What is Yoga Massage?
Yoga Massage (also known as Thai Yoga Massage or Nuad Boran in Thailand) is designed to improve one's self-healing by encouraging the flow of energy through (sen) lines in the body. This free flow of energy is known as Chi in China or Prana in India.
What is Yoga Massage and how does it work?
Yoga Massage is performed on the floor with a practitioner and is presented like a rhythmic dance aimed to increase energy levels and relaxation. The practitioner guides the beneficiary through a series of postures and breathing exercises while gently using their hands and fingers to glide along the body's sen lines and pressure points. The types of movements expected include palm pressing, walking and circling; thumb pressing, walking and circling; finger circling; elbow pressing; loose fist knocks; forearm rolls and chopping. The practitioner is there to help the beneficiary with the movements as most people find that they are more flexible and can hold certain body positions more securely with assistance. Breathing techniques are an important factor in yoga massage and the benificiary should remember to exhale when being stretched. There is no oil or creams involved and it is advisable to wear comfortable, light clothing. Practitioners advise a delay period of 2 hours between eating and receiving the massage.
What is Yoga Massage good for?
Yoga Massage therapy may be valuable to those suffering from stress, depression and sore muscles, trapped energy or as part of a regular health maintenance. The results of yoga therapy are achieved by repeatedly stimulating the 72,000 sens lines found in the body, increasing movement of joints, stretching and applying Hatha Yoga asanas - another type of yoga technique used to bring harmony into one's life. In return, the therapy can help alleviate muscular tension, improve circulatory problems, the nervous system, flexibility, vitality and boost the body's immune system.
The history of Yoga Massage
Yoga therapy is believed to have originated from the Kingdom of Siam (today known as Thailand) many thousands of years ago as one of the three main branches of the ancient Thai Medical system, although its therapeutic elements are also believed to be rooted in the ancient Indian healing tradition of Ayurveda. This therapeutic massage is said to have been founded in Northern India by Doctor Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha who treated the Buddha among others. When the Buddha died, monks travelled to Southeast Asia with Ayurvedic doctors in the 2nd or 3rd century BC. The Thai people became accustomed to the spiritual and physical benefits of meditation and till this day, it is still practiced respectfully in hospitals and temples in Thailand. According to ancient Buddhist teachings, the Yoga Massage practice aims to incorporate the four divine states of the mind: compassion, loving kindness, vicarious joy and equanimity. This has led to Yoga Massage also being described as 'meditation in movement'.
How much does a Yoga Massage session cost?
The cost of a one-hour Yoga Massage session is around £40 although this depends on where the therapy takes places and the experience of the practitioner.
Also see Vodder Method, Massage, Lymph Drainage Massage, Marma Massage, Massage Course, Medical Massage, Thai Massage, Swedish Massage, Tui Na Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Holistic Massage, Zen Chi Aerobic Massage, Remedial Massage, Massage for Men, On Site Massage, and Sports Massage.