Thai Bodywork

I am so excited to be able to offer this wonderful  healing experience to you.   I have been teaching yoga for 5 years and have seen it help so many people physically, spiritually and emotionally.  Thai Yoga/Therapeutic Bodywork takes it to another level.  Originating in Thailand , Thai Bodywork was created to assist the body into various yoga positions for deep stretching that cannot be obtained on your own.

Using my thumbs, palms, elbows and feet; to create rhythmic compressions and soft tissue manipulation.  I use Techniques that move, stretch and twist the body while you are positioned on your back, front, side and sitting cross-legged. Thai Bodywork reduces muscle tension and stiffness. The overall effect is one of deep relaxation, rejuvenation,  physical and mental well-being.
The benefits of Thai Yoga are far-reaching …

The postures have a strengthening effect on the nervous system through their non-tiring physiological activities that bring about poise of body and mind.

The stretches result in the lengthening of the fascia and muscles, and encourage greater movement than would be possible unaided. This provides traction and mobilization for the spine and joints, which in turn improves circulation and increases range of motion.

Additionally, the acupressure techniques work on the deeper layers of muscular fascia, stimulating lymphatic drainage, relieving pain, and bringing a feeling of nurturing and general health to the receiver.
Improved Circulation – Thai yoga massage works in a similar way to regular yoga poses. As participants hold a pose, blood slows to targeted areas. When the yogi releases the pose, fresh circulation rushes back into the area. Twisting and inverted Thai yoga massage positions, such as plough, shoulderstand and spinal twist, are particularly effective in refreshing circulation. According to “Yoga Journal,” inverted poses can help with lymphatic drainage, the return of blood to the heart and digestion.

Release of Mental and Emotional Stress – The Substance Abuse and Mental Health, or SAMHSA, division of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, lists both yoga and massage therapy as alternative approaches to mental health care. In Thai yoga massage, as well as other massage schools, the release of emotional or mental stress occurs through the manipulation of muscles. Thai yoga massage also incorporates meditation, which can help participants manage stress and let go of negative emotions. Richard Seven emphasizes that Thai massage is more than a physical science. The therapist works to carefully help the participant find the connection between exterior, or physical issues, and interior issues of the mind and heart.

Boosted Immune System – The Lotus Palm School of Thai Yoga Massage lists a boosted immune system as one of the benefits of Thai yoga massage. The American Massage Therapy Association lists several scientific studies which support the claim that participants can improve their immune systems through Thai massage. By invigorating the nervous system and releasing toxins through improved circulation, Thai yoga massage students increase their immunity to diseases. Many yoga students and yoga schools also believe that the practice of yoga poses can improve immunity and lead to longevity.
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/135880-benefits-thai-yoga-massage/#ixzz1tBfEvGrT

Almost 9 months ago, I was diagnosed with 8 bulging discs; 3 in my neck and the rest in the lower back.  At that time, I began going to a chiropractor and having great faith in the accomplishments that  he was making by adjusting my back despite being told I was eventually going to end up having surgery.

Around the same time, I was able to attend yoga classes.  I am very flexible and felt there wasn’t a whole lot this would do to help my back, although I would enjoy the peace of yoga  and attending the class with people with whom I had become friends .  I was wrong!  I did enjoy the class and the camaraderie, but,  by attending the classes and being faithful to continue the visits to the chiropractor, I have been able to build on the core muscles which hold my frame in a much better position than before.  I have been able to strengthen muscles that I had not realized were becoming weak.  I was flexible, and am more so now.

Recently, I have added Thai yoga to the equation.  Although I do go up and down on the sliding scale of bad days and good days, I have found that this really has improved the overall soreness and stiffness that I have experienced.  Before every session, I am adjusted, then I am stretched and manipulated through Thai yoga, and then I begin the regular yoga session.  This practice seems to have really helped  with comfort and strength especially in dealing with everyday living.