massage
The ancient art of traditional Thai medicine consists of herbal medicine, spiritual meditation and Thai massage.
The origins of the technique were taken to Thailand by Dr Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha from India approximately 2500 years ago. Since that time the imported Vedic knowledge and healing techniques became integrated with that of traditional Chinese medicine. And ongoing medical research has brought about many subtle variations to the technique as it is currently taught and applied by the various Thai massage school.
What is Thai massage?
In contrast to the movements that would come to mind when one thinks of massage, traditional Thai massage (a.k.a. Thai Yoga Massage – because the movements of the body by the therapist are just like those of yoga but with the therapist putting in all the effort) is a gentle art that consists of much soft tissue pressing, stretching, twisting, joint manipulation and acupressure.
When a client receives Thai massage on a regular basis the healing effect of the treatment is felt on the physical, emotional and spiritual levels.
Thai massage has a relaxing but more rigorous, energising effect on the body; while the more classic forms of massage have the effect of relaxation to utter exhaustion.
The benefits of Thai massage
• Relaxes all the muscles of the body
• Reduces stress level
• Improves blood and lymph circulation
• Increases energy
• Increases bodily flexibility
• Improves the range-of-motion of the body
• Centres the mind and body
Preparing to receive Thai massage
• Avoid eating a large meal just before your treatment
• Arrive early for your appointment (to complete forms, if necessary, and relax)
• Do give your health history to your therapist ( you may have a condition that is a contra-indication for Thai massage)
The characteristics of the traditional Thai massage technique
The technique of traditional Thai massage differs considerably from that of Swedish massage. While Swedish massage concentrates on working the muscles, the Thai treatment usually follows the Sen lines (akin meridians and nadis) on the body, unblocking them and balancing the various energy centres of the body as the massage treatment progresses. Physically Thai massage also encourages good blood and lymph flow.
While working, the therapist leans on the client’s body using hands and forearms to apply firm rhythmic pressure and stretch the body in all directions. As they work on the floor, the therapist is in a position to use their legs and feet to anchor the body or limbs of the client. For other positions the hands may be used to anchor the body, with the feet doing the massaging. The fingers, toes and ears may be pulled; the knuckles may be cracked; the therapist may walk up and down the client’s back. The procedure may also include arching the client’s back into the cobra position. The stretching movements serve to relax and energize the body, as well as increase bodily flexibility.
Thai massage works on the peripheral areas of the body, to have an internal effect on the body. When an individual has blocked Sen Lines, they stand to begin suffering a range of ailments, chronic pain, and disease and, if severe enough and left untreated, even death. There are 72 000 Sen but the 10 most important Sen form the chief focus of the Thai massage technique.
There is a standard procedure and rhythm to the giving of this massage. As the treatment progresses some of the movements have the client experiencing a moment of pain; however, to enjoy the full benefit of the treatment, a client must give over to the massage process, relaxing rather than tensing their muscles.
What to expect on the first visit
As Thai massage and ordinary massage differ to a great extent, you may not be sure what to expect of your Thai massage treatment on your first visit to a Thai massage parlours or studio.
Traditional Thai massage is usually performed on a padded mat on a Thai massage table. No oil is applied to the skin and the client remains fully clothed. However, in preparation for the first visit, the client will be asked to wear comfortable, unrestrictive clothing.
The treatment lasts 60 to 120 minutes; though it may even last up to 180 minutes. A short treatment that focuses properly on the most affected areas of the body is more desirable than a long treatment that is applied without understanding.
Tell your massage therapist if you feel discomfort at any time. As traditional Thai massage is performed on clients while they are fully clothed, you may discover your treatment may be performed in a group setting, with up to 12 clients receiving treatment simultaneously, rather than in a private setting.
Nude Thai massage
During a traditional Thai massage the client remains fully clothed. However, there is a nude Thai massage (a.k.a. Thai oil massage) technique that requires the application of oil that requires the client and the massage therapist to be nude. While the traditional Thai massage may be performed in a group therapy situation, Thai oil massage is always performed in a private setting. However, if the client should so prefer, they may keep on their underwear, despite the privacy of the situation.
The nude Thai massage is also performed on a Thai massage mats on the floor. Before commencing with the treatment the therapist will ask you whether you prefer the pressure to be soft, medium or hard. You may be asked to choose from a selection of aromatic Thai massage oils, creams or lotions. The treatment usually starts with the client lying on their front, to have their back massaged.
Thai massage aids (mats, massage pillows, bolsters and kneel mats)
Thai massage mats
As Thai massage is done on the floor Thai massage mats have to be large enough for the client to lay in the middle and permit the therapist to kneel upon the edges of the mat while working.
