Waree Approach and philosophy about Massage and therapy
The Thai Traditional approach.
Thai traditional medicine wisdom
Thai traditional
medicine wisdom considered as a holistic medical system between the body, mind,
society and nature, which can be seen that Thai traditional medicine does not
focused only on physical therapy or specific treatments like Western medicine but
also on the health care of the whole body and mind on the individual level. And
also, correspond to the way of life and culture of the community or society. In
addition, it facilitates the balance of the ecosystem, natural resources and
environment.
Therefore, the wisdom of Thai traditional medicine must be the knowledge of the system of the community’s beliefs that are from experiences being adapted and maintained according to the natural environment and the social-cultural environment in terms of management, prevention, care and health treatment of Thai people have inherited.
The foundation or knowledge of Thai traditional medicine is the result of using wisdom adaptation to various situations. It is a wisdom from the experience of Thai themselves or sometimes from the outside that has been exchanged and transmitted, which influences the way of their life and a cultural exchange with other ethnic groups and being adapted to be in line with the Thai social-cultural context.
History of Thai traditional medicine wisdom
Thai traditional medicine is considered as national wisdom. It is a heritage inherited from our ancients. They are related to Thai society is a knowledge that has been observed, tested, selected, developed and turned into solving health problems and balancing on individuals health problems, society, and the environment also modified and updated to nowadays. Wisdom can reflect relationships in 3 ways:
1) The relationship between people and nature.
2) The relationship between people and society or community.
3) The relationship between people and the sacred things, which is supernatural.
Traditional Thai medicine is bound to such beliefs, including belief in supernatural power, superstition, astrology beliefs or even respect for nature. As can be seen from the sacrifice of the devas, the goddess, the forest god, the Mother Earth, etc. There was a trial and error, remembering the herbs leading to as a Thai folk medicine later, which is a medical practice caused by learning to test Thai herbs and also from traditional rituals and beliefs being combined with medical the experience eventually formed a local medical system.
Later, traditional Thai medicine was influenced by the outside, which is caused by the influence of Khmer, India, and China, causing exchange and integration in accordance with The Thai way of life, society, and culture, which influenced the modern times of King Jayavarman 7, evidenced by Arokayasaln, a spirit house found in Thailand and ancient textbooks including Khmer language texts.
Buddhism, Brahmanism and Hindu propagation from India Causing Ayurvedic medicine to influence and become the foundation of Thai traditional medicine. As can be seen from Medical texts or scriptures always begin to worship the Lord Buddha and also there is a reference to the medical master Chiwakakomarapat.
The influence of Buddhism, such as mentioning the 4 elements, namely soil, water, wind, fire, also appeared in the Tripitaka. And also, the influence of Chinese medicine includes evidence such as Phra Narai medicine textbooks, it consists of Chinese doctors, names or using Kot, which is a Chinese medicine in the elixir. Chinese medicine has an influence on drug formulations, not the theory and the principle of diagnosis like pulsating pulses are just tools for diagnosis. In addition, traditional medical theories include elemental theory, etiology, age, etiology, age, and etiquette. Those are the foundation of Thai traditional medicine. Therefore, it can be concluded that the foundation of Thai traditional medicine consists of:
1. Folk medicine system and the local medical system.
2. Buddhism.
3. Ayurveda from India.
4. Chinese medicine or Khmer medicine.
5. Traditional medical theory.
What makes Thai massage different from other types of massage?
From Waree's years of experience in this field, she has observed several misconceptions that foreigners often have. Therefore, Waree would like to present a new perspective to ensure mutual understanding before working together.
1. Thai massage should be performed with clothing on, not naked, except in certain cases where oil massage or herbal balm is used. The clothing should be loose and comfortable to prevent skin friction and avoid direct contact between the masseur and the client, ensuring professionalism and modesty.
2. Thai massage is performed on the floor, allowing the masseur to balance their weight effectively on the ground, which benefits their long-term health. This setup also facilitates stretches, adjustments, and various body movements required during the massage.
3. The posture, eye contact, and expressions of the masseur should remain professional and polite. The interaction should not be overly intimate or close to avoid any implication of sensuality.
4. The massage techniques applied may vary depending on the client's symptoms. Each masseur may have a unique style, methods, and knowledge that differ from one another. This contrasts with the Western understanding of massage, where the focus is often localized to the area of pain.
For example, in Thai massage, if someone experiences bloating, the masseur may focus on massaging the thighs to release trapped air, rather than directly massaging the abdomen. Similarly, for migraine headaches, the masseur may start by massaging the back lines instead.
5. Clients should not expect long-standing conditions to be cured in a single session. Masseur are not miracle workers. they use only their hands, not advanced scientific tools. Clients should not approach Thai massage with rigid scientific expectations, as the practice is rooted in the art of touch and intuition rather than modern scanning technology.
6. Come to a Thai masseur or instructor with an open mind. Nothing will help you if you arrive with a challenging attitude or expect the instructor to merge all the knowledge you have previously acquired to align perfectly with your understanding.
Please remember that no treatment or healer in this world is sacred if you done at first believe in the sacredness within yourself with your body, mind, and spirit.
What would it be like to take a class with a native teacher?
1. Understanding Thai Culture and Mindset
You should come with an understanding of the Thai cultural and historical context. Thailand has never been colonized, which means English proficiency may not always meet your expectations. Without the pressures of war or colonization, Thai people value peace, politeness, and courtesy, with kreng jai (consideration for others) being a hallmark of good manners. Humility is another distinct characteristic that makes Thais endearing. Recognizing these cultural traits fosters mutual respect and harmony during the short period of learning and communication together.
2. Thai Massage Principles and Approach
Thai massage relies on observing, listening, tapping, palpating, and noticing a client’s posture, communication style, and emotional state. Intuition plays a primary role, as does a deep connection through touch. This approach differs from the Western methodology, where evidence-based techniques are more common. Not all knowledge in Thai massage can be supported by concrete evidence, nor can it be used to draw absolute conclusions. Therefore, approach your learning with an open mind, ready to embrace these unique qualities from the outset.
3. Respect for Teachers in Thai Society
Thai society places immense respect on teachers, viewing them as parental figures. You should maintain a balance between your own individuality and the role of a Thai teacher. As a student, it’s important to behave in a way that aligns with Thai traditions and show respect by following the teacher’s guidance as a foundational step.
