Traditional Thai massage - oriental relaxation

Traditional Thai massage is based on two fundamental theories: 'The four elements of the life force' and 'The ten energy meridians - Sen Sib'. According to the theory of the vital elements, the human being is composed of four elements - Earth, Water, Fire and Air, and is surrounded by them, and harmony between these elements will result in optimal health. Sen Sib theory refers to the ten main channels of circulation of the life force. These channels through which energy circulates form a network throughout the body and resonate with a person's physiological, psychological and spiritual experiences. When one or more channels are blocked or damaged, energy will no longer be able to circulate freely through the body and the negative effects will be felt in the person's well-being. Restoring or unblocking the meridians will release energy throughout the body and the benefits will be felt throughout the body.

Therapeutic techniques in traditional Thai massage In Thailand, massage is seen as an energy therapy - similar to magnetic bio-energy, for example. In the West, Thai therapeutic massage is seen more as a form of bodywork - similar to physiotherapy or osteopathy, due to the manual and mechanical techniques used to manipulate the body. Although there are countless styles of massage practised by the Thai population, depending on the area or school they represent, the universal techniques are: acupressure and yoga-type stretching.

Pressure massage is applied using the fingers, elbows, forearms, knees or feet at specific points on a person's energy chart to fluidise the circulation of energy through the meridians to stimulate healing. Pressure points most often correspond to the familiar Trigger Points, which can be very painful when stimulated. The body is meant to move, and stretching positions set the body in motion by activating the client's kinaesthetic potential. The therapist carefully guides the client's body into slow stretching positions, exploring the individual's capacity for mobility and flexibility. Stretching has an instant relaxing effect, both on the muscular, mental and emotional levels - hence the feeling of inner peace, release and fulfilment, very often expressed in comments such as these: "I feel like I'm floating on clouds". Through movement we experience wholeness.

Besides the two main techniques, there are also some tools that complete the Thai therapeutic massage portfolio, such as: the wooden "finger" (to intensify the pressure), the warm herbal compress (which adds phytotherapeutic benefits), the tapping with the wooden hammer - Toksen, a technique specific to the Chiang Mai region. Essentially direct pressure is a "yin" therapeutic intervention, and tapping, with Toksen for example, is a "yang" intervention. A well-trained therapist must be able to identify possible inflammation and avoid certain techniques, know when to apply hot or cold therapy, and have a good knowledge of contraindications and restrictions in order to provide each client with an effective and safe massage. But perhaps most importantly, a therapist must be able to "dance" with the client in a flowing, musical rhythm.

The quintessence of the Thai therapeutic tradition is found in Ayurvedic medicine and Buddhist spiritual teachings and practices, reflecting the concepts of "Metta" (unconditional love and compassion) and "Vipassana" (clear vision; deep understanding).

We consider that practical Experiences are the essence of great memories so we invite you on our blog to read about the advantages of purchasing an experience rather than a material gift.

Details of the experience:

• Location: Bucharest, Shakti Centre, 15 minutes from the University
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Experience for one person

Important to know:

• The experience is subject to availability (advance booking required)
• Voucher is valid for 12 months