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Maneewan Chia y Max Chia - Traditional Thai Massage

Maneewan Chia y Max Chia - Traditional Thai Massage

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
338 views

Maneewan Chia y Max Chia - Traditional Thai Massage

Maneewan Chia y Max Chia - Traditional Thai Massage

Uploaded by

Lautaro Risso
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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‘Wraditional Nhat Massage” Maneewan Chia & Max ChiaWUAO THAT TRADITIONAL THA MASSEGt ‘1 mii mM he 248. 00 BAHT 260111Nuad Thai “Traditional Thai Massage” @EENESEM by Mancewan Chia and Max Chia Contributing Editors: Bob Savage, Valerie Meszaros, nobodie, ink Dr. George A. Sioris, Colin Penberthy and Sukachai Skulsuthavong Ilustrator : Thon Chandee Cover Design: Thon Chandee and Narapon Sompong Design & Desktop Publishing: Throngphon Boontakum Photographers: Thanya Treenutimitr and Nattawat Sukbumrung Clothing Designers: Rungtong Chainam and Krisna S. Nuphab Practitioner Models: Jasmine Jus, Christina Thomas, Ninlanon Virasti, Ravita Chairaj, Vilipda Surakul, Gaisong Mungma, and Supaleart Vinipormsawank Copyright © 2005 Maneewan Chia First Published March 2004 Second Edition March 2005 ‘The Knowledge Center 79/ Kotchasam Rd. Changklan, A.Muang, Chiangmai 50100, Thailand Tel : 0-5320-6995-98, Fax : 0-5328-4637, E-mail : [email protected] “All rights reserved, no part of this publication may by reproduced stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, recorded, or otherwise without the prior written permission by The Knowledge Center” ISBN 974-9517- 26-1 Distributed by D.K. BOOK DISTRIBUTOR CO.,LTD. G9 SENANIKOM 1, PHOLYOTHIN RD, LADYOA, CHATUCHAK, BANGKOK 10000 ‘TEL, 0-2849-9070-2 FAX. O-2042-9273 srwtdbookeentercom Email: sales @ dookcetr.com E-mail : dktoday @inet.co.th Printing at Nopburee printing, Chiangmai, Thailand Tel : 0-5327-9934, 0-5327-9117 Fax : 0-5381-4688 E-mail : [email protected] 1098765432Table of Contents ‘Table of Contents Words of Caution Acknowledgements . About the Authors . Preface ........ Praise for Nuad Thai . 3 Introduction to Nuad Thai “Traditional Thai Massage” Chapter 1. ‘Techniques of ‘Traditional Thsi Massage A. Direct Pressure 1. Thumb Press Techniques... a. Single Thumb Press Technique .. b, Double Thumb Press Techniques (1) Double Thumb Facing ...... (2) Double Thumb Walking ..... (3) Double Thumb Parallel . (4) Double Thumb Overlap . (5) Palm and Thumb Overlap . Finger Press Technique ... , Palm Pressing Techniques . ingle Palm Pressing ....... b. Double Palma Pressing . c. Butterfly Palm Pre: Pulling Technique a. Press and Puli b. Grab and Pull . Seooping and Pushing Technique a. Scoping with the Finger Tips . b. Scooping with the Edge of the hand . cc. Scooping with Two Hands d. Scooping and Pushing (The Keating Techniaue) s (1) Kneading with one hand : (2) Kneading with bath hands . = i6. Fist Hitting Technique 7, Patting Technique 8. Hand Chopping Technique . 9, Spiraling Technique . 10, Rolling Technique . 11. Rocking Technique 12, Shaking Technique ... . 13, Elbow Press Technique 3 14, Forearm Press and Roll Technique 15, Knee Press Technique 16. Foot Press ‘Technique 17. Buttock Press ‘Technique 18. Standing Press Technique . . 5 B. Indirect pressure (stretching, lifting and twisting) (see details in Chapter 7--page 102) Chapter 2 : The Energy Points, the Energy Lines and the Wind Gates... . .15 A. The Feet ....... i 15 1. The Sole of Foot and the Inner Ankle ............ ve l5 2. The Tendon at the Top of the Foot and the Outer Ankle . . .17 3. The Wind Gate of the Feet . eh 0 B. The Legs : 1. The Inner Leg Energy Lines 2. The Outer Leg Energy Lines .... 3. The Wind Gate of the Legs C. The Arms . - 1. Inside Arm Energy Lines ... 2. Outside Arm Energy Lines ah 3. The Elbow ....... 00.22 1 Aneramche 22 D. The Energy Points and the Energy Lines of the Hands, the Wrists and the Fingers . . E. The Back .. 1. The Energy Lines on the Bac : 2. The Energy Points on the Upper Back . . 3. The Waist .........0. 4. The Lower Back, the Buttock, the Hip and the Sacrum . . .26 F. The Scapula, the Shoulder, the Neck, the Head and the Face . 28 1. The Energy Lines on the Shoulder and the Neck .. 2. The Energy Lines on the Scapula (Shoulder Blade)... . 3. The Three Energy Points at the Base of Skull... 4. The Two Energy Points behind the Lower Ear Lobe 5. The Two Energy Points at the Temple ........... 6. The “Crown Point”... ....eeeeeeeeees Y 7. The Energy Lines from the Forehead to the Crown and the Back of the Neck 8. The Energy Lines of the Face . G. The Body Trunk 1. The Abdomen (see detai 2. The Chest ...... Chapter 3 Supine Position Part I (Lying on the back) Warm Up and Opening the Gates to the Legs A. Press Crossed Feet B, Massage the Feet . i C, Massage the Inner Ankle D. Massage the Outer Ankle ....... 2 E. Massage the Tendon at the Top of the Foot . 38 F. Open the Gates to the Feet ......... saietrp its See AESD, G. Working on the Energy Lines of the Legs sbemetap) 1. Working on the Three Energy Lines Inside the Lower Legs39 2. Working on the Three Energy Lines on the Inside of the 33 34 +S “at. 37 40 of the Lower Leg (See details in Chapter 4--page 43) .. ..40 H. Opening the Gates to the Legs . seal Chapter 4. Supine Position Part II (Lying on the back) ‘The Legs, the Arms, the Hands and the Face ...... 2 Ss Working on the Legs .........seeeeeseeeeeeeeee 43 431. Working on the First and the Second Energy Lines Inside the Leg ...---- 2. Working on the Outside Energy Lines of the Right Lee . ..45 3. Massaging the Tendon at the Top of the Left Foot .......46 4, Massaging the First and Second Energy Lines on the Outside of the Left Leg -.---+2+6++000 aT 5, Massaging the First and Second Energy Lines on the | Outside of the Left Leg (with palm press) ......-.... + 48 ines on the 6. Massaging the First and Second Energy | Inner Side of the Left Leg : 7, Stretching the Leg and Pressing the Thi en 8, Pulling the Calf Muscle ..... 3 9, Pressing the Outer Side ofthe Shin . 40. Massage the front (anterior) of the Thigh 11. Pressing the back (posterior) of the Thigh 12. Stretching the Inner and Outer Thigh 13. Open the Wind Gate to the Leg Working on the Arms and the Hands . 1. Open the Wind Gate to the Arm -.-- 2. Working on the Energy Lines in the Inner Part of the Arm. 3. Working on the Energy Lines Outer Part of the Arm . . 4, Massaging the Hand... cancers (1) Massage the palm. ... (2) Massage the back of the hand and the fingers with your thumbs ......600+0008ese0 (3) Pull and crack the fingers - (4) Stroke the fingers (5) Interlock the fingers . Working on the Neck and the Face 1, Massage the Neck and the Points behind the Lower Ear Lobe 2. Stretching the Neck . 3. Massage the Face and the Temple Bone 62 64 4. Massage the Ears Chapter 5 Side Position (Lying on the side) . Lying on the Right Side : A. Massage the Sole of the Right Foot B, Working on the Second and the Third Energy Lines (Inside Leg’s Energy Lines) C. Working on the Upper Bent Leg (Three Energy Lines of the Outer Leg) D. Massage the Buttock . , Massage the Waist and the Four Boer Lines on the Back . .70 F. Massage the Neck and the Head . ‘ G. Working on the Hand H. Stretching and Twisting . 1. Stretching the Waist . . 2. Stretching the Shoulder and the Arm . 3. Stretching the Leg ... 4, Stretching the Lower Back, Buttock, and Thigh - 67 Chapter 6 Prone Position (Lying on the stomach, face down) =. -.+----- 81 A. Massage from the Sole, up to the Leg, the Spine, and the Arm . : 1. Massage from the Sole up to the Thigh 2. Massage the Waist ..... 3. Massage the Four Energy Lines on the Back and the First and Second Energy Lines of the Arms ...... 84 B. Massage from the Waist up the Spine to the Shoulders and the Arms ..... C. Stretching and Massaging the Legs . Shove 'D. Stretching the Back with the Cobra Position .... 1, Kneeling on the Cobra 2. Sitting on the Cobra ........ 3. Standing on the Cobra. ........Chapter 7... Sitting Position .... ; Massage the Neck, the Shoulder, the Scapula, the Head, and the Face = or) 1. Massage the Three Energy Lines on the Neck, the Shoulder and the Scapula....... 0... .00000cseeeed 94 Massage the Four Energy Lines along both sides of the Spine....... 3. The Three Energy Points at the Base of Skull 4. Massage the Neck ......66..0c2ce00+ 5. The Points behind the Lower Ear Lobe . 6. Massage the Temple ..... sun; eae aati 7. Massage the Crown Point and the Three Energy Lines on the Head «0.00... 100 Stretching and Twisting Techniques i - 102, 1. Stretching Method One .........000000ccceeereee+ 102 2. Stretching Method Two . - 103 . Stretching Method Three +103 }. Stretching Method Four . - 104 eC rravaw . Stretching Method Seven . 105 106 107 Stretching Method Five . Stretching Method Six Stretching Method Eight sled wettest eyes i i , Stretching Method Nine ......... 0000-06 thts iography and Recommended Books ....+....