In addition, the mats are thick enough to permit the client to feel comfortable while lying down as well as prevent the therapist from experiencing sore knees while kneeling. The outer cover of the mat is made from Thai style fabric, which is usually in some bright colour, and it is traditionally stuffed with natural kapok fibre. The tubular fabric construction – each tube being stuffed individually – of the Thai massage mat gives firm support.
The Kapok tree, which – when mature – is huge, is found in tropical regions. Its large pods contain seed that is surrounded by a fluffy, yellowish fibre. The fibre (a.k.a. Java cotton, Java kapok, ceiba) is light, water resistant and very buoyant. In mythology the Kapok is a symbol sacred to the Mayan tradition. However, modern man-made fibre may have replaced this traditional filling in the mat you may use.
Massage pillows
Within Thai culture the triangle pillow has become commonly used item that is found in business venues, restaurants, bars, and the home – and they make good massage cushions. The triangle pillow is made in much the same way as the Thai massage mat; not only does the tubular fabric construction give firm support, it also ensures the cushion will stay firm and last for many years.
Body support bolsters and Kneel mats
Body support bolsters and kneel mats are two additional items Thai massage therapists use for client and self-comfort while working.
Knee massage machine
While your Thai massage therapist may perform your knee massage manually, he/she may use a knee massage machine. Knee massage machines are available in a variety of types and models, including electric (belt, vibrator), wooden (manual rollers) and electric knee pads (woollen, fleece lined).
Thai massage oil
Thai massage oils come in a variety of fragrances, the properties of which work for a variety of health conditions and illnesses.
Contra-indications to Thai massage
Thai massage is contra-indicated when a person has:
• A serious heart condition, high blood pressure or cancer
• Osteoporosis
• An artificial hip or knee joint
• Skin condition including eczema, psoriasis or shingles, rash or open wounds (on the affected areas)
• Bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumours, abdominal hernia, or a recent fracture
• Varicose veins (not to be massaged deeply)
• Immediately after surgery
• Immediately after receiving chemo- or radiation therapy (unless permission has been obtained from the medical doctor concerned)
• A blood clot or is prone to developing blood clots (unless permission has been obtained from a medical doctor)
Thai massage is also contra-indicated for pregnant women.
Finding a properly trained therapist
The training of Thai massage therapists is strictly controlled by the Thai Ministry of Education. Previously it was necessary to go to Thailand to receive such training. However, these days a number of accredited Thai massage schools are to be found across the globe.
All credit given to our sources as listed below:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_massage
http://www.foot-bodymassage.com/Ancient.php
http://www.massagetherapy101.com/massage-techniques/thai-massage.aspx
http://peterdickinson.hubpages.com/hub/The-Oil-Massage
Massage therapy is a form of alternative treatment that involves the use of oils and lotions and long, smooth hand movements including kneading on the soft tissues and the muscles of the body. It works by improving blood circulation in the body, which in turn increases the oxygen supply in the various tissues and muscles. It also relieves the pressure on the muscles and increases their flexibility. The blood circulation attained also helps remove accumulated wastes in the joints that may cause stiffness and pain like lactic acid. Massage therapy is used to treat conditions like back pains, inflammatory conditions, headaches and migraines and repetitive sprain injury. It is also used to relieve stress.
The use of massage therapy has risen in recent times after its recognition as an effective form of complimentary and alternative treatment. In a National Health review done in 2007, it was found out that 18 million adults and 700,000 children use massage treatment. There are several forms of the treatment. The most popular ones include Swedish treatment- is the most common one and makes use of firm hand strokes and lotions over the body to attain relief, sports massage therapy- a form of Swedish massage adopted to the needs of sportsmen in combating injury and fitness, aromatherapy-which uses scented plant oil like lavender and is used to mainly treat stress, and hot stone massage- where hot smooth stones are placed on pressure points on the body to loosen up tight muscles.
Also popular are the Shiatsu massage from the Japanese, the Thai massage which concentrates on specific pressure points and reflexology which focuses on the feet to achieve the well being of the whole body. These types of massages can be learned in top massage therapy schools, which are found nationwide. To learn how to make money doing massage, one need to attend one of the massage training schools. The schools include both offline and online massage therapy schools. Examples of top massage therapy schools include Ashworth College, South University and American Intercontinental University, which were named the top three schools for the year 2011. There are also specialist massage therapy schools like sports massage therapy schools where sports massage therapy courses and training are offered. Here, the students acquire skills that deal with anatomy and physiology and focus on improving athleticism and preventing injury. Top sports massage therapy schools include Bryan College and the National Holistic Institute.
