We know how fabulous yoga is for us…now combine all the fabulous health benefits of yoga and massage….et VOILA…..thai yoga massage. Chi - universal life force energy - is electromagnetic energy that flows through pathways called meridians through out every living creature. According to traditional Chinese medicine, Chi must flow freely in order to maintain physical, spiritual and emotional health. The massage is performed on a floor mat and each massage is a unique integration of stretching, twisting, pressing and palming over the entire body.
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Last week I experienced one of the most awesome and truly unique massages of my life - Thai Yoga Massage. As a fitness fanatic, I truly appreciate just how therapeutic a good massage can be, and how it really is an integral part of muscle and joint care.
We all know that a great massage reduces stress and really helps us relax and undo all those knots from competing in the Toronto rat race. There are a number of medicinal benefits we reap from massage:
-reduces muscle tension by loosening contracted, shortened and hardened muscles.
-improves blood circulation by stimulating nerves that dilate blood vessels to allow greater blood flow.
-Lymph circulation: We all hear about supporting our immune system - but what does that really mean? Lymph carries wastes and toxins away from the cells. Lymph is dependent on strong muscle contractions (another great reason to weight train!) to move through out the body. Massage improves muscle performance which supports our immune system.
-Improves mobility and range of motion of joints.
-Improves the skin by stimulation of sebaceous glands.
-Improves digestion and intestinal function.
We know how fabulous yoga is for us…now combine all the fabulous health benefits of yoga and massage….et VOILA…..thai yoga massage.
A little bit of history will help here.
Chi - universal life force energy - is electromagnetic energy that flows through pathways called meridians through out every living creature. According to traditional Chinese medicine, Chi must flow freely in order to maintain physical, spiritual and emotional health.
Thai yoga massage is over 2500 years old. The father of TYM, Shivaga Komarpa, was a friend and contemporary to the Buddha. It is a positively melodic mix of yoga, exercise, reflexology, acupressure, meditation and healing art. Loose clothing should be worn, the massage is performed on a floor mat and each massage is a unique integration of stretching, twisting, pressing and palming over the entire body.
Thai massage emphasizes releasing abdominal tension…something that most people have no clue of. According to Chinese medicine all of the major energy pathways in the body originate in the abdomen, near the navel. It is critical for the flow of chi that the abdominal area be unobstructed.
The thai massage practitioner must be carefully in tune with each client. There must be a metaphysical connection between the two so the practitioner can become intuitively aware of any discomfort or resistance from the client, be it emotional or physical. It is said the Thai practitioner work with an “open heart” and compassion, or metta (loving kindness). Thai Massage is the Buddhist practical application of loving kindness.
Gregory Dernis, here in Richmond Hill, is the Thai yoga massage practitioner who introduced me to this beautiful art. First experiencing the massage myself, and then watching him perform his art on others, made me see for myself that he really is in tune with his clients, and the massage is modified for each, whether they be more athletic, elderly, pregnant…..he really makes that metaphysical connection with each client to achieve that energy flow. Thai yoga massage can be a form of physiotherapy, and is also useful for those who can’t do yoga..so they may reap the benefits of yoga. It can also help you sleep better, through proper flow of energy. As Gregory says “You will have great feelings of peace, warmth and rejuvenation for days ahead.”
You can email Gregory directly at gdernis@zenflow.ca
May you get at least 60 minutes of exercise today!
Shira Litwack
LWMC, CNS, PT
www.fitfan4fun.com Shira@fitfan4fun.com
Toronto Fitness & Nutrition Consultant
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