"Nuat phaen boran", Thai traditional massage, or Thai massage, is a treatment technique that dissolves blockages and tensions. The masseur works with the forearms, elbows, hands and thumbs to treat pressure points and stretch different parts of the body.
The benefits of Thai massage:
New in Uggla's offer - Thai massage at Södermalmspraktiken!
On the 5th of October we have the great honour to welcome our new masseur Wilaiporn to our practice in Södermalm!
"I have been working in Thailand in Thai spas for over ten years in Thai, oil and facial massage. It gives me great pleasure when I can help my clients to lead a more relaxed and pain-free life." - Wilaiporn Namma
To see what times are available in Wilaiporn's schedule and book a Thai massage, classic massage or facial massage now - click here
Thai massage is a unique form of body therapy that combines deep massage with stretching. In Thailand, this technique is called 'nuat phaen boran', which can be translated as 'traditional massage style'. The origin of this form of massage can be traced back to India, where it was influenced by Ayurveda and Yoga. Legend has it that Shivago Komarpaj introduced this style of massage to Thailand over 2500 years ago.
"Nuat phaen boran" is a term often used to describe this type of massage in Thailand. There are several names that describe this art, including 'thai yoga massage', 'thai bodywork' and 'passive yoga'. These terms reflect the different techniques and influences used in Thai massage.
Chiangmai in northern Thailand is known as the heart of Thai massage. It is here that the oldest school of Nuat Boran, "The Old Medicine School", is located. This school became popular with tourists in the 80s and 90s, especially for its ten-day "Nuad Boran" program. Aachan Sintorn Chaichgun, a prominent master of Traditional Thai Ayurvedic Medicine, led the school for over 30 years.
Many people mistakenly believe that the short ten-day course represents the entire Thai medical tradition. In reality, a full education in this field takes about two years. The short course is only an introduction to this healing art.
There are several regional variations of Thai massage in Thailand. Despite the competition between these schools, the Thai government is trying to create a standardized training. Different styles focus on different techniques, such as stretching or acupressure.
The northern style, often known as 'Lanna' Thai massage, originates from the region around Chiang Mai. This style is known for its slow, meditative movements and deep stretching. Lanna massage focuses on releasing blockages along the body's energy lines and often includes the use of warm herbal compresses to relieve muscle tension and improve blood circulation.
The southern style, sometimes referred to as 'Bangkok style', is more intense and focuses heavily on acupressure. It uses the thumb, palm and sometimes even the elbow to apply pressure along the body's energy lines. This technique aims to stimulate blood circulation and release blockages within the body's energy channels.
The Isaan region in eastern Thailand also has its own version of Thai massage. This style combines elements from both the Lanna and Bangkok styles but adds its own unique techniques, often influenced by Cambodian and Laotian massage.
Historically, there has been a degree of rivalry between the different schools and regions when it comes to Thai massage. Each region has proudly claimed that their style is the most authentic and effective. However, this competition has also led to innovation, with each school constantly refining and developing their techniques to meet the changing needs of those they serve.
To preserve the rich tradition of Thai massage and ensure a high standard of practice, the Thai government has taken the initiative to create a standardized training program for Thai massage. This initiative hopes to preserve the authenticity of Thai massage while ensuring that practitioners have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective treatments.
During a Thai massage session, the recipient wears loose clothing and lies on a mat. The therapist uses a combination of hands, arms, legs and feet to apply pressure and perform stretching along the body's energy lines. No oils are used, but sometimes a heat compress may be used.
In Sweden, it is common for Thai massage sessions to last one hour, mainly due to the higher cost. But for those who want a longer experience, you can often book a two-hour session.