Drawing from Thai history, cultural studies, Buddhist religion, and yogic practices, as well as a modern understanding of anatomy and physiology, this guidebook bridges the gap between theory and practice while presenting bodywork as it is understood in Thailand--as a therapeutic medical science. Presenting detailed analysis of each step in a Thai massage routine, the history, spiritual traditions, and ethical codes are offered in an engaging, informal style. Numerous photographs and diagrams illustrate the variety of techniques used, and examples of routines for treating specific disorders are discussed. Updated with new layout, photos, and expanded text, this exhaustive handbook is complete with a section on the main energy meridians and diagrams of acupressure points, making it the perfect tool to accompany anyone studying this popular healing modality.

Thai Massage, Sacred Bodywork is a complete guide to an ancient practice that benefits body, mind, and spirit. Interest in Thai massage has been growing rapidly. This is no surprise given its unique multifaceted approach to the body. Thai massage combines acupressure, stretching, reflexology, assisted yoga postures, herbal compresses, prayer and meditation. It benefits everyone. Sometimes called the "lazy person's yoga", Thai massage stretches and relaxes the muscles, increases the joints' range of motion, and balances energy flow throughout the body. Thai Massage, Sacred Bodywork provides fully illustrated, step-by-step instructions which enable the reader to use this integrative and interactive therapy with a partner at home or with a client. The book explains the historical and philosophical background of Thai massage as well as its religious origins. Throughout the book, Ananda always reminds us of the deeper meaning of this sacred modality—compassion in action. A must for all those interested in the healing arts.

Thai Foot Massage is an ancient art, and part of traditional Thai Medicine. In Thailand, it is the most widely applied treatment. This book is indispensable for all massage teachers, as it contains information and tips from a well experienced massage instructor with 10+ years of experience. Also, it will be valuable for those who wish to start learning simple massage techniques in order to apply them to family members and friends. In this book, you will find: • Detailed descriptions on traditional Thai Foot Massage techniques. • Instructions on massage techniques on the dorsal and palmar surfaces of the foot • Work with massage wooden tools and towels • Thai Hand Massage instructions • A small section on self-massage.

The Complete Guide to Traditional Thai Massage contains valuable information about this ancient, sacred form of bodywork. - Historical background - Sip Sen: the Thai meridians - Instructions for techniques in 4 positions (supine, side, prone and seated). - Luk Pra Kob: Thai herbal packs. Preparation and application - A short section on Tok Sen - See full table of contents below. This book is indispensable for the serious massage therapist, as well as for anyone who studies any form of bodywork. It will be also useful for those who simply wish to learn some massage techniques in order to apply them to family members and friends. 261 pages, with many photos and illustrations! table of contents about the author 4 the theory introduction & history 5 methodology of Thai massage 7 principles of Thai Royal Medicine 8 the mantra of Jivaka 10 contraindications & precautions 11 space & hygiene 11 sip sen: the Thai meridians 13 the techniques Jap Sen: working on the energy lines 25 how To Stop The Blood Flow 32 the feet 35 what lies underneath 48 leg techniques 52 single leg techniques 54 two legs techniques 78 what lies underneath 95 trunk - abdomen & thorax 99 what lies underneath 111 arms & hands 114 what lies underneath 134 side position 137 prone position 173 what lies underneath 206 Thai massage and lumbar disc degeneration 210 seated position 212 what lies underneath 228 face & scalp 230 what lies underneath 243 tok sen 246 luk pra kob 250 epilogue blending it all together 258

An authentic guide to Thai yoga massage, a unique therapy that combines stretching, breath work, assisted yoga postures, and pressure point therapy. • Includes more than 80 illustrations, 30 charts, and a complete series of postures for a two-hour full-body massage. • Author Kam Thye Chow has taught massage in Thailand and throughout Europe and North America. Until recently Thai yoga massage was virtually unknown in the West. It has its roots in both the ancient healing traditions of Ayurveda and Thai Buddhism. In this unique practice, the therapist gives a full-body massage that combines palming and thumbing along the Thai energy lines and pressure points with gentle stretching, movement, and breath work reminiscent of tai chi. Using his or her own hands, feet, arms, and legs, the practitioner gently guides the recipient through a series of yoga postures, creating a harmonious and therapeutic “dance” that leads to greater physical awareness, grace, and spiritual energy. In this comprehensive guide for practitioners, Kam Thye Chow leads readers through every aspect of this dance--from its history and philosophy to a detailed presentation of a complete Thai yoga massage session. This important reference includes more than 80 illustrated postures, 30 charts and drawings, and a complete series of postures for a two-hour full-body massage that focuses attention on both the upper and lower body, which receive equal stress in the Western lifestyle. Information on contraindications, anatomy, and physiology integrates Western medical knowledge and theory with this ancient tradition. Massage therapists, physical therapists, nurses, and other medical professionals will find Thai Yoga Massage an important and innovative complement to their practice.

Both professional practitioners and casual massage enthusiasts will learn to raise their practice to an art with this step-by-step guide to foot massage as traditionally taught in Thailand. The practical sections of the book clearly cover the different parts of the massage process, and color photos and graphics provide clear explanations to help learners utilize the techniques with confidence. The book also covers the history and theory behind Thai foot massage, including discussions about the reflex points on the feet and the concept of Sen (energy) lines that flow throughout the body, to help explain how this ancient healing art works. Though Thai foot massage is not a curative in itself, the featured techniques can promote general health and well-being.