When looking for online massage therapy schools or sports massage therapy courses online, checking the schools accreditation and certification is important. It is also wise to look at the alumni and what technology is used. Other factors to consider include the teacher-pupil interaction and the transferability of credits. To learn about massage, there are alternatives to the top massage therapy schools, whether online massage therapy schools or specialized schools like sports massage therapy schools. These include using video training and several manuals available that offer guidelines on how to perform different kinds of massage.
Massage therapy certification varies across the states and 37 states regulating the practice. The qualifications for licensing depend on the exams taken and regulations of a given state. The primary massage certification exam is from the national examining body, the National Certification Body for Therapeutic Massage and Body work, which has two exams. Different states may have their own exams that have to be done before one can be licensed to practice and learn how to make money doing massage. Both ways, massage is an exciting practice and one interested should seek a good training school.
What is the Average Massage Therapist Salary?
According to United States Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Editions for massage therapist, hourly wages of massage therapists, including gratuities, were $16.78 in May 2008. Those that fall within the middle 50 percent earned between $11.36 and $25.14 why the lowest 10 percent earned less than $8.01, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $33.47. However, massage therapy salary in 2011 rose considerably as many individuals now prefer natural form of cure to pains and ailment in the form of a natural therapy.
The yearly earnings of a massage therapist vary considerably over the year depending on the number of hours worked and this is reflected as most massage therapist work part time.
Massage therapy is a very effective mode of treatment for various conditions ranging from muscle aches to sleep problems to depression. There are actually many different kinds of massage that you can choose from and all of which are specially meant to help relieve distinct health issues. In order to receive the best benefits out of massage therapy, it is essential that you know and understand what particular kind of massage can best improve your health.
Sports Massage Together With Its Many Therapeutic Benefits
One of the many beneficial forms of massage therapy is sports massage therapy and as the term implies, it is specially designed to assist sportspersons to be able to perform at higher expectations. The techniques that are utilized during the administration of sports massage therapy are pretty similar to those which are utilized during a typical Swedish massage. However, sports massage works the muscles more deeply. While the techniques used are comparable, sports massage is meant specifically to aid athletes. This distinct form of massage boasts of the capability to minimize muscle tension, inflammation (swelling) and soreness. The lessening of muscle strain and tension during a sports massage therapy can help limit the athlete’s risks of acquiring an injury. Specialized tactics are utilized to help a sportsperson before, during as well as after an athletic event in order to enhance performance.
Choosing Sports Massage
Whether you are a professional athlete or simply a physically active individual, sports massage is a better option for you. You are still going to experience relaxation and that sense of enhanced well being; however, the main emphasis of this massage is to ensure that all of the muscles in your body are all set to perform.
A Word of Caution
Although any form of massage is generally deemed safe, it is highly advised that you only get sports massage from someone who have had the apt massage therapy training, for safety purposes and assurance of efficacy.
Hot stone massage therapy is one of the many forms of massage therapy wherein water-treated, warm stones are positioned at specific parts on a patient’s body in order to encourage relaxation as well as to help stimulate and open up the so-called meridians or energy pathways. Muscles in your body are pretreated using heated stones in order to permit the practitioner to easily perform the manipulation of deep tissues. Cold stones are often times utilized as a substitute to hot stones. Essential massaging oils are also normally incorporated in the entire massage treatment.
Hot Stone Massage Therapy Benefits
- Promotes deep tissue and muscle relaxation
- Relieves high stress
- Alleviates pain
- Calms the mind
- Enhances circulation
- Releases harmful toxins
Health Concerns Treated with Hot Stone Massage Therapy
- Back pain
- Circulatory problems
- Arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches and pains
- MS
- Depression
Now, although hot stone massage is one of the more expensive massage therapies out there today, it is definitely going to be worth it! The reason as to why it is more costly as compared to other basic forms of massages is that it necessitates more preparation, clean up and it normally runs longer. An average hot stone therapy may cost around $125 to $150, or possibly higher.
This approach is also inappropriate to those who have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or individuals who are taking pharmaceuticals which thins the blood. Hot stone therapy is also not advised to pregnant women and/or those who have serious sunburn.
The wrong practice of this form of massage may cause ill-effects; hence always make it a point to only avail of the services of a practitioner who went to bona fide massage therapy schools and have had proper massage therapy training, specializing in hot stone therapy. For those living in California, you can easily verify the authenticity of a practitioner or establishment by logging onto the California Massage Therapy Council website.