-++++++ lll Words of Caution The techniques of the Nuad Thai “Traditional Thai Massage” described in this book have been accepted and used successfully for thousands of years by being passed down through individual instruction, A 800d practitioner requires strength, great skill of practice and control, which can only be obtained from correct training. The practitioners must not undertake the practice of Nuad Thai “Traditional Thai Massage” without Personal training from a certified teacher. Carefully follow the instructions and warnings. This book is a reference guide for practitioners who have been trained. Anyone who undertakes any techniques by the use of this book alone, without strictly following the instruction notes and warnings, may cause injury. The responsibility lies only with the reader who uses the techniques entirely at her or his own risk The techniques that are described in this book are not to be used as Substitute for professional medical treatment. All practitioners must practice with caution. Do not try to give any medical diagnosis, prescription or treatment for any physical condition, disease or any mental disorder ot illnesses. For these things a medical doctor, psychologist or other medical Professional should be consulted. This book is not intended ta train you to be a therapist. ‘The Traditional Thai Massage emphasizes balancing and strengthening, the “Qi” (Energy-see appendix in Authentic “Traditional Thai Massage” book) in the body so that people can heal themselves. Follow the technique for each exercise carefully, Always pay attention to the warnings in each chapter. Do not neglect the “Supplementary Practices” (see appendix in Authentic “Traditional Thai Massage” book), especially meditation, With people who have high blood pressure, heart disease, or a Benerally weak condition the practitioner should proceed cautiously. Pregnant women should not lie on their stomach. The Healing Tao Center, Inc. Cannot be held responsible for the Consequences of any practice or misuse of the information in this book.Acknowledgements We express our gratitude to the generations of Traditional Thai Massage masters who have passed their knowledge down for thousands of years. Especial gratitude and honor is deserved to the founder of Traditional Thai Massage: Dr. Jivaka Kumara Phaccha. Special thanks to our Traditional Thai Massage Masters: Ajarn Mui Yimpwattana, Khru Suvimon Ouaperaphuttana, Khru Yupa Sowat (Thai Traditional Massage School in Wat Pho), Khru Somjit Khonkum and Khru Anan Khonkum (The Northern Region Nursing and Relief Amstitute of Chiang Dao, Thailand). Also special thanks to Wang Klaykungvong Professional College (the King’s Project) for other massage material and special thanks to Ajarn Chatchai Tripayajun for his support. We express our gratitude to our parents for their care and gifts. Extra special thanks to our editors: Bob Savage, Valerie Meszaros, “nobodie, ink” and Colin Penberthy. Thanks to Throngphon Boontakum for his help in design and desktop publishing. Special thanks, to Thon Chandee for his fine illustrations and artwork. We would also like to express our special thanks to Khun Jariya Skulsutavong and Khun Sukachai Skulsutavong for their advice and support. Also, special thanks to Ajarn Pongsawart Niyomea, Khun Somying, Julia Jus, Cecilia and Pablo Caldas, Marge and Sandy Otto for their support. We express our appreciation to Photo Jai Studio and their on site team: the photographers Thanya Treenutimitr, Nattawat Sukbumrung and Aukkadate Teappean, our makeup artist. Special thanks to Khru Rungtong Chainam from Chiangmai Theatrical and Dancing College and to Ajar Krisna S.Nuphab from Youangdoy School of Dressing and Design. Also, thanks to our “Traditional Thai Massage” practitioner models: Jasmine Jus, Christina Thomas, Ninlanon Virasti, Supaleart Vinipormsawank, Gaisong Mungma, Ravita Chairaj, Vilipda Surakul, Agnes and Ladda Chou. Finally, we wish to express our gratitude to all “Traditional Thai Massage” practitioners and sponsors throughout the world for their support and work to conserve the system in the modern world. viii About the Authors MANEEWAN CHIA BSc. DSc. (Honor) Maneewan Himmakor Chia is the co-founder and Director of the Healing Tao Center, Ine. New York, USA. She was born in China to Chinese parents in 1944. After the Second World War and the Communist Revolution, her family left Mainland China and moved to Hong Kong where she spent her childhood. She and her parents later moved and settled in Thailand where she attended Mahidol University and eared a Bachelor of Science Degree in Medical Technology in 1971. Since her childhood, she has been very interested in Feng Shui and nutrition. She learned the entire secrets of the Chinese traditional herbal health food cooking (which she has named “Five Elements Nuttition” from her mother. This system has been passed down in her family over many generations. As Thailand is a Buddhist country, she has also been strongly influenced by Buddhist meditation as well as her study of Feng Shui and her later practice with Taoist qigong and meditation, _ In 1976, she married Mantak Chia and studied Taoist Qigong and meditation together with him for their entire marvied life. Together they created and founded the “Healing Tao” system of Qigong and meditation practice, which now has hundreds of independent teachers all over the world. In July 1977, she and her husband moved to New ‘York, USA. There she taught the “Healing Tao” system, as well as Five Elements Nutrition and Feng Shui and managed the Healing Tao Center, tne. She co-authored (with her husband) most of the Healing Tao books. She and Mantak divorced in 1998 and she now lives with their son Max, in Chiangmai, Thailand, Maneewan Chia was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree by The Open International University for Complementary pedicles and Medicina Altemnativa Institute of Republic of Sri Lanka 1995, ixMAX CHIA M.D. Max Show Chia Jitraphongsathom, Maneewan’s son, was born in New York, USA. in 1978. He was raised in Huntington, New York and attended school there. In 1994 he moved to Thailand with his parents. There he continued his education at Montfort College. In 1998, he attended the Faculty of Medicine, Chiangmai University, Chiangmai and earned a Doctor of Medicine in 2004. Currently (2004), he is practicing at Nakorn Pathom Hospital, Nakorn Pathom, Thailand. Since he grew up in the Healing Tao Center, Max was very interested in his parents’ work and was influenced by their Taoist practice. Beginning when he was eleven years old, he leamed most of the practices taught by his parents and became a Healing Tao Instructor. Since he was young, he has wanted to study medicine and use his knowledge to combine modern western medicine and traditional medical practices or “holistic fusion" (such as Traditional Thai Massage). Preface Nuad Thai - “Traditional Thai Massage”, is a well written and informative book. Using simple, clear and concise instructions, each massage technique is described step-by-step. Avoompanying the text are excellent photographs and illustrations. Important information is also given about the vital energy points, energy lines and wind gates This book will be a valuable guide and reference, not only for the novice, but also for the experienced practitioner of Traditional Thai Massage. Dr. George A. Sioris The Knowledge Center Chiangmai THAILAND.Praise for Nuad Thai ‘As someone who knows nothing about the technique of Traditional Thai Massage -- although I have experienced the benefits from it ~ 1 found this book very informative and easy to follow. The step-by-step instructions are all very clear and easily understood. The photographs and illustrations that accompany the text are, again, very clear and match the text perfectly. At no time did I find myself asking, “What are they talking about?”. I was able to follow the whole subject from start to finish with no problem. This is important because many books are filled with too much technical jargon and can be hard to understand. This can be off-putting to the potential new practitioner. Although I have no desire to practice the art of “Traditional Thai Massage”, at no time did I find the subject boring. 1 feel I have gained knowledge from this book, and the next time 1 enjoy a Thai Massage, | shall understand why the various techniques are used, and how my body benefits from them. This book is set to become a valuable guide and reference to not only the novice practitioner, but also the experienced one’s too. Colin Penberthy Chiangmai THAILAND. 3rd December 2546. xii se | “Traditional Thai Mz This therapeutic healing practice has existed in Thailand for more than a thousand years. The history of Thailand shows that the Thai people originated near the border of China. They migrated southwards, finally settling in Southeast Asia. Thailand has been influenced by many different civilizations and cultures. China and India are the two major countries from which many important valuable cultural and religious practices come. Chinese concepts of traditional medicine (including acupuncture and acupressure) and Taoist philosophy and practices both influenced the practice of traditional Thai massage. xiiiDr.Jivaka Kumara Phaccha is the legendary founder of Traditional Thai Ma: He not only inspired the art of massage, but he also contributed the “original knowledge” about healing herbs and minerals Nowadays, one can still find Indian Ayurvedic medicine in Thailand including herbal treatment, massage and steam baths. It is believed that DrJivaka Kumara Phaccha was a doctor from northern India. He is known to have lived at the same time as the Buddha, and he was the personal physician to King Phimpisar over 2,500 years ago. He is honored as the “Father of Traditional Thai Medicine” Before starting a massage the practioner always offers a prayer to honor and remember him. re. “Tox uslu Sane Inunsstole yanee” (Om namo Jivakakomaraphatjo Phuchaya) This is the prayer recited to show respect for Dr. Jivaka umara Phaccha called “Wai Khru”. Before starting the ‘assage the hands are brought together in front of the face and ‘e following words are recited: “Om namo Jivakakomaraphatjo “huchaya” (this is the short version of the prayer)-- I respect © compassionate Jivaka with good conduct. This knowledge about massage was passed down from ne generation to the next by word of mouth. Finally, the "actice, including detailed descriptions of Traditional Thai ‘assage, was recorded on palm leaves in Pali language, with Spect similar to that given Buddhist religious texts. These ‘anuscripts were kept at Ayutthaya (the old capital city of hailand.)In 1767, Ayutthaya was invaded by the Burmese. Their army destroyed many of the precious texts and pictures, leaving only some fragments In the early part of the Rattanakosin period, King Rama III of the Chakri Dynasty (2375 B.E--Buddhist Era or 1832 A.D.) ordered that all fragments of surviving texts describing the art of Traditional Thai Massage be carved in stones. 