By: Bob Haddad
In: Thai Massage & Thai Healing Arts – Practice, Culture and Spirituality (page 9)
So, what is Thai Massage? Well, for one thing, it’s not “massage” as we know it in the West. In fact, it is unfortunate that the term “Thai massage” has become so popular because that second word, massage, is misleading and inaccurate. Massage tables and oil aren’t used, there is no rubbing on the skin or kneading of the muscles and the receiver remains clothed. The goal is not to work muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments, organs and soft tissue, though these anatomical elements are positively affected by the work. Neither is its purpose to simply stretch and apply passive yoga to another person on a floor mat. At its essence, nuad boran is a balanced blend of physical, energetic, and spiritual healing techniques and concepts. It is the skilful combination of applying both broad and targeted acupressure, finding and dissolving blockages, stimulating energy lines (sen), opening and toning the body with yoga-like stretches, and last but not least, allowing and enouraging the receiver to engage in a process of self healing, deep relaxation, and renewal.