Have you ever wondered why many people these days are turning towards hot stone massage as a form of peace and relaxation? Well, if it happens that you have not yet tried this style of massage therapy before, then you are definitely missing out on many things!
There are numerous reasons as to why many fancy receiving this form of massage therapy. To give you an idea, here are some of the things that people simply love about hot stone massage therapy;
Relaxing
When the hustles and bustles of life becomes too unbearable and you feel that you are about to crash, a nice soothing hot stone session can rejuvenate both your mind and body as well as provide you with that much needed break you are yearning for. This type of massage therapy includes the utilization of hot stones which are efficient in relieving pressure from your tired muscles.
Good for the health
Several studies have shown that hot stone therapy has many positive impacts on one’s mental and physical health. This explains why it has recently become a stable part of a lot of medical treatments. Just a couple of these medical conditions are muscle pains and aches, fibromyalgia, insomnia, circulatory problems and arthritis.
Easy on the pocket
One therapeutic session may cost $90, more or less. Spending a vacation in an island somewhere can indeed be relaxing, but that could cost you a huge sum of your precious cash. Having a hot stone massage is an excellent way for you to relax and have fun without spending a fortune.
The Internet is a great resource for finding establishments that offer hot stone massage should you wish to experience its many therapeutic benefits. There are also a lot of massage therapy schools these days that offer massage therapy courses and massage therapy training specializing in the administration of hot stone therapy and you can easily find one near your area by browsing online.
While no massage device will ever replace the expert skills of a live massage therapist, there are a couple of absolutely amazing massage devices on the market that come close to mimicking the real thing. My top picks for massage products of this caliber include the Osaki 3000/4000 Massage chair series, the Head Massage Tingler device, and the Electronic Pulse Massager by Prospera.
Let’s take a look at the features of each of these tools for massage and why I think they deserve to be on a list of the best massage tools for at home use.
Osaki Massage Chair
The Osaki Massage Chair is one of the best chair massagers to hit the market – ever. While the price tag certainly reflects this advancement in at home massage “artificial intelligence”, if you will, the pay off is huge. Imagine having the ability to get a full body massage at home whenever you’d like. Like all massage chairs, the Osaki 3000 and the Osaki 4000 offer various massage programs and techniques which are all customizable and can be adjusted in real time. What this chair offers that others don’t is a far superior design for posture, hence the Osaki “zero gravity” marketing campaign. In my experience, many massage chairs are just bad for posture, whereas this design comfortable supports your body while massaging it.
You can buy the Osaki direct from the company on their website, but most people buy it from Sharper Image, as this is where it’s currently on demo. It sells between $2,000 to $3,000, depending on which chair you get and your warranty/shipping options.
The Head Massage Tingler
This device goes by many times – head massage tingler, spine tingler, scalp massager – but make no mistake, it is absolutely amazing. About 10 years ago in London I saw them being sold on the street, taking notice because a crowd had surrounded the seller and she gave live demonstrations on the heads of adventurous tourists. I don’t want to sound like I’m overselling here, but the device gave some people such a euphoric jolt they literally couldn’t take it and squirmed out her reach! It’s a very pleasurable sensation and if you’ve never tried, you are in for a real treat.
There are a handful of different companies making the tingler, and you’ll see prices vary from $15 to $30.
The Prospera Electronic Pulse Massager
Electronic pulse massage is a very different sensation than either hand massage therapy or any other kind of tool that stimulates human touch. It works instead by send subtle pulses of electricity to your muscles. This stimulating sensation relieves muscle pain and works out soreness in your body, creating relaxed muscles. If you enjoy massage therapy in order to relief physical pain, then you will very likely find the use of electronic massage effective for pain relief as well. The principle behind the science is something called Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, which relieves pain by blocking the signal between the nerve and the brain that carries such information. Similar to the much larger and more expensive TENS 3000 machine, the Prospera is much cheaper and easier to operate. Using a pulse massager as needed in the comfort of your own home is an excellent way to treat back pain without the typical expense of professional treatments. Note that the electronic pulse technology here is the same technology used in doctors offices around the country.
Convenient, portable, and easy to use on yourself or other, the Prospera Electronic Pulse Massager uses 4 AAA batteries and costs around $40-$60.
Constipated?
Most people go for laxatives as the most common remedy for constipation since they are easily available as over the counter drugs in most stores and give quick relief. Though it is one of the easy solution but many people are allergic to laxatives which could harm them. For most people it would be great if they could now come to know of some natural and effective common constipation remedies and natural remedies for constipation those do not require laxatives. Here are some simple yet effective remedies which can help you to eliminate constipation without laxatives.
