What is THAI bodywork?
Thai yoga bodywork is an ancient healing system combining acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga postures. In the Thai language it is called nuad boran. Nuad means a touch with the intention of imparting healing. Boran is the sanskrit word for ancient or sacred. So the nuad boran is the sacred healing touch traditionally performed by the sangha, the monastic community, for the village. In many of these small villages in Thailand the sangha was responsible for sharing their work with everyone to keep balance and stay healthy, like preventative medicine. This approach to massage is very different, gratefully we in the west now have knowledge of this magical approach to health. Very similar to ayurveda, this system has a somatic view of the body. We have an internal view and treat the whole, then look at the parts - where in traditional western medicine we just treat a specific disease or ailment.
In ancient thai massage we work with the elements. Typically, no oils or lotions are used and clothes are left on - preferably loose active wear. There is constant body contact between the giver and receiver, but rather than rubbing on muscles, the body is compressed, pulled, stretched and rocked. It is performed on the floor with a mat. The receiver will be positioned in several yoga-like postures combined with deep static and rhythmic pressures. We work along your sen (energy lines in your superficial fascia) using our hands, feet, and body weight to massage and make adjustments where needed.
The four pillars of practicing thai yoga bodywork are metta, karunā, muditiā, and uppekhā - kindness, compassion, rejoicing, and equanimity. I am continually learning and relearning each pillar.
This practice has been absolutely earth shattering in my growth and evolution as an individual, and in my relationships. Especially in my relationship to myself. I've learned about parts of myself I truly didn't know existed
My practice is a spiritual practice. I hope that I am able to give you clarity in your body, in your mind, and in your spirit with my work. At times it can be painful as we bring our darkness to the forefront, but the bliss and balance that follows is incredibly beautiful.