44 EY > + if + “Sample of the epigraphs that were carved in the stones by the order of his Majesty King Rama IIL of the Chakri Dynasty” SCM CC esac = Prema ce st Maes) Rajwaramahaviham)a royal monasteryAltogether there are 60 figures; 30 represent the front of the body, and another 30 the: back. Each figure shows the energy channels (called “Sen”) with the therapy points. All of these channels form the original basis of Thai Masse The channels indicate the pattern of invisible energy channels; with energy points quite similar to acupressure points in their position and in the way they influence the body and its functions. The vital force flows along Channels or Sen Traditional Thai Massage is based on the concept of vital life force energy that flows along channels in the body called “Sen” to specific energy points. Traditional Thai Massage focuses on the major channels, Ten of them are very important in Traditional Thai Massage. Chiropractic and physiotherapy practices are similar to Traditional Thai Massage but they do not focus on the energy channels and points in the body but are based only on the anatomical structure. Traditional Thai Massage is similar to reflexology and the concepts of stretching. It enhances the knowledge and experience of specialists in the use of therapeutic massage in treating certain diseases. Usually a teacher teaches therapeutic massage directly to a student and it takes a long time to learn properly.According to, Thai Massage theory, the human body remains healthy when it maintains its balance of energy in relation to the energy of the universe. Any imbalance in the flow will result in sickness Working on the energy points can relieve blockages and imbalances in the energy channels. When the energy flows and is in balance, your feeling of well being is restored. You feel good, energized, relaxed, and free from pain and stiffness. Traditional Thai Massage can be applied very shallowly for relaxation, but can also be applied very deeply to target a therapeutic effect. Because it can stimulate the flow of blood and lymph (tissue fluid), the pressure that is applied to the energy points and channels will release energy blockages and stagnation. The combination of pressing and stretching promotes the flow of energy, helping to maintain health and preserve youthfulness. There is freedom from stiffness, loss of flexibility and chronic pain and the energy levels are balanced which enables the person to release emotions. Muscles provide movement of the skeleton by contracting and relaxing. Emotional tension can cause a muscle to become tense, contract, and shorten causing stiffness, aches and pains. Tension also creates an imbalance of force on the spine, resulting in back pain, neck pain, and headaches which speed the aging process. Massage and stretching in traditional Thai massage, will cause the nervous system to release endorphins. The endorphins can relieve pain and produce powerful feelings of health and well being. Ideally, a whole-body massage will take from two to three hours to complete. This is enough time to work on the whole body and still maintain concentration. This does not mean that less time is less effective. It is better to spend time on a few parts of the body, so they can be treated properly instead of speeding up to try to do the whole body. A good practitioner or masseur selects the techniques and sequences according to the needs of the client. There are no fixed rales of thumb in Traditional Thai Massage; this would limit the structure and selection of techniques. Each one has its own style and uses different sequences and variations. Piss There are two main styles of “Traditional Thai Massage”. A. Chaleeysak Massage A native massage, the knowledge of which was passed down from one generation to another. This massage has evolved to provide a variety of techniques and body positions. The four main positions are: 1, supine position (lying on the back); 2. side position (lying on the side); 3. prone position (lying on the stomach or facing down), and 4, sitting position. Birecisnmenene This is a style modified for use at the ancient royal court by the royal physician. This knowledge was passed down from one royal physician to the next. The massage is more deferential, gentle, delicate, and precise. The “Rachasamnak Massage” has only three positions: 1. supine position (lying on the back); 2. side position (lying on the side), and 3. sitting position.oreo cree} Traditional Thai massage is the most effective and comprehensive system to energize and strengthen the body. It promotes the flow of energy in the energy channels (see energy and energy channels in the appendix) and the flow of blood in the blood vessels and capillaries as well as assisting lymphatic drainage. The pressure of deep massage will relax and release the adhesion of the fascia (the connective tissue that surrounds the muscles and organs) and allow energy to flow freely. Some people can be very stiff while others are flexible. The important thing is to learn how to recognize what degree of pressure and stretching can be applied to each individual. You must develop a feeling, ‘or the bodies of others. A skilful practitioner always knows exactly how such pressure and movement can be used without causing injury or pain 10 the receiver. Massage can affect people differently. Some people ate more sensitive than others. Some find that deep pressure creates discomfort and a great deal of pain. When you apply force, you should press with your body weight-lifting your body up and leaning forward very nntly while gradually increasing the pressure. Always observe the receiver to see how much pressure he or she can tolerate, releasing the force and moving back when appropriate. Finding the appropriate force clusing a massage requires adjustments to suit each individual.Pressure or force to attain the desired effect takes two forms in Traditional Thai massage: (1) direct pressure and (2) indirect pressure (stretching and twisting). A. Direct Pressure When force is applied with the thumb, fingers or elbow, a small area is covered and penetration into the body is more direct and deep. If force is applied through a larger area, such as the palm of the hand or the heel or sole of the foot, the force spreads out and does not enter as deeply. 1. Thumb Pre ss Techniques a. Single Thumb Press Technique Using the thumb pad, press down very gently, gradually increasing the force (adjusting the force according to the receiver's reaction) Normally this technique is used for massage on a point or in a circular motion. Sometimes it can be combined with the stretching techniques. b, Double Thumb Press Techniques (1) Double Thumb Facing Press the two thumbs with their tips together while resting the other four fingers of each hand on the receiver, (2) Double Thumb Walking This is double thumb facing ombined with a walking motion, Press 1e two thumbs with their tips together and move them along alternately in a alking motion. As one thumb walks, 1e other follows, moving back and forth jong the energy lines. This technique oosens the muscles and tendons and timulates energy flow. (3) Double Thumb Parallel Put the thumbs next to each other ith the other four fingers of each hand upporting on the opposite side of the mb and press both thumbs at the same ime. (4) Double Thumb Overlap Put one thumb on top of the other ‘0 provide more pressure. (5) Palm and Thumb Overlap Put the palm on top of the thumb to exert extra pressure.2. Finger Press Technique Press with the finger tips, this technique is ideal for performing a shallow massage by using an index finger or a deeper massage by using the middle finger. 3, Palm Pressing Techniques These use the palms of the hands to massage large areas of the body. Pressure can be applied and maintained for a few minutes without moving, Keeping your arms straight, slowly press down with the upper body weight on the arms. This technique will generate a strong and sustained pressure, and will achieve a result without fatigue. For a short duration, a rocking motion can also be applied. There are three different techniques of palm pressing a, Single Palm Pressing The Single Palm Pressing technique usually requires use of the palm or the heel of the hand. This technique is used to apply firm pressure to the major tissue masses of the body, such as the thighs, buttocks, and back. b. Double Pata Pressing The Double Palm Pressing technique exerts a concentrated pressure, Placing one hand on top of the other and keeping your arms straight, rock forward, increasing the pressure little by tittle with your body weight, ¢. Butterfly Palm Pressing The Butterfly Palm Pressing technique uses both palms with the heels of the hands touching and the fingers of each hand pointing away from each other. Pressing down with both hands spreads the force evenly over a wide area of the body.4, Pulling Technique a. Press and Pull This uses all four fingers of both hands to press and pull. b. Grab and Pull This uses the thumbs and the four fingers as forceps, to grab, squeeze, and pull. Pulling is done with the thumbs. cooping and Pushing Technique With the fingers of each hand supporting the action, use the fingers of both hands close together to press and scoop in, or press downward and scoop and push out, There are many variations in the | direction and use of this technique. a. Scooping with the Finger Tips b. Scooping with the Edge of the hand c. Seooping with Two Hands | d. Scooping and Pushing (The Kneading Technique) (1) Kneading with one hand Use the fingers to scoop and follow by pushing out with the heel of the palm, as if you were kneading a loaf of bread. (2) Kneading with both hands Use all the fingers of both hands 0 scoop, then push out with the thumbs s if you were kneading a loaf of bread6. Fist Hitting Technique This procedure is usually used in combination with the other techniques to spread the force out after performing the _ pressure techniques. Clench the hands into fists but keep them loose. Using the base or butt of the fists hit along the points or the energy lines after using direct pressure techniques. 