The traditional massage of Thailand is considered a medical massage, applied to a system of energy meridians or "sen". The Thai traditions teach that there are an infinite number of energetic connections throughout the body, arranged into lines of energetic influence. The Thais consider ten of these lines to be the largest channels from which all others branch, and it is these ten "sen" that are treated in Thai massage.

     In a general treatment for wellness, all of the sen are worked equally to cultivate and promote even energy flow. The more specific therapeutic use of the lines involves additional treatment on one or more sen. The nature of the illness or condition determines what sen are treated, as they are all associated with having specific effects on the physical, mental and emotional selves.

     Acupressure is a healing technique that stimulates nerves through direct finger pressure along the surface of muscles and bones. This stimulation sends signals up and down the length of the nerve from that point, stimulating muscles, organs and other structures that it encounters along the way.

     Though a limited example, the physician's reflex test somewhat illustrates this. The kick that follows the mallet hitting your knee is a reflexive response, and it is through these kinds of responses that acupressurists stimulate the body to heal itself. However, instead of striking these points to get a "knee-jerk" reaction, practitioners use sustained pressure to stimulate them.

     These acupressure points are found all over the body, and are treated by practitioners of thai massage, shiatsu, tui na, and marma therapy among others. They are also used in acupuncture, inserting needles for more stimulation than what finger pressure alone can provide. To the right is one of sixty stone tablets housed at Wat Pho in Bangkok that depict the acupressure points of the body.

     For those who are too sensitive for stretching or acupressure, the Thai herbal massage is an alternative, using hot herbal compresses to stimulate the energy lines and points, while the herbs themselves also provide medicinal benefits. Relief from muscle soreness, tension and inflammation are just a few of the benefits of adding herbs to a Thai massage.

For more historical background, see History of Thai Massage at the Tao Mountain Association.