Workshop Details

What in the West we call traditional Thai massage is known in Thailand as Nuad Bo’Rarn. Nuad is a Thai word that translates as “to touch with the intention of imparting healing.” Bo’Rarn is derived from Sanskrit and translates as “something ancient and revered.” Historians date this traditional medical practice from approximately 500 BC. Thai massage fulfills the Buddhist principle of bringing spiritual philosophy into everyday life and work, allowing both practitioner and recipient an opportunity to experience the four divine states of mind: loving kindness, compassion, mental equanimity, and vicarious joy.
This workshop is an immersion into the practice of Thai massage. An extensive curriculum in northern (Chiang Mai) style will be taught and practiced. The course will focus on the meditative aspects of this traditional healing art, with emphasis on proper body mechanics. Combining aspects of yoga, acupressure, and assisted stretching, Thai massage is a healing and deeply relaxing form of bodywork.
Practitioners learn to work with their feet, knees, forearms, and elbows, as well as with their hands. Thai massage is practiced slowly, on a futon or mat placed on the floor, with the client dressed in loose-fitting clothing. No oils or lotions are used. Come and join this comprehensive immersion into an ancient healing art. This workshop is especially useful for those in the helping and healing professions in working with their clients and patients.
Required reading: Gold, Thai Massage: A Traditional Medical Technique, 2nd edition.