Nuad Boran [Noo-ad Bo-rahn] is an ancient body therapy commonly known as Thai massage, Thai yoga massage, traditional Thai massage or Thai bodywork.
It is said to have originated in India over 2,500 years ago and that its founder, Shivago Komarpaj, was the Buddha’s personal physician. Over the centuries, the original Thai yoga massage has evolved under Chinese an Indian influences and medical traditions with different styles now practiced throughout Southeast Asia.
A Thai yoga massage is a whole different experience from what you most likely imagine when you think of massage. It is generally performed on a floor mat, while you are fully dressed and without the use of oil.
During the massage, the practitioner will guide you through a series of yoga postures and apply pressure along the body’s energy (“Sen”) lines and pressure points.
Using his or her whole body – palms, thumbs, forearms, elbows, knees and feet, the practitioner compresses, stretches, pulls, and rocks your body while applying rhythmic touch. Therefore, it’s called “the dance”.
These actions create a full body treatment that clears any energy blockages and relieves tension in your body and leaves you feeling balanced and rejuvenated. But this dance has several great other benefits:
- Balances and increases energy
- Boosts the immune system
- Deepens relaxation
- Improves blood circulation
- Increases flexibility
- Lowers stress
- Improves quality of sleep
- Mobilizes joints
- Reduces muscle tensions and spasms
- Relieves headaches and migraines
Thai yoga massage is all about helping your mind and body recover and relax. It can be gentle or vigorous, depending on your body’s needs, but it should never hurt. Listen to your body and communicate with your practitioner in case anything does not feel right.
Contraindications:
Although Thai yoga massage offers many benefits, it is contraindicated for cancer patients, pregnant women, and anyone with a history of blood clots or suffering from back injury, such as a herniated disk. Always consult with your doctor prior to booking your Thai yoga massage.
A well-trained practitioner will take time to discuss your medical history and understand your physical, and emotional needs prior to beginning your massage.
Selecting a practitioner:
In Lebanon, at present, there is no overall governing body to regulate and monitor qualifications and standards for massage therapies. Therefore, it is best to select a practitioner who is recommended by someone you know and trust, a medical professional, or a reputable massage center.
Always ask the practitioner about their training, certifications, experience, and any references. Make sure it is someone you feel comfortable with as (s)he will be in close physical contact with you for the duration of the massage.
When I received my first Thai massage, I noticed and enjoyed its immediate benefits on the physical, mental and emotional level. I invite you to share that wonderful experience too.
