An illustrated guide to the enriched and advanced practice of Thai massage.

It provides guidelines for an effortless and effective practice, including body mechanics, respiratory patterns, flowing movements, gradual pressure, and exercises to enhance sensitivity and strengthen intuition during work.

It offers ways to secure and improve classical techniques that are often performed incorrectly, explains broad therapeutic concepts behind individual techniques, and discusses the awareness and sensitivity with which they should be performed.

It answers common questions, clarifies misunderstandings, and presents ways to work with focus and at a deeper level, with more grace, ease, and efficiency. THIS GUIDE OFFERS A DEEP AND IN-DEPTH VIEW OF SIGNIFICANT AND OFTEN IGNORED ASPECTS OF THIS WORK.

Many of these concepts and techniques also apply to table massage, physical therapy, yoga, and other healing arts. This book guides the reader through the conceptual, spiritual, and practical approaches behind effective bodywork.

A whole section is dedicated to breath awareness for massage, movement, and daily activities. The assessment guidelines assist the therapist in working with others based on their physical appearance, pre-existing conditions, and elemental predisposition.

Exercises are presented to enhance sensory skills and intuition, and to discover, guide, and release blockages in the body. Twelve important Thai massage techniques that are often taught and performed incorrectly are described in detail.

Other chapters offer ways to create customized sequences of practice and to transition from one technique to another with ease and grace. Finally, the chapter on medicinal herbs discusses the preparation, use, and benefits of herbal compresses, poultices, balms, oils, and baths, providing easy recipes for all these treatments.

This manual contains information that has never before been revealed in print. Full of exercises and ideas to help therapists evolve their skills in bodywork, it uncovers fundamental principles leading to effective therapy and explores traditional Thai massage with an emphasis on intention, awareness, sensitivity, and spirituality.