This ancient form of Northern-style Thai massage is unique in that it combines gentle stretching, acupressure and applied yoga. Northern-style Thai massage is gentler than the Southern-style, which makes it more relaxing for Westerners who are not always comfortable with the harder acupressure of a Bangkok massage. The end result is the same though – as they say in Thailand, “Same, same but different.”
Thai massage differs from most other massage techniques practiced in the West in that the muscles aren’t kneaded – instead, there is a lot of stretching and pressure is used on the energy points to open them up and release blockages. This results in a massage that is both energising and relaxing at the same time.
The massage is given on a mattress on the floor and the receiver wears loose, comfortable clothing. It is suitable for people of all ages and flexibility because you are not taken beyond your personal limit. A less flexible person would receive gentler stretching and more work on their energy lines.
A Thai massage continues working for 3 – 4 days while the body’s energy re-balances itself, so its benefits are not over the minute the massage stops. Other benefits include improved flexibility, alignment and circulation, and better functioning of internal organs.
THAI FOOT MASSAGE AND REFLEXOLOGY
Most people find this massage/reflexology combination extremely relaxing. The feet are massaged to relax them and then the pressure points are worked using a wooden reflexology stick. Once again, the pressure is adjusted according to the client’s needs or wishes. Once the points have been done, the legs – from ankle to above the knee – are massaged and the energy lines worked. Unlike many other forms of reflexology, balms and creams are used, which makes it more relaxing and enhances the therapeutic effects of the massage.
This massage balances the body, improves blood and energy flow, as well as the functioning of organs. Foot massage is extremely popular in Thailand, as it is seen as a natural, healthy alternative to taking medication to deal with common ailments like headaches and stress.
I studied at the International Training School in Chiang Mai, where I completed 3 levels of Traditional Thai Massage, as well as a course on Thai Foot Massage and Reflexology. For more information, or to book a massage, call Debbie Morbin on
082 973 3708 or 044 382 3611.
1 hour THAI MASSAGE R200
45 min FOOT MASSAGE & REFLEXOLOGY R150
A HUGE BIG THANK YOU to Debbie for the 2 sessions of Thai massage…I’ve been walking on clouds for the past 3 days!!
Whenever in Knysna again, I will definately start my vacation with a session with her Thai massage first & then enjoy the rest of my stay…