Tell Me More About: Thai Bodywork

“Tell Me More About:” will be an on-going series that highlights types of bodywork you may have heard about, but might like more information on before pursuing a treatment. We welcome comments and questions with these posts, and encourage you to suggest future topics as well!

The first topic of our series will be Thai Bodywork. Also known as Thai Massage or Thai Yoga Massage, it is a traditional Eastern practice that helps the body regain its balance, both physically and energetically. It affects both the superficial and deep layers of the muscles, ligaments, joints and connective tissue to encourage deep yet gentle release.

The practice itself goes back thousands of years, and was developed by a physician named Shivago Komarpaj. It has a close relationship with Ayurveda (a traditional healing system in India), Yoga, traditional Chinese medicine, and Japanese Shiatsu. In fact, many of its movements are reminiscent of postures found in Yoga.

Two of our therapists practicing "Cobra," a wonderful stretch that opens the shoulders

Thai Bodywork works by encouraging you to release holding patterns in your breath, body, and energy. By using gentle rocking, breathing exercises, and facilitated stretching, the therapist helps you lengthen and open tight joints and muscles, which encourages the flow of energy, often known as “ki,” “chi,” or “prana.” You leave the session feeling relaxed, more open through your joints and muscles, and more energized.

Thai Bodywork sessions vary from practitioner to practitioner. Some prefer two- or even three-hour sessions; others keep sessions down to an hour or 90 minutes. Sessions are generally performed on a large floor mat, and you are provided with pillows and bolsters to ensure comfort. You remain fully clothed the entire time and loose, comfortable clothing such as t-shirts, sweats, or yoga pants are encouraged.

While the practice itself is appropriate for everyone, not all stretches will be. It is very important for you to let the therapist know of any recent injuries or medical procedures that have occurred in the last three to six months, or if you are pregnant. If an injury has occurred in the last week it may not be appropriate for that area to be treated. As any therapist will say, please let him or her know if something becomes uncomfortable or painful.

Stowe Village Massage has been offering Thai Bodywork in 60- and 90-minute sessions since December of 2012, and we also offer a Shiatsu/Thai Package deal. You can book treatments online or by calling 802-253-6555. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Our Thai Bodywork therapists