thai foot massage

Thai Foot Massage

Thai foot massage is part of the ‘Traditional Thai Medicine’ (TTM) system which is divided into three segments, Herbs & Medicine, Massage, and Meditation. It is classified as Ayurvedic Medicine and has been in use for thousands of years. It is an integral part of Thai culture and recognised as a spiritual practice in temples and hospitals. Originally used for relaxation and health the treatments were carried out amongst family and friends. TTM was founded by Jivaka Kumarabhacca (c.500B.B.) and his spirit is invited to guide the practitioner in the treatment. Evolving over the centuries it is unique in its own right with Chinese and Indian influences. In the East feet are the focus of worship. In Hinduism when feet touch the earth it facilitates the earth’s energy to nourish body mind & spirit.

How does Thai Foot Massage work?

Thai Foot Massage is a healing art, which is food for the body mind and soul. The philosophies of health vary greatly from East-West. This foot massage also incorporates the lower leg and stimulates the internal organs of the body via the reflex points of the feet. It helps balance and harmonise the ‘SEN’ or energy lines. Conventional western medicine has no scientific evidence that these SEN lines exist or are beneficial to health and this highlights the difference. About 7000 nerve endings are present in the foot and so it is thought that there is a scientific correlation that they stimulate an impulse along the Peripheral Nervous System. The Central Nervous System then interprets this impulse and creates a motor response in the corresponding organ. The belief of TTM is that the body has energy channels which when blocked cause stagnation resulting in illness. These imbalances when worked break down and disperse. The pseudo scientific approach of continuing these energy lines into the legs enhances the continuation of energy flow to the body adding a powerful dimension to the therapy by encouraging energy flow from the feet into the body.

What does a treatment involve?

The treatment has the emphasis on massage using a wooden stick, rather than the points, promoting general health and wellbeing. This massage is invigorating and stimulates the various points in the process. It is refreshing and revitalising, but deeply relaxing. Working to the heart/breathing rate and matching the depth of pressure.

What are the benefits?

Improves circulation of lower limbs and assists lymphatic drainage
Boosts the immune system
Enhances the flow of oxygen to all the internal organs
Calms the mind and improves concentration
Increases mobility and muscle flexibility
Assists with insomnia
Breaks down and disperses foot imbalances
Reduces stress and encourages relaxation

thai foot massage