THAI YOGA

HEALTH & WELLNESS THAI YOGA MASSAGE AND IMPROVED QUALITY OF LIFE

By Camisha Muhammad

Thai Yoga Stretch is an ancient alternative healing modality believed to have been started by a doctor from northern India, known as Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha, over 2,500 years ago. But it isn’t really a massage in the traditional sense. It’s, what I like to call, assisted stretching. It also differs from traditional massage in that the recipient doesn’t have to undress. In my opinion, it’s best on a comfortable floor cushion where both the receiver and practitioner can move freely. The practitioner guides the recipient through a series of movements designed to stretch the limbs or apply pressure on the muscles.

What makes Thai Yoga Stretch so therapeutic? Well, it has to do with our physical and energetic body, the fascia, and the energy meridians. Fascia, a tissue casing that surrounds and holds every nerve, blood vessel, muscle, organ, and bone in place, plays an integral role in our flexibility and quality of life. The more active a person is the “looser” their fascia and vice versa. When we experience stress, our fascia tightens, which can manifest in stiff neck muscles, knots, headaches, etc. Your shoulders are probably tight right now—let go! Stress has been shown to be detrimental to our health in so many ways. So, the more we can relax, the better we feel, and in turn, the more active we can become. Additionally, since we are energetic beings, we want the flow through our energy centers, or chakras, to be at optimal levels. Remember the physical body and energetic body should operate together in harmony. Any imbalance in either body can cause one to experience an array of symptoms.

A typical Thai Yoga Stretch session last for an hour and begins with a consult. The practitioner can create a very relaxing atmosphere with spa music, aromatherapy, and dim lighting. Or it can be practiced impromptu in a park or on the beach. It’s so versatile that, in Thailand, practitioners set up on the street out in the open! The goal is to enjoy your session no matter where you are.

Not only does Thai Yoga Stretch relieve pain and muscle tension, but recipients also experience reduced headaches, increased energy levels, and an improved range of motion, circulation, and lymphatic flow. Thai Yoga Stretch is a great way to not only improve your flexibility but also to reduce your stress levels. Thankfully, it is becoming more and more available in our communities.

Follow me on Social Media if you’re interested in learning more or to book a session. Goddess Touch Health and Wellness Fitness Coach, Reiki & Thai Yoga Practitioner IG: GoddessTouchHW