1. Acupressure and Acupuncture Therapy
Acupressure and acupuncture therapies are ancient therapies and they are very effective in curing many diseases and aliments. In our body there are many energy channels which are present through which the bio or the life force energy flows.
These channels pass through various organs and there are multiple channels in the body. Some of the points which are small area of around 3 by 3 mm lie closer to the skin. When pressure points are pressed on a particular channel the organs which lie on those channels are energized and healed. When we press points which are connected to the organs of the digestive system and excretory system it helps in the digestive process as well as elimination process by making the organs more effective.
Most of the pressure points for constipation are located from the throat pit to the navel. Press each of these pressure points for 2 to 3 minutes between two to three times a day and you would be able to get relief. You can read the acupressure points for constipation relief! which mentions the various useful points.
2. Abdomen Massage
Abdomen massage is another way to get constipation relief. Get the massage with some oil like mustard or olive oil. First apply the oil inside the navel center and then with circulation movements apply the oil on the entire abdomen region. This massage becomes more useful when it is done in the morning or afternoon time in the sun.
Take bath after the massage with cold water or slightly warm water in the winters. Abdominal massage will activate all the organs in the abdomen region. The oil reaches the intestines once it is absorbed through the skin and helps in keeping the intestines lubricated due to which the stool can move easily through the passage.
3. Yoga
Yoga can also as a therapy as well as exercise routine. Yoga therapy is gaining popularity by the day and every year millions of people practice yoga for relief from many many diseases and ailments. Practicing yoga for 20 to 30 minutes 4 to 5 days a week can help solve problems like constipation.
There are many poses like standing poses and sitting poses which can help in constipation relief.
Whenever you apply the above remedies for few weeks you would see radical differences and would not only get relief but also be able to avoid occurrence of many diseases plus constipation. Additional general tip to avoid many health problem would be drink lots of water especially early in the morning.
Take around 4 to 6 glasses of a little warm water along with the above discussed tips and just notice how healthy you become in a short while naturally without the need to take any health supplements.
Ironman Gravity 4000 Inversion Table
Inversion therapy is not a new method for treating back pain. In fact, it has been used for centuries already for eliminating back pain and various ailments but it was only recently that its other essential benefits were discovered.
Nowadays, its benefits are no longer limited to back pain treatment because it already covers a wide array of physical, medical, and therapeutic benefits. So, if you are suffering from back pain, I personally suggest that you give inversion therapy try.
It will be better and cheaper than taking pain killers or other type of medications and it will provide you the needed relief and its other benefits in no time.
However, to make it possible, you will need a good inversion table to work with. Inversion tables will make the inversion process more relaxing, comfortable, and conveniently performed. If you don’t have any idea about which inversion table to purchase, consider this inversion table below as my personal recommendation.
Rest assured that you will not regret your purchase and you will surely get an excellent value for your money with this exceptionally amazing inversion therapy table.
Ironman Gravity 4000 Inversion Table Review
Ironman Gravity 4000 is Ironman Fitness’ most advanced inversion table in their gravity line series so you can be sure that you are getting a highly durable and stable machine for inversion if you consider this table among others. With its top – rated quality and excellent features, Gravity 4000 will really make good investment. It is built with a very solid construction but it didn’t sacrifice comfort and it is still easy to use.
One of its best features is its heavy duty, extra – wide, and adjustable tubular steel frame base with rubber floor stabilizers which makes it more stable and safer to use especially for users who are taller and slightly overweight. It can accommodate users weighing up to 350 pounds and standing up to 6’6” tall.
In addition, it is also equipped with vinyl covered memory foam back rest which is comfortable and durable at the same time; a removable lumbar pillow for head and lumbar support during inversion; ankle cushions which are more comfortable and secure than foam rollers; and extra long safety handles which will allow you to have full control over your inversion angles and to easily return to an upright position. More importantly, it is built to last a lifetime with is scratch – resistant powder coating and triple chrome finish and it is reasonably priced at only $218.87.
Its only drawbacks are its being heavy and bulky than even if it can be folded, it is still big and heavy so it cannot be moved and stored away easily. However, to some users this is not a disadvantage because being big and heavy only means that this table is stable and highly durable to accommodate multiple users for a very long time thereby giving you more value for your money.
So, if you will be looking for a well – built, high quality, very durable, and sturdy inversion table with great and excellent features but you cannot justify spending $300, then this inversion therapy table is one perfect choice.