Thai Yoga Massage

Why have a Thai Yoga Massage treatment?

If you...

  • suffer from muscle or joint stiffness
  • need to relax
  • would like to have more energy
  • are any age whatsoever
  • are getting back to fitness after injury
  • Like massage, but don't like oil on the skin

you can benefit enormously from this dynamic and relaxing healing art.

What is Thai Yoga Massage?

Ancient Thai Massage

The origins of Thai Massage (or "ancient massage" as it is known in Thailand ) date back more than 2,500 years to the time of the original Buddha (Siddharta). Its founding father is believed to be an Indian doctor, Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha, a friend of Siddharta and physician to the Sanga, a Buddhist monastic order. He brought the principles of massage and herbal medicine to the region; even today the influence of Ayurveda (the ancient system of medicine practised in India) can still be clearly seen in Thai healthcare.

The theory behind TYM hinges on the principle of energy flow in the body. Disease and dysfunction, whether it is physical, mental or emotional is believed to be caused by blockages in the flow of this energy. In Thai medicine it is believed that a "shell" of some 72,000 energy lines, or "sen" covers the body like a skin, transporting Chi, or life-force energy. TYM utilises ten of these lines, each containing points which when manipulated have a direct influence on the health of the individual. Western science is beginning to recognise that these points, while not always anatomically verifiable, do indeed seem to influence the flow of nerve impulses in the body.

What happens during a TYM treatment with Ana?

During the consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss the issues for which you require treatment in a comfortable and welcoming clinical environment. Absolute discretion and confidentiality is assured, & every effort made to put you at ease and ensure that your experience is as enjoyable as possible.

TYM differs considerably from other forms of massage in that no oils are used and the client remains fully clothed. The treatment is also given on a floor mat or futon as opposed to a massage couch. A dual approach to treatment is utilised to encourage healthy energy flow in the body:

  1. Acupressure
    Not to be confused with acupuncture, which uses needles, Ana uses fingers, thumbs, feet, toes, elbows, knees and even sitting on the client to manipulate various points on the sen.

  2. Stretching
    Passive or assisted yoga stretches are applied throughout the treatment to supplement the point work.

During a TYM treatment your body will not be forced to do anything that it is not able to easily accomplish. (As a general note, you should never stretch, or be stretched beyond the limits of your range of movement at that time; to do so causes injury.) In addition to the traditional TYM techniques, Ana incorporates advanced remedial massage to maximise the benefits, making this an ideal form of treatment for anyone looking to increase their flexibility and range of movement.

The combination of acupressure and stretches results in a highly invigorating "workout" of the soft tissues and joints. Think of it as the yoga class where someone does all the work for you! While initially some of the stretches & points can feel a little challenging (rather like a rusty gate being opened for the first time in years), clients report that any resulting discomfort is of the 'good' variety, rather like an itch being scratched. 

Your treatment is brought to an end with a relaxation session, utilising the latest brainwave-entrainment technology to induce a state of deep meditation. It is an experience unlike any other & highly recommended! 

After your treatment is completed, over a refreshing drink of water or herbal tea, any findings are discussed & you and Ana will agree strategies for taking your healing forward, either in the form of further treatment or changes in lifestyle.

How will I feel after a TYM treatment?

Clients report feeling looser, more relaxed and energised. It is also common for you to sleep well and soundly after a TYM treatment!

After your first treatment, there can very occasionally be some slight muscle stiffness for a couple of days, as the body gets used to being used differently. Remember that TYM is a form of exercise, albeit a passive one, so the body needs to adjust in the same way as it would when you embark on any new form of activity. Keeping mobile, without subjecting the body to strenuous activity, and drinking plenty of water will minimise any discomfort.

What if I have regular TYM treatments?

Regular treatments can produce many benefits:
  1. Increased flexibility
    Passive stretching produces a deeper and more profound stretch than can be achieved on oneself. Over time the range of movement of a muscle can increase to a considerable degree, especially if you are supplementing treatments with a regular and sensible stretching regime of your own. Areas of the body that tend to see particular improvement are the pelvis, backs of the legs, neck, shoulders and back.

  2. Less injury
    Most injury to muscles occurs when a muscle is too tight to fully accommodate the demands placed on it, leading to a strain. More muscle flexibility will therefore reduce considerably the risk of such an occurrence.

  3. Improved recovery and performance
    The release of excessive tension in the muscles & the elimination of built-up toxins improves circulation to all areas of the body. A better blood supply means more nutrition amd oxygen for the muscles, resulting in greater muscle efficiency and increased rate of recovery from injuries when they do occur.

  4. Increased energy
    The benefits mentioned above all combine over a period of time to greatly improve energy levels, as tension in the body is reduced & the systems of the body function more effectively.

However, the greatest gift of this ancient healing art is increased self-awareness. An improved knowledge of the amazing machine that is your body, as well as the less tangible forces that influence it allows the individual to better maintain themselves as an investment for the future.


Location: Hitchin, Hertfordshire

Session Length: 2 hours

Cost: £70

Accepted methods of payment: cash or credit/debit card

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