Thai Massage at The Lemon Tree
Thai Yoga Therapy/Massage is an ancient form of therapeutic bodywork first practiced over 2500 years ago in what was then Siam. It is thought to have been developed by the famous doctor, Shivago Komarpaj, who was the personal physician of the Buddha. It was used to help prepare the Buddhist monks and nuns for their daily meditation. In addition, it was part of traditional medical treatment which also included herbal medicine, nutritional and food cures, and spiritual practice.
Thai Yoga Therapy works on the pranic, or subtle, energy body through a series of slow rhythmic compressions, gentle rocking movements, and gentle stretches derived from yoga asanas. It is founded on the theory of Sen lines, similar to the Nadis in the Indian system of Ayurveda. There are 72,000 Sen lines, of which ten are of primary importance. By opening up these pathways, the free movement of prana, or vital life force, through the physical body is facilitated.
Thai Yoga Therapy is unique in that it is done fully clothed (except for bare feet) on a firm mat on the floor. This allows the practitioner to use the body weight effectively, rather than muscular force. The energy lines and points are accessed with compressions using the palms, thumbs, elbows, soles of the feet, and knees, according to the needs of the recipient.
Why should I add a herbal compress to my Thai massage?
Traditionally, Thai herbal compresses (a blend of many Thai herbs, including eucalyptus, ginger, lemongrass, all wrapped in Thai cotton.) are used during the therapy session. The herbal compress ball, which when applied with heat and pressure, transfers the essential oils from the herbs to the recipient’s skin. This unique combination of heat, herbs, aromatic scent, and bodywork help to reduce muscular tension, increases blood circulation, stimulate lymphatic drainage and open blocked energy, healing and improving skin appearance. An unforgettable experience!