7. Patting Technique Pat with very light force around the area with the palms. Patting is generally usec to spread the force after using the direct force techniques but is lighter than the fist hitting technique. 8. Hand Chopping Technique Bring the hands together, with the fingers spread a little bit and loose, then chop with the outer edge of the hands (the little fingers and the outer edge of the palms). Caution: When working on the kidneys, chop very gently. Never chop directly on bones. 9. Spiraling Technique The spiraling technique is the main technique for skin detoxification. Gently use the hand on the abdomen to loosen blockages under the skin and tissues. Begin by massaging with the middle finger or the three middle fingers together in small, tight, clockwise circular motions. The sequence for each point is to press in, spiral, and loosen the skin. Continue to create tight, clockwise circles outward from the previous points that you have been worked on. 0. Rolling Technique Press fimily with the palms and rotate them very gently. This is the technique usually used for belly, the joints of the cnees, ankles, and shoulders. 1. Rocking Technique Use the thumb and fingers of both vands to grasp the muscles while rocking forward and back.Technique Shaking with the Palms Usually this technique used for the belly. Use both palms press down and shake forward and back. b, Shaking with the Finger Tips Use either the index or middle fingers to press down on a knot or problem area. Move the fingers quickly up and down or from side to side. Use two or three fingers to cover a larger area. 13. Elbow Press Technique This technique is used to apply deeper pressure, to work on someone who is lange or fat or on some part of the body that is very muscular or thick such as the thighs, buttocks, and upper shoulders. In these areas, the only way to have an effect is to use the elbow pressing technique. The hard to reach areas where the use of the elbow would not be effective can be accessed with the thumbs or hands. This technique, however, makes use of the tip of the elbow to press straight down or to spiral using the elbow. Press very gently and slowly increase the force little by little (to prevent causing too much pain). 4. Forearm Press and Roll Technique The forearm press and roll technique is for rard pressure and large areas, It uses the edge of the forearm (between inside and outside of the forearm) 0 press down and roll to the outside of the forearm. Then move your forearm forward about half an inch, otess and roll as before. Repeat until the whole area has been treated. This spreads the force and uses less sressure than the other technique. 5. Knee Press Technique Knee presses are used mainly on the buttocks and the backs of the legs. This technique is also often combined with other echniques such as stretching. The nee press will give deep pressure and at the same time free the hands for controlling stretching,16. Foot Press Technique The foot press technique is perfect for applying pressure over large areas and thick muscles of the body such as the thighs, the buttocks and other similar muscular areas. Use the front of the sole of the foot, the arch or the heel. The force can be strong and penetrate deeply although the arch will provide less pressure than the others. Stretching some parts of the body, for example when pulling the feet, requires this technique. Pulling ageinst the foot will give a powerful stretch 17. Buttock Press Technique Sitting on your buttocks let your body weight press on the receiver. Caution: | The practitioner should not be bigger than the receiver, ! Do not practice this technique on areas above the waist more than two inches. 8. Standing Press Technique The pressure from standing can srovide deep penetration for the feet, ‘egs, buttocks, and back. Sometimes he back parts of the body are walked on, starting from the feet up to the back. The practitioner should be the same size or smaller than the receiver ind should not practice this technique above the waist. B @ Indirect pressure (s The stretching and twisting techniques are used as a controlled way to open the connections between the various parts of the body. These techniques have a high sensitivity and are extremely effective, vhich can result in a very powerful and positive result. A good oractitioner always knows exactly how far to take the movement vithout causing pain or injury. Traditional Thai massage is a complex nteraction between the practitioner and the receiver. These techniques vill allow some parts of the body to be reached which the other systems \cave untreated. The techniques used are pulling, pushing, lifting, haking and rotating to achieve the desired results. See details in hapter seven. retching, lifting and twisting) Caution: To prevent serious injury that might be caused by stretching, lifing, twisting, and moving in the wrong position, the practitioner must constantly be aware of the receiver's posture and position. Always observe the receiver's expression, talking the movement just a little further than the recipient is comfortable with. 1314 orn) “Traditional Thai Massage” is based on the concept of energy lines and energy points. The energy lines are a pattern of invisible energy channels. The energy points are similar to the Chinese acupressure points. The energy lines and the energy points cannot be adequately explained using western anatomical language. A. The Feet ‘. The Sole of Foot and the Inner Ankle a. The gate for the sole of the foot is located on the sole, about one third of the way between the base of the second toe and the heel. It is a point called “Bubbling Spring”. b. The three energy lines are located on the sole at (1) The inner edge of the sole, (2) The middle line, andl (3) The outer edge of the sole.c. There are another five 2, The Tendon at the Top of energy lines on the sole. ‘They run the Foot and the Outer Ankle from the front margin of the heel pad to the toes. a. There are two energy points Jocated on the top of the d. The six energy points are oot and another eight energy located at the arch of the sole. points between the grooves of the oes. b, There are four energy lines e. Another three energy n the top of the foot. They run points located around the inner from the middle of the ankles ankle. slown to the toe web (between the bones of the toes).c. There are three energy points around each outer ankle. (1) The first point is located in the depression between the Achilles's tendon and the outer anklebone. This point is the wind gate of the foot. (2) The second point is located in the depression at the inside edge of the outer anklebone (toward the big toe). (3) The third point is located in the hollow below and slightly to the front of the outer anklebone. 3. The Wind Gate of the Feet The gate at the outer ankle is a depression between the ankle and the heel. 1s B. rhe Legs i. The Inner Leg Energy Lines The energy lines run along the ‘ower leg from the ankle to the knee and along the upper leg from the knee to the roin and then to the hip. a. The first line starts above the aner ankle goes along the inner edge of the shinbone, between shinbone and fibula. Then runs under the knee and uns along the outermost edge of the highbone to the groin, b. The second line starts from the inner side of the inner ankle (a depression between the inner ankle and the Achilles’s tendon). It runs up the middle of the inner side of the fibula to end between the tibia bone (shinbone) ‘and the fibula (under the knee). Between the knee and the thigh there is another depression at the side of the knee. Start from this point run under the thighbone \p to the groin (about two and a half. inches down from the pelvis). ¢. The third line starts fiom the Achilles’ tendon and runs along the back f the calf muscle. Passing under the knee, it runs up the back of the thigh (vou can feel the tendon very clearly on the thigh) to the groin. ee The Inner Leg Energy LinesAst 2nd 3rd The Outer Leg Energy Lines 2. The Outer Leg Energy Lines The outer energy lines run along the lower leg from ankle to knee and along the upper leg from the knee to the groin and the hip, a. The first line starts at the outer edge of the ankle (opposite the heel), goes along the inner edge of the shinbone between shinbone and fibula, and runs under the knee. Then it runs along the outer edge of the thighbone to the groin b. The second line starts above the outer ankle, runs along the inner edge of the fibula bone (the space between the tibia and fibula) to the knee, and then runs under the knee to the thighbone and the hip. c. The third line starts from behind the outer ankle (between the outer ankle and the Achilles’s tendon), and runs along the middle in the back of the calf muscle (the outside of the fibula). Then it passes under the knee and runs up along the back of the thigh (in the middle of the muscle behind the thighbone) to the groin. 20° 3. The Wind Gate of the Legs The wind gate is located at the femoral pulse in the crease of the leg and the groin area Wind Gate of the Leg (Femoral pulse) G The Arms The energy line of the arms feed life force (Qi) to the body’s organs. Massaging will clear blockages and smooth the energy flow. 1. Inside Arm Energy Lines (1) The first energy line starts under the wrist behind the humb, runs along the forearm above the edge of the radius bone and along the edge of the humerus nn the upper arm and ends at the deltoid muscle. (2) The second energy line starts from the middle finger and 20es up to the inside of the wrist on the midline of the wrist) and runs between the radius and ulna bones to the armpit where it ends. (3) The third energy line starts on the inside of the wrist chind the little finger runs up the nner arm and ends at the armpit. Inside Arm Energy Lines 22. Outside Arm Energy Lines (1) The first energy line starts at the upper wrist in the depression behind the thumb and runs along the forearm above the edge of the radius to the outer elbow and then up to the shoulder. (2) The second energy line starts in the middle of the upper wrist (in the depression between the radius and ulna) and then runs along the inner edge of the humerus bone to the deltoid muscle, (3) The third energy line starts on the upper wrist, in the depression behind the little finger, and runs up to the back of the armpit. 