You Thought Thai Massage Originates From Thailand?

By Tango Pang

Asian massage is very popular as a form of therapy and relaxation. The tradition Asian massage techniques have been developed and refined in India and the Far East over many centuries.

Thai Massage originates in India, Thai massage techniques is a combination of guided stretching and Meridian pressure techniques with Pranayama breathing. This form of massage was brought to Thailand by Dr Shivago K., in Buddah’s time about some 2500 years ago. Pranayama breathing technique is meant for cleansing the body and strengthening ones nervous system. Pranayama breathing is also said to help in boosting the immune system, focusing, concentration, and more efficient oxidation of the blood. Massage is done on a mat or firm mattress on the floor. The recipient is made to practice yoga-like positions during the massage. At the end of the massgae, most recipients find Thai massage very relaxing and refreshing.

Shiatsu Massage hails from the Japanese words - shi, meaning finger, and atsu, implying pressure. It is another form of Asian massage developed in the Far East, known to most as originating in Japan. It uses the pressure of thumb, palms, and fingers, and works along the energy meridians of the body with the same meridians as acupressure. The health benefits of Shiatsu massage include rebalancing of bone system, improvement in our circulatory function, enhanced balance of the nervous system and increase greater flexibility of skin and muscle.

Chinese Tui Na massage is actually a form of Chinese manipulative therapy that was developed more than 5000 years ago. This Asian massage is often used in combination with the acupuncture, Chinese herbalism and other natural health therapies. The essence of this massage lies in applying pressure to the body at certain key points - just like acupressure. It uses a series of pressing, tapping, and kneading with the therapist’s palms, fingertips, knuckles or certain implements that are said to remove minor blockages along the meridians of the body.

The result is the stimulating of qi (natural respiration of the body) and blood to promote natural healing. Tui na massage is used as an alternate treatment for both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as certain non-musculoskeletal conditions. It also has fewer side effects than many modern drug-based and chemical-based treatments since it is totally based on natural therapy.

Javanese Massage of Indonesia is another popular type of Asian massage. It uses all parts of the therapist’s hand, (knuckles, palms and fingers) to knead and massage the body muscles. The whole massage procedure is facilitated by using massage oil. Javanese massage relieves tension, alleviates back pain and helps in the healing of fractures. Though it is the most robust (and sometime even painful) type of Asian massage but very beneficial for your health.

Tango Pang is a writer on many massage and alternative treatment. He is a certified massage therapist. Click on Massage and Therapy if you are keen to know more about the wonders of massage.