Ancient Yogic drawing of the energy lines and chakras.
Theory:
How Thai Massage Works
The theoretical foundation of Thai massage lies in the concept that all of life at its most basic level is energy. This energy called Prana in Sanskrit (Chi in Chinese) exists in many forms from the extremely gross to the infinitely subtle and life is an interplay of these energies. Metaphorically a cosmic dance of Shiva and Shakti, Yin and Yang, the Sun and the Moon. Within the human body these energies flow along a network of channels or lines (nadis or meridians). In the Yoga tradition there are said to be 72,000 nadis. Each has a specific function and energy that it deals with. The three main lines energetically are the Sushumna (rising straight up through the center of the spine) and the Ida and Pingkala nadis which run on either side of the spine.
Health in eastern philosophies is regarded as a state of balance between these energies, where all the systems of the body, including mind and spirit, function in harmony with each other. And disease (dis-ease) is seen as imbalance or disharmony in this flow of energies. But beyond feeling good physically an enlightened definition of health encompasses feelings of vitality, strength, inner peace and joy.
Thai Yoga Therapy is a deeply healing and powerful combination of rhythmic massage, acu-pressure, deep stretching, gentle twisting, energy work and meditation all rolled into one experience. This work aims at stimulating the flow of healing energies within the body, opening the areas which are blocked and bringing the body, mind and spirit back into balance and harmony, for health, happiness and wellness of being.
These are two of the epigraphs, illustrating the energy lines, that can be seen at Wat Pho in Bangkok. They were etched in stone by order of King Rama III.