3. The Elbow This energy point is in the space between the lower arm bone and the upper arm bone. 22 D. e Energy Points an e Hands, the Wrists a 1. There are eight energy points on the palm, 2. There are five energy lines a the palm, They run from the middle of the heel of the palm own to the fingers. 3. There are four energy lines on the back of the hand that run from the middle of the wrist and go besween the ligaments of the hand to the webs of the fingers. 4. There are four energy Points on the back of the hand. These are near the end of the finger’s webs.E. The Back 1. The Energy Lines on the Back The energy lines on the back continue from the third energy line of the outer leg. They start between the Achilles’s tendon and the outer ankle bone and run up the back of the legs (approximately on the: midline) to the lower part of the: buttocks, and then run up along the full length of the spine on both sides of the back. There are two energy lines on each side of the spine. The: inner energy line is about two finger-widths from the midline o the spine and the outer is four finger-widths. These energy lines are the main energy channels of the body. To stimulate the energy flow between the trunk and legs is important. A healthy back should be very flexible and be capable o bending and rotating in many directions. Back pain is very common and can be caused by many things. The techniques of “Traditional Thai Massage” are very powerful and can correct postural imbalances and release muscle spasm to achieve a healthy back. 24 The Energy Points on the Upper Back c. The first and second points are under the inside edge of the shoulder blades (If the receiver places their arm behind their back with the elbow bent and the back of the hand at the waist, the points will be more exposed and easy to reach). First and second points Third and fourth points ‘b. The third and fourth points: are located at the side of the spine between the tenth and eleventh ‘horaci¢c vertebrae. 2526 3. The Waist The waist or “Qi belt” is located above the hip and below the kidneys at about the fourth lumbar vertebra (in line with the navel), 4. The Lower Back, the Buttock, ‘the Hip and the Sacrum a. There are four energy points on the lower back. (1) The first and the second. points are located either side of the spine in the dimple at the top of the sacrum. (2) The third and the fourth points are located on both sides of the tip of the sitting bone (ischium). Energy Point on the Buttock Energy Points on the Buttocks b. There are two energy ooints on the buttocks. These two points are located in a depression in the fleshy part of the buttocks where the muscles cross. c.There are two small cnergy lines on the sacrum, These wo energy lines go along either side of the middle line of the sacrum and the coccyx (tailbone) 4. There is an energy point at the tip of the tailbone (coccyx). This point is located at the tip of he tailbone. Energy Point at Tailbone ‘Two Energy Lines 27F. The Scapula, the Shoulder, the Neck the Head and the Face The scapula, the shoulders and the neck are the connectio1 between the arms and the back, and the back and the head. Shoulde store tension, The blockage of energy flow in this area can cause mat problems such as headaches, shoulder pain and arm stiffness. Relievin shoulder tension will improve energy flow, energize and calm the mind. 1. The Energy Lines on the Shoulder and the Neck (a) The first line starts on either side of the spine in the Ya depressions below the base of the skull three finger-widths to the side of the midline of the spine. It runs from the neck down to the top of thi shoulder (ending at the middle of the trapezius muscle). (b) The second line starts on eithe: side of the spine, below the base of th skull two finger-widths to the side of th midline of the spine. It goes down bet the spine (at the seventh cervical vertebra) and the top of the shoulder. Then splits out to the shoulder and go to the back corner of the shoulder joint. (€) The third line starts below the base of the skull one finger-width to th side of the midline of the spine, goe down between the spine and the scapul to end at the fifth thoracic vertebra. The! end of this area (from the third to the fifth thoracic vertebra) is called “the point of Life and Death” Massage here helps prevent heart attacks and lung) problems. 28 2. The Energy Lines on the Scapula (Shoulder Blade) The energy lines start from edge of the upper scapula and go along the edge of the scapula and end at the armpit. 3. The Three Energy Points at the Base of Skull a, The first point is called the “Jade Pillow” in Chinese acupuncture, This point is located in the connection between the skull and the spine (between the first cervical vertebra of the neck and the occipus). b. The second and the third points are located on the back of the head on either side of the spine, it one finger width from the cervical vertebra where the neck muscles attach to the base of the skull (occipus). 29‘Crown Point 30 4. The Two Energy Points behind the Lower Ear Lobe These two points are located behind the lower ear lobes. We can locate this point by locating the depressions between the lower ear lobe and the jawbone. 5, The Two Energy Points at the Temple These two points are located in the cavities of the temple bones. 6. The “Crown Point” The “Crown Point” is located along the midline at the top of the head. If you draw a line connecting the tips of the ears, the highest point at the top of the head is the Crown Point. This point is called “Baihui” in acupuncture. It means “Hundred Meeting”. The traditional function of this point is to clear the senses, release the wind of the liver, calm the spirit and stabilize ascending “Yang Qi”. ‘The Energy Lines from the Forehead to the Crown and the Back of the Neck. (1)The first line starts between he middle of the eyebrows and runs p to the Crown Point. Then it goes along the midline of the skull down to he neck just below the base of skull (2) The second lines start from he end of both eyebrows, nearest the ose and run parallel to the first line pp to the crown and down to the neck 1st below the base of the skull. (3) The third lines start from the riddle of each eyebrow and run up to the crown and (parallel to the second ines) down to the neck just below the base of the skull. 8. The Energy Lines of the Face (1)There are three lines on the orehead, The first line starts at the orehead just below the hairline nd follows the hairline along both des to the temple bones. The second line is below the rst line about one finger unit. The third line is below the cond line another one finger unit. (2) There are another three nergy lines on the cheeks that also run along both sides to the temple bores. (3) Three more energy lines ‘orm the chin and run along both sides of the face parallel to the jawbone. 3G. The Body Trunk The trunk of the body consists of the chest (thorax) and the abdomen which are separated by a diaphragm. 1, The Abdomen ‘The abdomen is located at the lower part of the body trunk, which contains the stomach, intestines, and other organs. 2. The Chest ‘The chest is located at the upper part of the body trunk, below the neck and above the stomach. It contains the lungs and heart which are covered by the rib cage and sternum. Tntroduce your receiver 10 authentic Traditional Thai Massage with a warm up, by starting with a very gentle and simple massage for the lower part of the body. In this warm-up procedure, both feet can be massaged at the same time, or alternate each hand to massage both feet in a rocking motion. This exercise allows the receiver to prepare themselves to tolerate and cooperate with the massage. The warm up will also open the “gates” to the lower parts of the body. By pressing and releasing the pulse, the blood flow will be increased, causing friction between the blood and the blood vessels. This friction brings a nice, warm sensation down the legs. It will stimulate circulation, break down obstructions in the blood vessels, and promote retumn blood flow. When applying pressure, always start with light pressing and slowly increase the pressure. 33A good practitioner, masseur or masseuse performs the art with “loving Kindness”. Kneeling at the receiver’s feet with the receiver in the Supine Position, the practitioner starts with a meditative prayer called the “Wai Khru”. Bringing the hands together at the chest, bend the face down and forward and pray “Om Namo Jivakakomaraphatjo Phuchaya”, ‘This. action pays respect to the past generations of teachers and asks for guidance and help in dealing with releasing the physical and emotional problems in the receiver. The practitioner then centers themselves and works with concentration and awareness. “Om Namo Jivakakomaraphatjo Phuchaya”” don uskeSaneTnansitale ayae) A Press Crossed F With the receiver lying on their back, bring the receiver's feet together. 1. Pressing the right foot: Place the left foot over the right foot. Use the double palm press technique. Press very gently on the top of the feet, keeping your arms straight. Rock forward, using your body weight to increase the pressure little by little; then release. 2. Pressing the left foot: Place the right foot over the left foot and repeat the steps above. 34 B. Massage the Feet 1. Bring the feet together and press them downward. Then release. 2. Grasp the toes push and bend them upward. Then release. 