flexibility is improved after a Thai massage, which helps to improve posture.

Beyond muscle relaxation and improved mobility, Thai massage is known for its soothing effect on the central nervous system. It can also help to ease deep-seated emotional burdens and to raise energy levels noticeably.

Thai massages offer all sorts of health benefits, but they are not suitable for everyone. People with heart conditions, high blood pressure, spinal disorders or diabetes should take care, as should those who have recently had surgery. In addition, people with skin infections, fever or inflammation, as well as pregnant women or those with bone problems such as osteoporosis, are potentially at risk. Cancer patients should also avoid Thai massages. It is always advisable to seek a doctor's advice before opting for a massage.

In the heart of Bangkok, within the sumptuous setting of the Wat Pho temple - a magnificent jewel adorned with precious stones, gold-covered statues and mirror-inlaid mosaics - you will find the oldest massage school in all of Thailand. The day begins early: the idea is to explore all the treasures of the historic city before the temple fills with crowds of visitors. On a boat trip along the Chao Phraya River, you will glimpse the golden towers of the Grand Palace in the distance. The Wat Pho complex is known in particular for its 46-metre-long golden Reclining Buddha and for housing Thailand's first university.

If you want to capture the authentic spirit of Thailand, there are few better places than this school. Here you can learn the traditional techniques of Thai massage, just as they have been handed down from generation to generation over the centuries. The courses cover a wide range, from the basics such as etiquette and hand positioning to more specialised techniques and massages along the sen lines.

Among the highlights are the practice of rue-si datton, a traditional form of Thai bodily exercise, as well as learning the various massage positions. Between the lessons there are breaks punctuated by Thai meals that are a source of well-being in themselves, with the chance to discover the nine basic flavours that form the foundation of traditional Thai medicine.

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