The Art Of Thai Massage

Westerners are increasingly interested in customs from the East, and in our busy lifestyles we often look to Eastern remedies and therapies for release from stress and anxiety. 

Thai Massage, a new book by therapist Hans-Erik Petermann is an inspirational and instructional book which condenses this ancient style of massage into a one-hour session that works on all parts of the body, to improve blood circulation, promote good posture and keep joints supple.

Thai massage combines yoga, stretching, exercise movement and meditation with elements of acupressure and reflexology.  

This type of massage is convenient and can be done more or less anywhere - at home, in the office or outside - as both therapist and client remain dressed, and no oils are needed.  It can be quite vigorous though so it is important to know how to practice safely.

The introduction to Thai Massage compares Eastern and Western attitudes to healing, explaining how Eastern methods are less concerned with science fact and visible changes in health, but look at subtle changes and deficiencies in energy flow around the body, focusing on ten main energy lines known as sen.

The massage techniques are fully explained and illustrated step-by-step, with arrows to show the direction of movement, to enable readers to accurately and safely replicate the massage at home. 

Organised into five sections, the massage moves the client through lying on their back to lying on their side, then stomach, a seated section and the finish. 

Starting with work on the legs and feet, the massage progresses to the abdomen, arms and hands, back, shoulders, neck and head.

Thai Massage is aimed as a starting point for those interested in learning the basic principles and techniques of this therapy.  There are many variations and more advanced techqnieus which readers can develop later on, and the illustrated one-hour massage can be adapted to suit different environments - a quick coffee massage compared to a more leisurely and private session.

Also included in the book are tips on developing therapist-client trust, vital information for the therapist on maintaining a good posture themselves in order to prevent aches and pains, and guidance on meditation.

The fascinating history of massage combined with practical information and well-presented instructions makes Thai Massage a comprehensive and trustworthy introduction to this alluring therapy, allowing readers to explore the basics of the massage at home to provide a sense of relaxation and wellbeing for others.

The author, Hans-Erik Petermann qualified as a Thai massage practitioner and teacher at the Institute of Thai Message in Chiang Mai.  He has also spent time at the Wat Po Thai Traditional Massage School, affiliated to the famous Buddhist Wat Po temple, in Bangkok.

Thai Massage costs £14.99 and is available form all good bookshops. 

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