3, Separate the receiver's feet and move them to point outward. Grasp the inside of the ankles and keeping your arms straight slowly press outward and down, Then release.4, Using the thumbs massage along the six energy points at the arch of the soles of both feet, or massage each side alternately with a rocking motion. Massage backward and forward a few times 5. Bring the feet together, press downward, and release, 6. Separate the feet and massage along the five energy lines on the soles of the feet. Start from. the front edge of the heel pad and move to the toes; massage both sides alternately with a rocking motion. Massage with the thumb along the first energy line to the big toe. Then return the massage to the front edge of the heel pad. 7. Massage each of five energy lines in the same way as the first . line. 36 f wre ssage The Inner Ankle 1, Using the thumbs press and cirele the inner edges of the inner ankles. 2. Then massage the outer edges of the inner ankles and circle around ‘them. 3. Bring the feet together, press downward, and release. assage the Outer Ankle 1. Pressing the three energy points on the outer ankle. Start from the outer edge of the ankle at the depression near the heel. Massage by pressing and rolling the thumb 2, Then repeat on the other two energy points. 37E. Massage The Tendon at the Top of the Foot Massage the four energy lines on the top of the feet, Start between the inner and outer ankle and work between ‘the bones of the toes down to the web of the toes. 1. Press the point mid-way between the ankles. 2. Then massage along the first energy line, between the bones of the toes, toward the little toe. When the little toe is reached, grasp and pull it (to release the wind in the joint) and then release. Continue the massage, returning to the ankle. 3. Massage all four energy lines and pull the toes, except the last, in the same manner as for the first tine. 4, When you reach the second and big toes, grasp the second toe, pull it, and release it. Then, grasp the big toe, pull it, and release it before returning to massage the ankle, 5. Bring the feet together, press down, and release. 38 F. Open the Gates to the Feet 1. Using the thumb, press the outer edge of the ankle in the depression near the heel. 2. Keep the arm straight and slowly apply pressure. You might feel (some) pulsing Count to 24 or 36. Then release and massage around the inner ankle. G Working on the Energy Lines of the Legs Separate the receiver's feet so that you can kneel between them. |. Working on theThree Energy Lines Inside the Lower Legs a, Using the thumbs, massage the ‘irst energy lines by pressing each leg sIternately with a (left-right) rocking ‘notion. Start with the thumb above the ‘ner ankles and the other four fingers, grab the outer ankle. Using the thumbs walk slong the first Jine, up to the knees (press cach Jeg alternately as you progress), and then back to the ankles. 39 Ue Jb, Repeat the thumb press and walking on the second energy line. c. Then repeat with the palm press on the first and the second energy lines. d. Grasping the Achilles’ tendon with the thumb, pull up. Follow the third line at the back of the calf muscle and massage up to the back of the knee. Then massage down, returning to the Achilles’ tendon at the ankle. 2. Working on the Three Energy Lines, on the Inside of the Upper Legs We work only on the middle energy line (second energy line). The other-energy lines will be discussed in Chapter four, a. Starting from the knees, use palm pressing and press on the middle (second) line with the palms. b. Walk inside of the upper leg, with a rocking motion. Press each leg alternately as you progress. Walk all the way up to the groin and back to the knee. “= 3, Working on the three Energy Lines on the Outside of the Lower Leg (Will be discussed in Chapter four) 40 H. Opening the Gates to the Legs The purpose of “Opening the Gate” is to exchange old blood with ew blood and increase the flow of Qi to the legs. Press on the femoral sstery to shut off the blood flow to the legs. When the pressure is cleased a flush of warm blood will run down the legs. 1. Slowly move your palms from the thighs of both legs up the reases at the groin area. 2. Press the outer edge of the palms down in the groin area and feel he femoral artery pulse. 3. If the receiver is large or fat: It can be hard to feel the pulse Press the heel of the palm down to feel the femoral artery pulse, Then nove your knees and feet backward urtil your body is straight. 4, Hold the pressure steady; when you can feel the pulse, adjust the vressure on each side until the pulses are equal on both sides. 5. Hold the pulse to the count of 36 or 72. Caution: De not practice this technique without direct instruction and supervision, or on someone who has a vireulatory problem such as thrombosis, varicose veins, high blood pressure, or heart disease, AL eaonce In this chapter some of the exercises use the same energy lines as mentioned in Chapter three, but with ifferent positions and using techniques, which are more forceful and penetrate deeper in to the body. This is possible because the massage is concentrating on one point and because the receiver's body has already been prepared by the earlier warm-up massage. When you apply pressure, always start with light pressing, and slowly increase the pressure. Always observe and ask the receiver for feedback, especially when the exercise reaches maximum pressure or stretch. Start by kneeling on the side of the receiver. When finished with the leg, arm and hand on one side, repeat the same procedure with the other side. Working on the Legs Ist 2nd = 3rdCaution When are you working on the legs, bypass the knee, between three finger-widths below the knee and one finger-width above the knee. Do not massage ihe knee. le the Leg The receiver lies on their back. Kneeling by the left side of the receiver, start by bending the opposite (right ) leg. Working on the right leg; (1) Using the Double Thumb Facing Press Technique, massage the sole of the foot, Press with the tips facing each other. Press both thumbs together along the edge of the sole. (2) Using the Double Thumb: Facing Press Technique massage the first and second energy lines of the inner leg. From above the ankle of the lower eg go up to the upper leg at the groin and back to the ankle. 44 (3) Repeat the process, this time using the double palms pressing technique. From above the ankle go up the lower leg and tiigh to the groin, then back to the vikle. (first and second energy lines) (1) Put the receiver’s right eg straight using your left hand, old the receiver's right foot and ush it downward, 45Ist 2nd (2) Using the right palm and the palm pressing technique, press along the outside leg, from above the ankle up the lower leg and thigh to the groin. (3) Then press backward to the ankle. 3. Massaging the Tendon at the Top of the Left Foot The four energy lines on the top of the left foot start at the middle of the upper foot between the ankles and run toward the toe webs between the bone of the toe, 46 (1) Using the thumb press and circle technique massage the first energy line toward the little toe. Then massage back to the ankle. (2) Massage all the energy lines in the same way. Massaging the First and Second Energy Lines on the Outside of the Left Leg (1) Using the Thumb Press Technique or the Double Thumb Facing Press Technique, massage on the first energy line, (2) Start from above the ankle and move up the lower leg (do not massage the knee). (3) When you reach the thigh, use the Double Thumb Parallel Press Technique (Put the thumbs next each other, the other four fingers supporting below and press both thumbs together) press along the thigh up to the hip. (4) Retum back to the ankle, again bypassing the knee. This time using the Thumb Press Technique or Double Thumb Facing Press Technique on the lower leg down to the ankle, (5) Repeat the procedure with palm presses on the first and second energy lines. Li a7leg, lift the knee up. Then using your right hand push the knee to lean on the other leg. (2) Using the palm pressing technique, press on the first and second energy lines on the outside of the bent leg from above the ankle and move up the lower leg (bypass the knee) (3) When you reach the thigh, hold the knee with your left hand and using the right palm press the thigh all the way up to the hip then back to the foot. e First and Second n theInner (1) Using your right hand, pull the knee back and push the leg flat to the floor. (2) Using the palm pressing technique, with the left palm press the inner side of the left leg. Starting from the lower leg above the ankle move up the thigh and groin, then back to the lower leg and ankle. 4s. 7. Stretching the Leg and essing the Thigh Tethod one (1) Sit between the receiver’s legs. Bend the receiver’s left leg, and hook your right foot under their left thigh just above the knee to support the leg. (2) Bend your left leg and place the heel on the receiver's inner thigh just above the knee and next to your right foot. Your right hand should be holding the receiver's left leg above the ankle and your left hand holding the receiver's right leg. (3) Straighten your left leg to press the inner thigh and pull with both hands. Relax and bend your left leg moving your foot toward the groin. Straighten your Jeg and pull again with both hands. (4) Repeat this procedure until you reach the groin (about three times), then reverse direction and move back to the knee. 49Method two (1) Lift the receiver's left leg up and use your right foot to support it, (2) Put the front part of the sole of your left foot on the back of the thigh (the tendon), just below the back of the knee. Your right hand holds the receiver's ankle and left hand holds the foot. (3) Straighten your left leg to press the back of the thigh and pull on the receiver's leg, Then release and bend your left leg to move the foot down toward their buttock, repeat the press and pull. (4) Move your foot down about three times and then move back. 50 8. Pulling the Calf Muscle (1) Kneel facing the receiver's left leg. Place the receiver's left foot down on the floor with the knee up and hold their foot between your knees. (2) Using the four fingers, press and pull the calf muscle, use both hands in order to alternate the procedure from side to side of the calf muscle from below the knee down to the ankle, Then move back. 9, Pressing the Outer Side of the Shin Using the left hand hold the knee. Using the right hand press the outer side of the shin with the thumb press technique, from the knee down to the ankle. Then reverse back to the knee. 10, Massage the front (anterior) of the Thigh (1) Using four fingers, press and pull the front of the thigh, using both hands to press and pull alternating from side to side from above the knee up to the groin then move back.32 (2) Interlock the fingers of both hands. Put your clasped hands above the knee on the top (anterior) of the thigh. Tighten the clasp and press on both sides of the thigh, then release. 