Thai Massage is an ancient form of body therapy that incorporates the movement of yoga and the meridians of acupressure to create a complete and unique healing art form. Due to the unique form of stretching employed, Thai Massage is sometimes called "Lazy man's Yoga." It is practiced on a firm mat on the floor. It involves peripheral stimulation, acting as an external stimulant to produce specific, internal effects. This therapy combines point pressure techniques with a wide variety of stretching movements applied very slowly in patterns of gentle rocking and rhythmic compression. The effective use of the practitioner's body weight is instrumental in the practice. With the exception of the feet, the client remains fully clothed.

The hand techniques utilized in Thai massage emphasize pressure and compression, not stroking. The practitioner uses feet, knees, elbows and forearms to further the therapeutic and harmonizing effect of this work.

About Thai Foot Massage

The Thai Foot massage concentrates on the feet but, also works on the energy lines of the lower legs to the knees. In the workshop you will learn how to use your hands, thumbs, knuckles and a tool to massage the feet and legs. You will learn how to use the tool on 23 reflex points of the feet. Also you will learn how to wrap the foot to give it a comfortable feeling while massaging the other foot. When the workshop is finished you will be able to give a complete Thai foot massage.

I would like to tell you about my unexpected experience with Thai Foot Massage.

I have always loved foot massage but, now I not only love it, I need it. In January I phoned my orthopedic surgeon to tell him to schedule me for knee surgery. I was diagnosed with a torn medial meniscus. I had a great deal of discomfort when sitting in any position. I couldn't get rid of the pain. The office couldn't schedule me for surgery until I saw the doctor again. That was lucky for me because I taught a Thai foot massage workshop before I could get in to see the doctor. A couple of my students gave me a Thai foot massage and my pain was gone. My knee will never be what it was twenty years ago or even five years ago, but I have hope for a pain-free future.

I believe sometimes therapists are sent these little aggravations to teach us something. I can't tell you how happy this lesson has made me!!!

Remember, as massage therapists we cannot diagnose, so always see a physician before you make any important decisions concerning your health.