11. Pressing the back (posterior) of the Thigh Using the double thumb facing press technique, press below the knee along the back of the thigh (the third energy line). Press down to the buttock then back up to the knee. 2. Stretching the Inner and Outer Thigh (1) Kneel down on your left knee between the receiver’s legs and parallel with the re right leg. (2) Bend the receiver's left leg and slide the foot into your right groin area, supporting the knee with your right hand, (3) Using your left palm, press along the inner margin of the thigh (first and second energy lines), from the groin to the knee and then back. ers (4) Put the receiver's left leg back down with the foot between your knee and swing the receiver's left knee toward the other leg. (5) Using your right hand, and the palm press technique press along the outer margin of the leg (first and second energy lines) from above the ankle up to the thigh and hip, and then back. Put the receiver's leg down straight and kneel by the side, (1) Press the edge of your palm down to the groin to feel the femoral artery pulse, then place the other hand on the top of the first vand to exert extra pressure. (2) Keeping your arms traight, rock forward, increasing hhe pressure from the body weight ittle by little, count 36 to 72 pulses count your own pulse (between 0-60 seconds), then release. 53Working on the Arms and the Hands \ i 1, Open the Wind Gate to the Arm (1) Straighten the receiver's left hand out and with your right palm: hold their palm. Press your left palm on the shoulder (Deltoid region). (2) Adjust the pressure until you feel the pulse, hold for 36 to 72 pulses or count your own pulse: (between 30-60 seconds), and then: release, Working on the Energy Lines in the Inner Part of the Arm (the first & second energy lines on the inner arm) Massage the first and the second energy lines of the inner arm, (1) Using the double thumb parallel press technique. Put the thumbs next to each other, with the other fingers supporting from below. Press along the inner part of the arm (second energy line), starting from the wrist working up \o the armpit and then move back. (2) Using the double thumb facing press technique (two thumbs with their tips, facing each other, ‘he other fingers supporting), press both thumbs together along the nner part of the arm (second energy line). Again start from the wrist working up to the armpit and hen move back. (3) Then, using the palm ress technique, press along the Snner arm (first and second energy ine), start from the wrist working 'p to the armpit and then move back, 554. Massaging the Hand (1) Massage the palm. Insert one of your little fingers between the thumb and the index finger of the receiver's hand. Insert your other little finger between the receiver’s little and ring fingers. Using the ring, middle, and index fingers of both hands to support the receiver’s hand massage the receiver’s palm with 3, Working on the Energy I ines Outer Part of the Arm Tur the receiver's hand so that the palm is face down. Note: Because of the way the bones in the arm move, the first both neente & second energy lines cross in the middle of the lower arm. at eth: energy points of the palm. Start (1) Using the double thumb from the two points (1) and then parallel press technique, press go on to points (2) and (3); next along the second energy line from move the thumbs out to points the middle of the wrist work up: (4). Then work backwards to (1). 7 between the radius and ulna and Repeat a few times. 1) then alongside the humorous bone up to the deltoid muscle, backward and forward. (b) Massage the five energy ines of the palm. Start from the middle of the heel of the palm 4 " (2) Then, using the pal snd work towards the fingers; press technique, press on the fi nassage all the five energy lines. and second energy lines along outer arm, backward and forward.(2) Massage the back of the hand and the fingers with your th bs. (2) Massage the four energy lines on the back of the hand. From the middle of the wrist go down the finger’s webs (between the ligaments of the hand). Massage with both thumbs, using the other fingers of both hands to support the palm, press and rotate half circle. Massage from the middle of the wrist along the bone and the ligaments toward the fingers. (b) Massage the four energy points on the back of the hand near the end of the finger’s webs, (3) Pull and crack the fingers. Pull and crack the fingers to extend, relax and get the wind out from the finger joints. Gently pull each finger. You might hear a cracking sound. However, in some cases, some or all of the fingers will not crack. Do not exert extra force or repeat the pulling. (4) Stroke the fingers Press the base of each finger firmly and stroke the pad all the way to the finger tips, (5) Interlock the fingers With one hand holding the forearm under the wrist, interlock the other hand with the fingers of the receiver. Then pull the fingers. Repeat the same procedure on the leg, arm and hand of the other side. 39—— « W 1 Massage of the neck and the face can be done in the “Sitting Position” or the “Supine Position” If you massage the face in the “Sitting Position”, you should skip techniques No.3 “Massage the Face and the Temple bone” and No. 4 “Massage the ears” described below, 1. Massage the Neck and the Points behind the Lower Ear Lobe (1) Kneeling behind the receiver's head, put one hand under the head: and the neck for support. With the: other hand use the thumb press technique, massage the muscles of the neck up and down. Then change hands and massage the other side of the neck, (2) With both hands still supporting the head and the neck, free the thumbs to massage the points behind the lower ear lobes just above the jawbones (a small depression crevice when the jaw meets the skull) 60 Stretching the Neck (1) Place the hands under the ase of skull. Grasp the base of ne skull and slowly pull toward ou and hold for a few seconds, nen release. Repeat a few times (2) Place your right hand under the base of the skull and tne other hand under the receiver's chin, Using equal and very gentle force with both hands turn and wist the head into the resistance of the muscles (about 45°)toward hhe hand that holds the chin and oull toward you. Hold for a few seconds, release, and repeat on he other side Caution: 1. Do not over-stretch the neck, always start very gently and slowly increase the pressure. 2. Do not use this technique with the elderly or persons with osteoporosis. 63. Massage the Face and the Temple Bone (1) Place your fingers on the temple bone area. Press and massage both sides of the temple. (4) Press the middle point between the eyebrows and move sliding out along the eyebrows toward the temples. (5) Repeat the same procedure as above with the lines on the cheeks. (6) Then massage the lines |) om the chin with th fingertips. (2) Place your thumbs on the receiver's forehead below the hairline and place the other fingers at the temple bone area, Press and roll both temple bones with the fingertips. (3) Press both thumbs and move sliding out to the sides (by following the direction of the arrows) to the temple on each side. Repeat the other two lines.4, Massage the Ears (1) Rub both ears by rolling the soft tissue between the thumb and the fingers tip. (2) Put the tips of your middle fingers in the receiver's ears, move and spiral them in to massage inside the ears, (3) Press your fingers to create suction, hold for a few second and release. Or you can use the palms to press the receiver's ears, hold for a few seconds and release 64 Side Position (Lying on the side) In the “Side Position”, the massage will stimulate the energy flow between the trunk and legs. It also works on the four energy lines located to the sides of the spine. A healthy back should be very flexible, and be capable of bending and rotating in many directions. Back pain is very common and can be caused by many things. But the techniques of Traditional Thai Massage are very powerful and can correct postural imbalances and release muscle spasm to achieve a healthy back. The receiver lies down on one side, when that side has been massaged, the same procedure is used on the other side. 65Lying on the Right Side Let the receiver lie down on their right side, and bend the upper leg (eft leg). Massage the leg nearest you (right leg) first A. Massage the Sole of the Right Foot (1) Using the double thumb pressing technique, massage the medial arch of the foot. «fils (2) Sit on the floor and with the receiver’s right foot on your left lap. Massage the sole with your elbow, press and roll. Working on the Second and the Third Energy Lines (Inside Leg’s Energy Lines) 67(1) Using the double thumb. pressing, technique press on the side of the Achilles’s tendon, calf and inner thigh (third energy lines of the inner leg). (2) Massage all the way up to the groin, then back to the ankle. (3) Repeat with the palm pressing (second and third energy line of the inner leg), from the lower leg up to the thigh. Press up and down. ‘ ye orking on the Upper Bent Leg hree Energy Lines of the Outer Leg) Vork on the upper bent leg (left leg) Ist 2nd 3rd (1) Using the thumb, massage around the outer ankle of the bent leg. (2) Using the double thumb pressing technique, press the first, second and third energy lines of the outer leg, from the lower leg up to the thigh then to the hip and buttock. 68D. Massage the Buttock Massage the buttock by massaging the extension of the third energy line up to the buttock and the hip joint between the sacrum and the hipbone. Press the thumb around the buttock or use the elbow. Push down at the hipbone towards the buttock to release tension. Massage the Waist and the Four Energy Lines on the Back The energy lines of the back are the main channels of the bodys Work on these lines will stimulate energy flow between the trunk and legs. The energy lines on the back continue from the third energy line of the outer leg up the back of the leg to approximately the midline of the lower border of the buttocks. It continues up the back along the full length of the spine on both sides. There are two energy lines on each side of the spine. The inner energy line is about two finger-widths and the outer line is four finger-widths from the midline of the spine. (1) Using the double thumb pressing technique, press on each side of the spine from the lower back (lumbar), waist, upper back, and up to the shoulder, Massage along the four energy lines up and down, (2) Using the thumb press technique massage around the scapula. nmF Massage the Neck and the Head (1) Using the thumb press technique massage the neck with the thumb kneading on one side, supporting the neck with the other four fingertips. (2) Massage the three points under the base of the skull (between the neck and occipus). (3) Massage the area behind the ear: n (4) Massage the temple with the thumb, moving the thumb in a circle on the temple bone (5) Scrape the skull with the fingertips (the same as shampooing the hair), 23G. Working on the Hand (1) Lift the arm up straight and using the thumb press on the outer arm (the first energy line), from the upper arm, to the forearm, and the wrist (2) Using the thumb, press on the inner arm (the first and the second energy lines), from the wrist to the forearm, and upper arm. Energy Line of the Arm (3) Lifting the receiver’s left arm over their head, place the palm flat on the floor above the head. Push the arm and the hip to stretch the upper arm and. the side of the back. : (4) Using the palm, press along the upper arm. Energy Line of the Arm 14(5) Repeat using forearm press and roll on the upper (©) Lay the left arm beside the body and with your left hand hold the receiver’s left wrist. Using the palm, press the outer arm, from the upper arm down the forearm and the wrist. Then move back to the upper arm 16 H. Stretching and Twisting 1. Stretching the Waist (1) Put your right hand on the receiver's left shoulder and the left hand at the outside of the knee. (2) Push the knee forward and the shoulder downward in opposite directions, 2. Stretching the Shoulder and the Arm (1) Press your knee on the inner thigh of the receiver and put the receiver's left hand on their right shoulder, (2) Clasp the receiver’s right hand in your right hand and press their buttock with your left hand. (3) Pull the clasped hand by leaning your body backward to twist the waist and stretch the arm and shoulder. 3, Stretching the Leg Method one (1) Press your left foot on the back of your receiver’s left thigh, just above the fold behind the knee, holding their foot with both hands. (2) Push the receiver’s leg toward the buttock to stretch the leg. (3) Release and move your foot slong the thigh, repeating the procedure above. ”In this chapter, we concentrate on strengthening the spine, Some of the exercises work on the same energy lines described in chapter five, but in a different position and using different techniques. Massage of the energy lines on both sides of the spine will have positive effects on many of the body’s organs. The massage outlined in this chapter also stimulates energy flow between the trunk and legs. 80 81The receiver lies in the “Prone Position” (on the stomach, face down), ‘The practitioner can kneel on either side of the receiver. 1. Massage from the Sole up to the Thigh. (1) Start with the leg nearest you (i.e. the right leg, if you kneel on the right side of the receiver). (2) Using the double thumb facing press, massage the middle line from the sole all the way up to the knee, when you reach the thigh change to using the double thumb parallel press up to the buttock (3) Then massage back to the sole with palm presses. (4) Repeat the same procedure on the other leg. 82 2. Massage the Waist The waist (Qi Belt) is located above the hip and below the kidneys, about the fourth lumbar vertebra (level with the navel). (Using double thumb pressing, press on both sides of the spine. (2) Move along the waist and press both thumbs away from the spine to the side of the body. 833. Massage the Four Energy Lines on the Back and the First and Second Energy Lines of the Arms (1) Using the double thumb press, work on each side of the spine from the lower back (lumbar) to the waist, then the upper back and up to the shoulder. (2) When the shoulder is reached, change to using the palm press and press on both sides of the shoulder, upper arm, forearm and down onto the back of the hand. Ist 2nd 8 F-., lines of the Arm (3) Then reverse direction with the palm pressing all the way back to the arm, shoulder, upper back, waist, and lower back. Kneel with your knees on the receiver's buttocks (with your feet between the receiver's legs). (1) Use the butterfly palm press and press from the spine to the sides along the waist (Qi belt). (2) Continue to press on both sides of the spine from the waist up to the shoulder. When you reach the shoulders, move the receiver’s arms to the side of their body with the palms facing up. Press on the upper palms, forearms, and the palms (3) Return back down to the arm, shoulder, upper back, and waist.1. Kneel between the receiver's legs Start on either side. (1) Bend the receiver's left leg across the back of the other leg (making a “No.4”) With your right hand holding the heel of the bent leg, use your left palm to press the outer thigh, calf and the ankle. Then move back along the leg up to the thigh, 86 87 (2) Bend the left leg up (make a “No.1") with the right hand holding the receiver's left foot. Using the Jeft palm, press the shin of the lower leg, up and down. (3) Repeat exercises (1) and (2) with the other leg. (4) Bend both legs up (making a “No.11") and push the toes downward to flex the sole of the foot. Release, and push the toes toward the buttocks and press down(5) Cross the bent legs (making a letter “X”) and push the feet downward. Re-cross the legs in the opposite direction and push the feet downward again. 2. Kneel by the side of the receiver Assuming youare starting on right side of the receiver with the right leg still bent (You can start on either side). (1) Slide the fingers of your left hand under the receiver's right knee. Use your left arm to support the lower leg and pull the knee up, (2) Use your other hand to press from the lower back up to the middle of the back and back to the lower back. As you press the back pull the knee up more. 88 89 3. Stand between the legs of the receiver Start on either side. (1) Bend the receiyer’s left leg and hold the receiver's left ankle with both of your hands. With your right foot, step on the inner thigh of the receiver and pull upward. Move your foot backward and forward along the thigh. (2) With your foot still on the receiver’s inner thigh, use your right hand to hold and push the receiver’s foot toward the waist. Using a rocking motion move your foot along the thigh, backward and forward, while pushing the foot towards the waist | 4. Repeat b. and c. on the other side| 2. Sitting on the Cobra (1) Bend the receiver's legs upward about 90° and interlock the receiver's hands behind their head COP Creo momen oan Pee UT mere RUT OMe OTC (2) With you sitting on the soles of the receiver's feet, pull the shoulders up. Hold for ten seconds. (3) Relax, and let the receiver down. (2) Lean back very slowly, using your body weight to lift the receiver's upper body up off the mat, Hold for ten seconds, (3) Relax, and let the receiver down. eB 913, Standing on the Cobra (1) Stand on the receiver’s thighs, just below the buttocks. Grasp the receiver's wrists while the receiver grasps your wrists. (2) Lean back very slowly, using your body weight to lift the In this chapter we work on the energy flow between receiver’s upper body up. Hold for ten seconds. the trunk of the body, the shoulders and the head. The scapula (3) Relax. and let the receiver down. (shoulder blade), the shoulders and the neck are the connection between the arms, the back and the head. Shoulders store tension. The blockage of energy flow in this area can result in many problems, such as headache, neck and shoulder pain and arm stiffness. Relieving shoulder tension ‘vill improve energy flow as well as energize and calm the mind. Work on this area is more convenient in the sitting position. Many people feel discomfort if you try to raise their shoulders more than an inch. This stretching should only be performed on those who are reasonably flexible. Massage the Neck, the Shoulder, the Scapula, the Head, and the Face The receiver sits with legs crossed or sit on their heels, and the practitioner stands or kneels behind.1. Massage the Three Energy Lines on the Neck, the Shoulder and the Scapula (1) With the thumb, massage the first and the second energy lines on the neck down to each shoulder and onto the scapula, then return back.

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